Stacey Tookey teaching at Montclair State University.
Photo courtesy of montclair.edu
Stacey Tookey, an Emmy Award-nominated dancer and choreographer, is teaching several master classes at the Department of Theater and Dance this fall. Tookey’s experience as a choreographer includes working for the hit television shows “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing With the Stars,” as well as being an exquisite teacher within her craft.
Tookey’s 23 years of talent allowed her to work with music artists such as the incredible Celine Dion during her show “A New Day” in Las Vegas. Tookey developed her passion for dance from her mother as a teenager.
When asked about her dance instructor and choreographer wisdom helping her evolve as a teacher, Tookey stated: “I feel that all experiences, both good and bad, have given me insight to help guide dancers I come in contact with. It’s all about passing on information, training and inspiration towards the next generation.”
Tookey has brought her dance expertise to Montclair State University from Los Angeles, California. She was introduced to Montclair State’s deputy chair of dance, Professor Lori Katterhenry, from her dance company’s lighting designer Jorge Arroyo.
Tookey’s students and their thirst for knowledge has made her teaching experience within Montclair State University enjoyable and fun. She encourages them to “explore who they are as performers.”
With her determination and dedication to make a difference in the dancing world, Tookey is currently working on a brand new musical titled “Dancer,” which opens in Toronto next year and is based on the classical and contemporary styles.
Tookey’s advice for other aspiring dancers around the world is not to dance for the money or the fame, but to dance from the heart and remember what made you fall in love with it to begin with. Her words weren’t only addressed to the dance universe, but to everyone with strong interests any area.
