Joseph "jo" Blake: BIPOC, Queer Choreographer, Dance Educator, and Activist
Joseph "jo" Blake (he/they), an emerging force in the dance world, epitomizes the power of artistic expression through movement. A graduate of the University of Utah (BFA,2003) and the University of Washington (MFA, 2017), jo's academic and professional journey has equipped him with a unique perspective on dance, infusing his work with profound creativity and purpose.
Artistic Journey and Contributions
jo's career spans national and international stages, performing across the United States, Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia. Notably, his tenure with the Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company from 2003 to 2013 showcased his versatility, interpreting works by choreographers such as Charlotte Boye-Christensen, Carolyn Carlson, Bill T. Jones, Susan Marshall, Wayne McGregor, Alwin Nikolais, Shirley Ririe, Doug Varone, Joan Woodbury, and many others. His performances were celebrated for their intensity and grace, captivating audiences worldwide. As noted in an article, “In jo Blake’s last performance with Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company (2013), he moved with an intensity and grace that left the audience spellbound. His ability to convey complex emotions and tell a story through movement was unparalleled”.
joBdance. | a conceptual experience
In his current role as the Director of joBdance. | a conceptual experience, jo leads an innovative interdisciplinary company that blends dance, sound, and visual arts. This collective thrives on collaborative creativity, producing immersive works that challenge and engage audiences. A recent example of their work is COINCIDENCES, a collaborative multimedia installation with Utah-based artists Cam McCleod (photography), Dylan Totaro (film), and Trevor Price (sound), that features film, photography, and live performances thanks in large part to Weber State University’s Shaw Gallery and Dumke Arts Plaza after its world premiere with the Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company. Premiered in its immersive form in Ogden, UT, from October 2023 to April 2024, this piece exemplifies jo's commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional dance and creating experiences that resonate deeply with viewers.
Community Engagement and Social Justice
jo's dedication to community-based engagement and social justice is a cornerstone of his career. He has been involved in numerous projects that aim to make dance accessible to diverse groups, including the YCC Family Crisis Center, Minding Motion for Graceful Aging, Yoga Behind Bars, and Mark Morris's Dance for PD. His work in these areas highlights the transformative power of dance as a tool for healing, empowerment, and social change.
Academic and Professional Recognition
Currently, jo serves as the Dance Program Director and Assistant Professor of Dance at Weber State University in Ogden, UT. His contributions to the field have been recognized with multiple accolades, including the 2023 Exemplary Interdisciplinary Collaboration Award, the 2021 WSU Presidential Award for Community-Engaged Faculty Member, and the Ogden City Arts 2021 Mayor's Award for the Arts. Additionally, he is an Advisory Board of Trustees Committee Member of the Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company and an active member of the Ogden City Arts Advisory Committee.
Endeavors and Impact
jo's work continues to garner attention and accolades, and his influence is felt both within and beyond the dance community. He has collaborated with distinguished artists and companies, including Senga Nengudi, Stephanie Liapis, the University of Washington's Chamber Dance Company, RawMoves, Tandy Beal and Co., The Penguin Lady, and NOW-ID | Now International Dance Co. His recent choreographic and performance opportunities have taken place in prestigious venues and festivals, including the American College Dance Association's Regional Conference, Dumke Arts Plaza, Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company, University of Utah, Westminster University, and Weber State University.
