DOMINIC ASKEW, company member (HE/ HIM)
Dominic was raised in Buffalo, New York. He began his dance journey at the age of nine, studying various techniques at Spezio’s Dance Dynamics under the instruction of Michelle Spezio Ferm, Bill Thomas, Kelly Burwick and many others. During his time at Spezio’s Dance Dynamics, Dominic cultivated his versatility by working with and learning from beautiful, experienced artists, and being an assistant teacher/choreographer at the studio. He has participated in various performances, competitions, and dance organizations such as The Joffrey Ballet summer intensive, The School at Jacob’s Pillow summer intensive, The New York City Dance Alliance summer intensive, Boston Dance theaters winter immersion project, and Complexions Contemporary Ballet summer intensive. After graduating high school, Dominic moved to New York City to pursue studying at The Ailey School through the independent study and scholarship program, training in techniques such as Horton, Graham, Dunham, and more. During his time at The Ailey School, he had the prime opportunity and greatest pleasure to perform an excerpt of “ For ‘Bird’- With Love” choreographed by Alvin Ailey in the opening gala for The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s City Center Season. Dominic also performed in works choreographed by Sonia Dawkins, Brice Mousset, Martina Viadana, and Emerick Ligonde. During his time with Houston Contemporary Dance Company, he has performed in creations by brilliant choreographers including Yue Yin, Norbert De La Cruz, Alexander Anderson, Brandon Coleman, Andrea Dawn Shelley, Yoshito Sakarabu, and Joe Celej. Dominic is inspired by the simple idea that where we are is where we are supposed to be and that reminds him to stay present, receptive, and grateful. This is his motivation when teaching the next generation how to navigate a healthier dance experience.