Jennifer began her dance training at Ballet Omaha under the direction of Robin Welch. She danced at Omaha Theater Ballet for three seasons, performing in Balanchine’s Valse Fantasie, Norman Walker’s Prayer and Fantasy, The Nutcracker, and Coppélia. She also performed with Opera Omaha, the Omaha Symphony, and the Shizuoka Ballet Festival in Japan.
Jennifer danced as a member of Ballet Quad Cities for six seasons, performing in several of Johanne Jakhelln’s works including Lyric for Strings, Edith in From the Pages of a Young Girl’s Life, the Violet Fairy in The Sleeping Beauty; Matthew Keefe’s The Nutcracker; and the Pas de Trois from Danses Concertantes. Jennifer has taught dance throughout the Midwest. She currently still teaches in the Iowa City area and has recently received her yoga certification. Jennifer holds both a BA degree in mathematics from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she graduated summa cum laude, and an MFA in dance from the University of Iowa.
What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I like to read and cook. I also enjoy taking naps when I get the chance.
What is your favorite dance role, and why?
I enjoy roles that I get to create with the choreographer because it allows me to add my creative perspective in the mix.
Have you ever had an injury? How did you deal with it?
Yes, I have torn my hamstring before. I took time off, went to see a physical therapist, and have continued my education of the body so that I can avoid injuries.
What was your most fun vacation?
I love to travel, so I usual can find something positive in every trip no matter the circumstances. I believe my most treasured trips are times spent with good friends and family.
What part of the season are you looking forward to the most?
I think it will be an excellent season all around.
What’s your favorite local restaurant? What do you like to order?
I grew up in Omaha, but have been away for 8 years. There are so many good restaurants in Omaha, it is very hard to choose. I do like Garden Café because I love their desserts and potato casseroles.