MARKUS SHIELDS
Hip Hop
Markus Alden Shields began dancing when he was
17 years old. Since his first class, his first instructed movement, Markus
began to fall in love with this art. His studio director quickly noticed a
spark in the young dancer and encouraged him to begin creating his own
choreography. Thus, just one year later Shields was instructing advanced
classes and choreographing at a first place award-winning, competitive
level.
While Markus developed his versatile style
through the instruction of students from many studios in his hometown, he
studied ballet and jazz at Grand Rapids Community College.
On Season 4 and Season 10 of the hit dance
show “So You Think You Can Dance?” Markus’ choreography was recognized and
highly favored by producer Nigel Lythgoe and the rest of the esteemed
judge's panel. He has twice competed through the entire “Vegas Week” and
received a spotlight for national recognition of this awesome achievement.
Markus has trained in Grand Rapids, MI, with
a select few of his city’s finest and in Los Angeles, CA with top industry
choreographers in the styles of hip-hop, jazz funk, house, and popping &
locking.
While represented by MSA Talent Agency as
dancer/choreographer in Los Angeles, Markus has starred in commercials for
JW Marriott and Amtrak. He has also performed with organizations such as
DITA, Grand Rapids Dance Project and numerous solo and group choreographic
works for countless events (World Salsa Congress, Salmagundi, Art Prize and
many more). Shields has also instructed numerous courses and set competitive
pieces for universities such as GVSU, Davenport University, Cornerstone
University, GRCC and MCC (as well as a multitude of studios and high schools
all over the Mid-West).
Markus relies on all of his abilities to
increase his growth and not only perform on the stage, but in life as well.
He knows his potential is endless and strives to let others know their
potential is just as infinite, remaining humble and conscious of all
blessings and success.
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