Shawn is a freelance Dramaturg currently residing in Western New York. His immense passion for performance artistry began with extensive training in martial arts for nearly a decade, before transitioning into the realm of classical ballet. Throughout the early years of his career he built an impressive resume in performance, carefully crafting a diverse repertoire of classical, contemporary, and modern dance which speaks to his commitment & versatility as an artist. He has performed in nearly two dozen regional productions, having gracefully shared the stage with high caliber dance professionals from the New York City Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and Jose Mateo Ballet Theater.

Shawn has also spent two seasons in rep dancing with the Chautauqua Opera Company, as recently as 2015. It is here where he has had the honor and privilege of working alongside internationally renowned opera singers and industry professionals from the Metropolitan Opera, Sydney Opera, Boston Opera, & San Francisco Opera just to highlight a few.

Drawing upon his unique experiences as a performer, combined with his impeccable eye for detail as an academic & historian, Shawn has fervently collaborated with directors, designers, & performers alike to help create and foster shows of a higher quality. Engaging in intensive historical analysis, investigative research, and unrelenting fact-finding, Shawn has displayed an innate sensibility for authenticity in his work as a production Dramaturg.

Classical Ballet, Golden Age Musicals, Plays

Historical Periods: United States History from 1914-1948
History of the United Kingdom 1850-1945
The Modernization of Europe 1860-1918
Japanese History 1601-1868

Yes

English