June 15-26th

The NZO Modern Intensive is a conservatory-level training program designed for the serious dancer seeking technical precision and artistic depth. Over two focused weeks, dancers refine technical clarity in Ballet, establish a foundational Afro Modern practice, and learn NZO repertory from company members and Guest Artist at the top of their field within a disciplined professional rehearsal environment. Perfect for students wishing to enter University dance programs or dancers simply refining their technique.

Pre-professional Division Summer Intensive

Designed for dancers ages 13 through pre-professional levels, the NZO Summer Intensive offers a rare opportunity in Mississippi to train within a disciplined, culturally grounded environment that prepares artists to compete and collaborate beyond the region.

Curriculum: Students will engage in daily training in Ballet, Modern, Commercial, and African-based movement practices. The program also includes supplemental seminars in nutrition, anatomy, and professional audition preparation. Select dancers will be invited to rehearse alongside NZO company members and perform in the Summer Sizzler Showcase on the 26th.

Faculty

Anthony Wade Jr, MFA

Ballet & Contemporary

Anthony Wade Jr., originally from Wilmington, Delaware. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Choreography from the University of Roehampton in London, England, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet and Modern Dance from Texas Christian University, where he graduated Cum Laude through the prestigious School for Classical & Contemporary Dance.

He is currently an adjunct professor of dance at Texas Woman's University.  He has been a member of B. MOORE DANCE for 7 seasons. His choreography, recognized for its emotional depth, musicality, and cultural resonance, has been featured in festivals, concerts, and educational showcases.

Wade has served as a faculty member at the Joffrey Ballet School’s Dallas Summer Intensive, where he choreographed and instructed elite pre-professional dancers in ballet, modern, and contemporary techniques. He has been invited to teach master classes and set original works at universities and companies throughout Texas and the United Kingdom, including Texas Woman’s University, Texas State University, the University of Roehampton in London, Ronald K Brown’s EVIDENCE Dance Company, Textures contemporary Ballet, the International Association of Blacks in Dance, where he continues to foster international connections in dance education.

Previously, Anthony was a distinguished faculty member at the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts, where he served as a secondary dance educator, artistic mentor, and choreographer, cultivating a standard of excellence among emerging young dancers.

With a deep commitment to mentorship, creative inquiry, and culturally responsive pedagogy, Anthony Wade Jr. continues to inspire the next generation of artists through his interdisciplinary approach to dance training, performance, and choreography.

Alonzo E. Thompson Jr, BFA

Modern & African

Ajja Thompson is a dancer, choreographer, and lecturer specializing in African dance within its diaspora. Originally from Mississippi and based in Miami, Florida, he holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Texas Christian University and professional training from the Joffrey Ballet School. His performance and choreographic experience includes work with the Joffrey Ballet, Walt Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Les Ailes du Désir. Thompson’s academic and artistic practice focuses on the preservation and evolution of African diasporic movement traditions within contemporary contexts.

Lilian Hobdy

Commercial & Contemporary

Lilian Hobdy is a vibrant force in the dance world, armed with degrees from Holmes Community College and Belhaven University. With a foundation in musical theatre from New Stage Theater, she’s collaborated with renowned choreographers like Gabe Spiller, Kevin Jenkins, and Kellis Oldenburg.

Currently a background dancer for the rising artist Trouble in the Trouble Makers, Lilian’s choreography has ignited studios throughout the state and beyond, including her work with Kinetic Etchings. Based in Jackson, MS, she is thrilled to join NZO Dance Theater, ready to elevate artistry and inspire through movement. Let’s create magic!