Thaddeus Davis is an associate professor at The University of South Carolina in the Departments of Theatre and Dance and African American Studies. In addition to his scholarly work he is also co-artistic director of Wideman/Davis Dance. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Butler University in 1993 and his Master of Fine Arts from Hollins University/ADF in 2011. After an extensive performing career with leading professional companies, he continues to perform, research, choreograph, collaborate, and teach.
His current research explores the intersections of gender, class, race, and technology through an African American lens. His research is reflected in his choreography and writings, including: Ruptured Silence Racist Symbols and Signs (2015), past-carry-forward (2014), A Dissembled Life (2011), Dance Theatre of Harlem: Modernism, History, Culture (2011), and Balance (2009).
Davis has received multiple honors and grants for his work including: 2017 Provost Grant for the research and development of Migratuse Ataraxia, 2013 Map Fund Grant to support the research and development of Ruptured Silence: Racist Symbols and Signs, Jerome Robins New Essential Works Grant (2011), University of South Carolina Arts Institute, Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Reading/Dance Collaboration. Balance: Homelessness Project (2009), Canvas: The Master Class (2010), Cultural Envoy to Portugal, U.S. State Department (2007), Highlight of the Arts Season, Commercial Appeal, Memphis (2006), Winner of The New American Talent Choreographers Competition, Ballet Austin (2005), Choo San Goh Award for Choreography (2004), Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” (2002), Best Premiere of the Season, Dance Europe, Once Before, Twice After (2002-03), New York Times Top ten dance Highlight of the season, Once Before, Twice After (2002) calling it “reassuring evidence of New York dance’s promising future.” Butler University, 50 under 50 (2004).
Davis performed with many renowned companies including Donald Byrd/The Group (1998-2002), Dance Theater of Harlem (1994-1998), Complexions Contemporary Ballet (1995-2005), Fugate/Bahiri Ballet NY Dance Galaxy (2000-2002), Indianapolis Ballet (1991-1993), Fukuoka City Ballet (1995), and Atlanta Dance Theater (1988).
Davis has taught as a visiting professor or guest artist for scores of colleges and professional dance programs. He was Visiting Professor at the University of Iowa (2008) and for the following professional dance companies and programs: Alley II (2012), Boston Ballet (2011), Dance Theater of Harlem (2011), Ballet Quorum, Portugal (2007), Northwest Professional Dance Project (2005-2007), Center of Contemporary Art (2005-2007), Ballet Austin (2004-2006), Ballet Classical Dominican, Dominican Republic (2004-2006), Spectrum Dance Theater (2005), and Steps on Broadway (2003-2004). Davis has taught as a guest artist at the following Universities and dance centers: University of the Arts (2017), North Carolina School of the Arts (2012), Florida State University (2012), Webster University (2011), Long Island University (2011), Marymount Manhattan (2011), University of Missouri–Kansas City (2011), Goucher College (2007), Auburn University (2006), Alvin Ailey/Fordham University (2005), Butler University (2005), Arizona State University (2004), and The Julliard School (2003).
As a fellow of the 2016 South Carolina Collaboration on Race and Reconciliation, Davis is committed to being an active participant in South Carolina’s efforts to improve community relations and support conversations on race and reconciliation. In addition, Davis serves as a member of Dance/ USA’s Board of Trustees.
