About this Artist

Pronouns: she/they

Johanna Barbosa is a versatile dancer and educator with a passion for teaching and performing. She graduated from The University of the Arts in 2021 with a degree in Dance, specializing in Ballet, Modern (Graham), contemporary, and Improvisational scores. Johanna was awarded a full scholarship to train with Rioult Dance Company in New York City, where she developed her skills in the Martha Graham technique.

Throughout her career, Johanna has had the opportunity to work with acclaimed artists such as Boris Charmatz, Douglas Becker, Curt Haworth, Tommie-Waheed Evans, Sidra Bells and Katie Swords Thurman.  Her work with these artists has helped to shape her creative approach to dance and movement.

Johanna is a dedicated dance educator and currently works as a teaching artist at Wolf Trap Early Education, where she collaborates with teachers to develop an innovative and engaging curriculum for young children. Additionally, Johanna is a faculty member at local dance studios, where she teaches a variety of dance styles and techniques to students of all ages and levels.

Johanna’s teaching philosophy centers on creating a nurturing and supportive environment that encourages students to explore their creativity and grow as dancers. Her classes focus on technique, artistry, and expression, while also incorporating elements of improvisation and collaboration.

In addition to her work as a dancer and educator, Johanna is committed to community outreach and uses dance as a tool for social change. She believes that dance has the power to bring people together and break down barriers, and she strives to create opportunities for all individuals to experience the joy of movement.

I believe that every child is born with the innate ability to express themselves through movement. Dance is a universal language that allows children to explore, create, and communicate in a unique way. In my classes, I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment that allows children to express themselves freely and confidently. I believe in using dance as a tool for personal growth, self-expression, and social-emotional learning. Through dance, children can engage in imaginative play, explore different emotions and themes, and develop their creativity and problem-solving skills. By encouraging children to use their bodies as a means of communication, I hope to help them build self-esteem and foster a positive sense of self. I believe that dance has the power to connect people from all walks of life and break down barriers. As a teaching artist, I am committed to creating opportunities for children to experience the joy of movement and to use dance as a means of social change. I strive to provide a supportive and engaging environment where children can develop their skills, express themselves authentically, and grow as individuals.

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