Lauren Huynh, born and raised in Plano, Texas, began her training at the Hathaway Academy of Ballet. She was later awarded the Nordan Fine Arts Scholarship at Texas Christian University (TCU), where she graduated with a BFA in Ballet and Modern Dance, as well as a minor in General Business.
During her time at TCU, she was selected to travel to Rwanda to continue TCU’s long-term relationship with Godelieve Mukasarasi and the SEVOTA Institute, was awarded the TCU Mission Statement Scholarship, and received the Senior Legacy award honoring her antiracist work and activism.
She has performed choreography by George Balanchine, August Bournonville, Darrell Grand Moultrie, Francesca Harper, Jennifer Archibald, Gabrielle Lamb, LeeWei Chao, Adam Barruch, among others. Lauren has attended summer programs at BalletX, Oregon Ballet Theatre, and Joffrey Ballet as well as Alonzo King LINES Ballet and Dance Theatre of Harlem on full scholarships.
During the spring of 2021, Lauren joined Bruce Wood Dance as an Apprentice. Ms. Huynh is eager to inspire and grow in her first season with Collage Dance Collective.
Why Collage? What’s one thing that excited you about working with (and dancing with) Collage?
Collage embodies a diverse repertoire which I find exciting and important. Equally noteworthy is its leadership’s incredible vision of growth, outreach and exposure of the arts in the community.
When did you begin dancing and how did you get started?
I began dancing at age 3. My parents exposed me to many activities from a young age, including ballet. I enjoyed movement with music from the beginning!
What’s your favorite quote and why?
“Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” -John Wooden
Regardless of the any situation, I can choose to make the best of it in attitude and intention.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to know about you?
I’ve been a pescatarian all my life and I truly enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!
What’s your favorite part of being a pro dancer and why?
My favorite part has to be performing! Being able to give my all and leave everything out on the stage is the best feeling. There is something so special about being in the theatre, on a stage, dancing with your peers and doing what you love.
“Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”
If you weren’t a professional ballet dancer what would you be doing?
If I wasn’t a professional ballet dancer, I would be pursuing a musical theatre career on Broadway. Outside of the arts, I would pursue education in Physical Therapy. It would be rewarding to work with dancers, helping to prevent and/or recover from injuries.
What’s one thing you simply had to bring with you to your new home of Memphis?
The milk frother my grandma gifted me for graduation! This is key to the ultimate home coffee experience! 🙂
Who’s your biggest fan? The one to surely bring you flowers in person or virtually?
My mom, 100%!
How are you staying busy, sane and in shape, these days?
The biggest perk of being an artist during this historical time is being able to tune in to studios from all around the world, which otherwise might not be available.
For the new dancer and even the young trainee, what advice would you give?
Don’t focus on what other people have that you don’t, know your strengths and focus on showcasing what makes you unique and special. Remind yourself that everyone’s timeline is different, so don’t compare yours to others.
Must have (non-dance item) in your dance bag and dressing room?
Air pods! Listening to music is a key part of how I get ready for a rehearsal or performance.
Why should people experience a ballet performance at least once in their life?
I believe that nothing compares to a live artistic performance married to an incredible score. The vulnerability and emotion a dancer expresses while on stage is something you just have to experience.
What music artists are you listening to right now?
I love a mix of different genres of music! I have been listening to a ton of Kiana Ledé, Summer Walker, and Luke Combs!
Best movie you’ve seen this year?
Just Mercy
See Lauren Huynh and the entire Collage Dance Collective perform during RISE, February 19th and 20th in Memphis. For tickets
Not in Memphis or staying close to home these days? ONE Members have exclusive access to livestream performances including RISE! More details will be emailed to ONE Members.
