ABOUT
Lydia Shannon
Lydia Shannon is a native of Columbus, Ohio. She began her training at the age of 11 at Leap of Faith Dance Company in Westerville, Ohio, as a dancer in their pre-professional company program. While at Leap of Faith, Lydia trained in classical ballet, pointe, modern, contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, and tap.
After graduating high school, she is currently attending Anderson University (IN), pursuing a BA in Dance Performance and a BA in History. During her time at Anderson, Lydia has been cast in works by guest artists such as Nicole Clarke-Springer (Deeply Rooted Dance Theater), Stuart Lewis (Dance Kaleidoscope), and Randall Flinn (Ad Deum Dance Company). Lydia has also studied under and performed works by Erich Yetter, Debra Silveus, Doug King, and Hannah Wilhite.
In 2024, Lydia debuted her first mainstage work, found, as part of Anderson’s annual, student-choreographed show, “Fall Into Dance.” Before this, Lydia had experience choreographing for student chapels, class projects, and other informal events.
Lydia currently dances with Strive Dance Company in Indianapolis, Indiana, while completing her courses and continuing to choreograph and create art. Outside of dance, Lydia loves to read, visit museums, spend time in nature, and travel.
ARTIST STATEMENT
As an artist who loves dance and history, I believe dance connects us throughout time, both as artists and as audience members. I center both dance and history in my scholarship and artistry. Dance is an essential part of culture, a sacred art form that offers a deep sense of community. Dance can be a vehicle to share stories culturally, metaphorically, and literally.
I believe art is interpreted by the viewer in the way that is most needed by them at that point in their lives. Art is deeply personal and a vital reflection of the artist.
I am mainly influenced by my emotions, deep attachment to music, and things that I love. My work showcases shapes, feelings, and familiar comforts as I experience them or watch others experience them. My goal is always for my audience to connect to a part of my work, which can be as simple as admiring the costumes or as complex as evoking deep emotions in my audience.
After each work of choreography, I feel as if I have learned something about myself or revealed something new about my art. I am grateful beyond words for the ability to partake in this ephemeral art form that speaks to each individual in a different way.