voices from the stage

Dominic Moore-Dunson

Director/Choreographer/Dancer

Over the last ten years, The Movement Project has filled a crucial gap in our dance ecosystem—creating a home for individual artists at a time when so many of us, especially non-company dancers, were simply floating. When few spaces existed to support the independent dance maker, TMP stepped up with Cleveland Dance Fest and made space where there was none. They didn’t wait for a perfect infrastructure—they built one.

What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a movement that has nurtured an entire generation of dance artists in Northeast Ohio. Because of TMP’s commitment to centering individual voices, we’re now seeing choreographers who got their first shot at Cleveland Dance Fest go on to present at high-profile platforms like CPT’s DanceWorks, Dance Showcase, and through self-produced concerts across the region.

To have made this kind of impact in ten years is no small feat. TMP didn’t just create a festival—they built a launchpad. And our dance community is stronger, more vibrant, and more sustainable because of it.

Melissa Ajayi

Ajayi Dance founder/director

I am grateful to have been part of the Cleveland Dance Festival over the years as a performer as well as a choreographer.  I appreciate knowing that this annual festival provides an opportunity to connect with other dance artists, experience the work of my colleagues, perform in works by other local artists, and present my own work without the overhead of self-producing. 

By gathering many dance artists in one place for this festival, not only do artists have a chance to intersect and inspire each other, but audiences have an opportunity to discover the work of other artists they may not otherwise see.  

Having participated in the festival several times, I am impressed by the individuals and the company as a whole who have demonstrated an ability to respond to change, actively seek out and accept feedback from artists, and continuously use their platform to advocate for the dance community in an ever evolving landscape. TMP has made it clear that they value the work of artists by prioritizing compensation for artists, and promoting their work through providing resources such as access to space, videography, photography, and networking. 

Congratulations on 10 years of CDF! Looking forward to many more!

Lauren Jordan

TMP Lighting Designer

Being part of TMP and Cleveland Dance Fest from the very beginning has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. As their lighting designer, I’ve had the unique opportunity to help shape the visual storytelling of so many powerful performances — and in the process, I’ve grown both professionally and personally alongside this incredible organization. I love working with them, not just for the work itself, but for the spirit of collaboration, trust, and shared purpose they bring to every project.

Watching Megan grow over the years into the inspiring Artistic Director she is today has been nothing short of amazing. I met Megan back in 2008 when we were both dance majors at Ohio University, and it’s been a true honor to witness her vision evolve and flourish. She leads with integrity, care, and a deep commitment to community — qualities that are deeply felt in everything TMP and Cleveland Dance Fest create.

Each production feels intentional and fueled by a deep love for dance, creativity, exploration and storytelling. The way this organization consistently shows up for artists, provides space for experimentation, and centers inclusion is rare and deeply meaningful. It’s not just a festival or a platform — it’s a home for artists to "Gather, Give, and Grow." This work brings people together, gives generously to the dance community, and creates space for meaningful, lasting growth — for artists, audiences, and the art itself and I'm so happy I can be a part. 

Christine Howe

Assistant Professor of Practice in Dance at The University of Akron & TMP Board Member

Working with The Movement Project as a collaborator, artist, and board member has been truly inspiring. Their unwavering perseverance as artistic administrators and their deep-rooted commitment to community consistently embolden artists to believe in their work. At a time when the arts face unprecedented challenges, The Movement Project stands as a beacon for dance artists, offering both hope and reassurance by truly listening and responding to the needs of the community. 

As a Choreographic Fellow, I experienced an unparalleled level of support. I was given both the freedom and the resources to create, along with meaningful opportunities for visibility and promotion across various media platforms.

The Movement Project serves as a vital root system that sustains and uplifts the dance community in Northeast Ohio and beyond. I am deeply grateful for their impact on my choreographic career and for their continued dedication to making dance a vibrant and essential part of our community.