Lauren Imhoff
Professional Background
Attended Elon University for Music Theatre. Worked as a first and second year apprentice and performed in shows at Flat Rock Playhouse. Took to the road on the National Tour of The Wizard of Oz from 2008-2010 (Ensemble, Dance Captain, US Dorothy (performed), Internal Swing). Performed, Choreographed, Directed, and was Education Director for The Little Theatre on the Square in Sullivan, IL. Proud member of Actor’s Equity Association. After moving to Greenville, SC in 2013, I began guest directing/choreographing for South Carolina Children’s Theatre. I now am the Tour Manager and School Liaison at SCCT where I also teach Musical Theatre and Dance.
What classes do you teach at AU?
INT/ADV Jazz, INT/ADV Tap, Musical Theatre Auditions, Dance Ensemble
What year did you start teaching at AU?
2013
Why teach at AU?
I love the opportunity to teach in a space where I can freely share my faith and how my faith has supported me in this often turbulent career in the performing arts. The students have an infectious energy which makes my job as an instructor a delight to work with them. I’m so thankful to be able to teach high level dancers and am blessed to watch them make connections, improve weekly, and truly transform into their own individual dancers.
What are some of your hobbies?
Spending time with my daughters. Any chance we get to be outside, going for walks in the park, visiting the zoo, fire pits on the back porch, we take them! In this crazy world, family is everything. I also like doing puzzles, coloring and reading books.
Notable achievements outside of discipline
My family is my most notable achievement. My husband, Chris Imhoff (AU trumpet instructor and professional musician), and I have two beautiful daughters, Clara and Amelia. We have an unconventional routine navigating rehearsal schedules, tech and performance weeks, and teaching hours. We are madly in love with our girls and couldn’t be more blessed to still pursue our passions in performing arts while building an amazing family together.
People might be interested to know that I...
Am a DISNEY FAN! I love the spectacular performances Disney offers in the parks, the classic movie musicals, and the heartfelt stories. I have such respect for the creativity that goes into the development of these magical experiences. We have a standing ‘Fireworks Fridays’ date on Friday nights in our home. We pull up a video of a fireworks spectacular, snuggle up on the couch, and eat ice cream with our little girls- It’s amazing what a bit of magic and imagination can do to release the stress of the week and bring a smile to our hearts.
Places you've lived:
Black Mountain, NC, traveled USA/Canada on national tour for 2 years, New York City, NY, Sullivan, IL, Greenville, SC
What do you find most enjoyable about working at AU?
The students have such passion for dance, it is easy to teach them. Their energy is invigorating and their skill continues to challenge me to keep growing, keep learning as their instructor. The dance faculty is a beautiful team of teachers and it is a pleasure to work as a part of this department.
What I wish prospectives students knew about my discipline or careers in my discipline.
Work Ethic, Focus and Intention are key in finding a career in dance. Be a sponge in every class you take. There is always something to learn and the creation and evolution of this art form will never stop. If you are willing to commit time, both in and outside of class to practice and rehearse, you will see yourself improve in no time!
How would you describe your classes to someone who has never attended one?
High energy, good tunes, dynamic movement. My expectations are that dancers arrive focused and open to growth in their dancing. I challenge my students to build upon what they already know and find success through positive change. I feel each dancer has incredible gifts to share and we are blessed to have the opportunity to dance with our full hearts.