06/01/2026
We are privileged to announce our new Artistic Director, Lauren Sawson!
Lauren is an interdisciplinary artist and educator who has been rooted in movement throughout her entire life. Entering her second season with Dance PlayHouse, Lauren is thrilled to amplify her involvement as the company’s Artistic Director. Her professional journey is anchored by a BFA in Dance from Wayne State University. Following her degree, she moved to Dayton, Ohio, where she performed and choreographed for SMAG Dance Collective, sharpening her distinct voice as a creator. Her formative training in ballet, modern, jazz, and tap has since expanded into a rich, versatile vocabulary including contemporary, West African, hip hop, and improvisation. Throughout her career, Lauren has had the honor of training with artists and educators from companies like Paul Taylor, Ballet Russe de Monte-Carlo, Complexions, The Joffrey Ballet, The Lion King and Movin' Out.
With nearly 20 years of teaching experience throughout the Midwest and along the Lakeshore, Lauren is dedicated to offering enriching movement education for all ages. Her passion for early childhood development is reflected in her training with the Discover Dance program, while her certification in Acrobatic Arts allows her to integrate athletic floor-work into her technical classes. Lauren is looking forward to taking on Dance PlayHouse's roster of class offerings, continuing to provide high-level instruction for youth and adult programs alike. She will be leading vital community outreach initiatives at facilities such as Four Pointes Center for Successful Aging and The Playhouse at White Lake.
Beyond the studio, she serves as the Co-Founder of HomeBody Retreats, a community-focused initiative dedicated to accessibility and collective care.
Lauren’s approach to dance is further supported by a comprehensive background in holistic wellness. She is a 200-hour Certified Yoga Teacher and trained in the STOTT Pilates comprehensive mat program, as well as a Level II Usui Reiki Practitioner.
Join us in congratulating Lauren on this well-deserved promotion! 🎉
