Peyton Jones: The Interview
Peyton was one of the first dancers I hired for Darvin Dances back in 2023 and originated a role in our inaugural work: Inclined to Decline. Along with being a beautiful dancer, Peyton is a wonderful human with a passion for teaching and choreography.
Photo by Afterglow Studio
How did you start dancing?
I started dancing when I was quite young. I stopped as a kid and restarted in fourth grade after seeing a friend’s dance recital. Not soon after I ended up quitting soccer after prioritizing rehearsing my tap dance while in the goalie position.
What's your relationship with Darvin Dances?
Darvin Dances was the first company I danced with! And it was really my first time performing since the pandemic began. I danced with Darvin for their first two seasons and though I don’t perform with them anymore, I love that I still feel connected to the company as a whole.
Videography by Sean Rafferty
How has your relationship with dance changed over the years?
My relationship with dance is always changing. When I graduated with my BFA in 2020, I was so unsure about how dance would play a role in my life. I began teaching dance recreationally during undergrad, and just recently graduated with my Masters in Elementary Education with a dance endorsement and now will be teaching dance in CPS. Creatively, I’m coming from a place of less pressure. I make things when I’m inspired, with my friends, on a walk. Movement is everywhere and I feel connected to dance when I notice it.
What are your choreography and teaching philosophies?
In education I aim to teach dance as a pathway for creative solutions, self confidence, whole body learning, and joyful expression. Dance education that is not solely assessed for the ability to execute steps and technique. However, a way for students to express themselves individually, come together in class community, and embrace movement and dance as an art that is for everybody and anybody.
In embodiment, creation, and choreography I move based on my experiences and the images I have and have had around me. I find that working with themes from my life helps me to process more deeply in an accessible and exciting way.
Photo by The Movement Media
What is something you would like to see change in the dance world?
I’d like to see a lot change in the dance world. Change is always happening, and dancers are very capable of it. The West’s consistent attachment to thinness is one thing I would hope to see a more drastic shift on.
Just for fun questions: What's your favorite drink? What's your favorite dance space in the city?
My favorite drink is an iced oat latte and my favorite dance space in Chicago is Bim Bom!