Movement Labs: Masterclasses & Artist Talk-Back
Movement Labs: Masterclass & Artist Talk-back with Jennifer Archibald
Step inside the creative engine of one of today’s most sought-after choreographic voices.
Movement Labs returns to the Arts District with internationally acclaimed choreographer Jennifer Archibald, founder of Arch Dance Company and a nationally recognized leader at the intersection of ballet, contemporary, and hip hop vocabularies.
Archibald has created works for Ailey II, BalletX, Cincinnati Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, Oregon Ballet Theatre, Pittsburgh Ballet, and many more. She was appointed the first female Resident Choreographer in Cincinnati Ballet’s 40-year history and has choreographed commercially for NIKE, MAC Cosmetics, Tommy Hilfiger, and major recording artists. Her work has been presented at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, Jacob’s Pillow, and New York City Center.
Known for her groundbreaking “Documentary Ballet” format, Jennifer creates works rooted in historical research that bring communities into the creative process. Her projects honor stories such as Black Wall Street, Holocaust survivor Florence Waren, and Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee, expanding dance beyond performance into cultural dialogue.
Movement Labs unfolds in two parts:
Masterclass (Pre-Registration Required | Free)
A high-level, technique and artistry-driven masterclass led by Jennifer Archibald. Designed for pre-professional and professional dancers but open to all levels, this is a rare opportunity to train with a nationally commissioned choreographer right here in San Diego.
Artist Talk-Back + Q&A (Free & Open to the Public)
Immediately following the class, Jennifer will share insights into her choreographic process, how she merges forms and histories, and how dance can serve as both artistic expression and social inquiry. The facilitated conversation includes audience questions and, when appropriate, brief movement demonstrations to illuminate her creative choices.
Movement Labs transforms the studio into a shared community learning space where technique meets conversation. Whether you are a dancer, an Arts District visitor, a family member, or simply curious about how dance tells stories, this event invites you into the “why” behind the work.
Free admission.
Masterclass requires advance registration.
Talk-back open to the public (space permitting).
Experience the Arts District as a place where art is not only presented, but actively created, examined, and shared.
This program is supported by Arts District Liberty Station Community Impact Fund.
Cost
$0
