Michael Medcalf, MFA: A Journey of Artistic Vision, Leadership, and Academia

In the vibrant tapestry of the arts world, Michael Medcalf’s journey unfolds as a story of unyielding passion, boundless creativity, and steadfast leadership. With over thirty years of dedicated engagement in the arts, his narrative is a testament to the transformative power of dance, the impact of visionary leadership, and the interplay between artistic innovation and administrative acumen.

Medcalf’s career has been characterized by the pursuit of engaging, inspirational, and transformational educational and artistic opportunities. In his current position as the Head of Dance within the Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Memphis, and as the former Director of Alabama State University’s BFA/Dance Program, he encourages students to embrace their uniqueness, as it is one of their greatest assets. In taking the helm at these fine institutions, he is humbled in assisting with shaping young dancers’ dreams by providing fine leadership in administration, visionary artistic direction, bold curriculum development, and inclusive strategic planning. Guiding aspiring talents towards graduation with Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees, his role has been underscored by fostering creativity, excellence, and academic growth.

A foundational milestone in Medcalf’s narrative was the establishment of the BFA/Dance program at Alabama State University, a groundbreaking endeavor that marked the university as the only HBCU to offer this degree at the time. Through visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, he carved a path that facilitated artistic growth, academic achievement, and diversity in dance education. The echoes of his passion for choreography and creativity resonated in the academic landscape, further shaping the legacy he continues to build.

Choreography stands as a hallmark of Medcalf’s career, woven intricately into the fabric of his journey. The art of dance creation has been his canvas of expression, where movement becomes a language that transcends boundaries. From his role as Founding Artistic/Executive Director of Cleveland Contemporary Dance Theatre to his current artistic direction of Michael Medcalf/Inventions, choreography has been his medium to convey stories, emotions, and experiences. His choreographic works often offer a glimpse into the depths of human expression and connection.

Medcalf’s journey extends beyond the studio, resonating in academic institutions, the not-for-profit sector, and private studios. His roles as a faculty member at esteemed institutions, including the University of Iowa and Cuyahoga Community College, have enabled him to nurture the next generation of dancers and artists. As a choreographer, he has been invited to share his knowledge and creativity through master classes and workshops across the country, leaving an indelible mark on aspiring talents.

Professional development has been a cornerstone of Medcalf’s journey, continually fueling his growth and innovation. Earning a Master of Fine Arts degree in dance from the University of Iowa and receiving the Alabama State Council on the Arts’ Fellowship for Dance are testimonies to his commitment to excellence. Selection for leadership mentoring as a part of Dance/USA’s Dance Institute for Leadership Training reinforced his dedication to advancing the field of dance and nurturing emerging leaders.

A career narrative, however, is not solely composed of achievements, but also of values that guide one’s path. Medcalf’s leadership is driven by the desire to create positive change within the organizations he serves, colleagues he leads, and himself. In cultivating an organizational culture that embraces diversity, creativity, and humanity, he has sought to propel artistic and administrative endeavors forward. This ethos is the bedrock upon which he has navigated the dynamic landscape of the arts, championing innovation and inclusivity.

As a professional dancer, Medcalf has graced the stages of numerous esteemed companies, channeling his choreographic insights into performances with Alfred Gallman’s Newark Dance Theatre, Ballethnic Dance Company, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble, and many more. His journey has not just been about individual achievement, but also about creating artistic landscapes that empower collective growth and collaboration.

In conclusion, Medcalf’s career narrative is a symphony of creativity and leadership, an ode to the transformative power of dance and the arts. From inspiring dancers through choreography, to shaping academic programs, his journey stands as an embodiment of dedication, innovation, and resilience. Looking ahead, he envisions a future where his journey continues to evolve, where the convergence of artistic expression and visionary leadership continues to shape the landscape of dance and the arts. He carries with him the collective spirit of his career, driven by the desire to create a lasting impact, embrace diversity, and cultivate excellence in the world of dance and beyond.