Sonya Tayeh is an inspiration for late bloomers. She didn’t take her first technique class until college, but look at her now—she’s choreographing on “So You Think You Can Dance”! Tayeh is exactly the kind of teacher you can offer your students as a role model: With plenty of cool going for her, she knows how to generate the heat in class. We photographed her at EDGE Performing Arts in Los Angeles, and she also teaches on the convention circuit for NUVO. You’ll find details about NUVO and 63 other conventions in the Dance Teacher “2011 Guide to Conventions.”

When you pack to travel to convention events, be sure to take along one of our favorite warm-up outfits to stay cozy between classes. Those hotel conference centers can be downright frigid.

The holidays are here, and Nutcrackers everywhere are taking to the stage. If the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is more your cup of tea, you’ll enjoy reading about the man who had a vision for precision: Russell Markert, who founded the Rockettes.

The emphasis on performance at this time of year reminds us to pay tribute to those behind the scenes who maintain the integrity of the choreography. In “Getting It Right,” writer Karyn Collins looks at teaching roles inside professional dance companies. Read what Bettie de Jong, Alberto Del Saz and Jean-Pierre Frohlich have to say about conveying Paul Taylor, Alwin Nikolais and Jerome Robbins, respectively, to a new generation of dancers. Meanwhile, at the Westbeth Cunningham Studio, Robert Swinston is charged with carrying forward the Cunningham legacy. In “Technique” (and in this video), he shares one of Merce’s signature exercises for a strong and flexible torso.

There’s plenty more in this issue—information and inspiration—to propel you into the new year. The staff of Dance Teacher wishes you a healthful season with hope for peace and harmony in your world.

Karen Hildebrand

Editor in Chief