LAURIE PAPOVICH, D.F.C.C.A.

The National Executive Board of Directors of the Cecchetti Council of America is proud to present a brief bio of LAURIE PAPOVICH:

Laurie grew up in the Cecchetti Method at her sister’s dance studio, Kathleen Tenniswood School of Dance in Warren, Michigan. After Kathleen moved to Texas, Laurie continued her teacher training with Marjorie Hassard, Linda Butler, and Ann Parsley.

Also a member of Dance Masters of Michigan and Dance Masters of America, Laurie has been Director of the Miss and Mr. Dance Scholarship Competitions, second Vice President, and Director. She received the Dance Masters of Michigan Member of the Year award in 2011. Laurie has won numerous awards for her choreography and has works have received the highest number of points overall at regional competitions.

Her professional career included modeling, performing with the Detroit City Ballet, Detroit Express Soccer Team’s Cheerleader/Dancers, and the Maui Maidens Hawaiian dance line and, in 1990. traveling throughout the U.S. with the International Auto Show as a narrator for Jeep/Chrysler.   

She is the co-owner and Artistic Director of Main Stage Center for the Arts and Nouveau Dance Company in Michigan. Laurie’s 45-year teaching career has included training students and coaching teachers, teaching at university dance departments and workshops throughout the U.S., as well as at the CCA International Summer School and Teacher’s Course.

Students have received several awards at dance competitions as well being honored with dance scholarships to university dance programs and professional training schools. Former students have performed with or been accepted into programs of the National Ballet of Canada, Austin Ballet, Alvin Ailey, Oklahoma City University, Ballet Memphis, Charleston Ballet Theatre, Wayne State University, Point Park University, Marymount Manhattan College, and many other community dance productions. Students have been awarded highest overall points in national competitions. Laurie attributes the successes of her students to the technical discipline and artistry of the Cecchetti Method.

Laurie holds the Maestro Cecchetti Diploma, is a member of the NEBD where she serves as Chair of the Scholarship Committee, a member of the Development Committee, a Permanent Examiner, and a Liaison Officer. You may have met Laurie at Hope College where she is the Counselor Coordinator and Dorm Liaison for the CCA International Summer School.

She lives in East China, Michigan with her five dogs.