About Emerson
“I love to create work that explores not only the physical mechanics of our bodies but also the historical, cultural, and emotional dimensions of dance.”
Hailing from Portland, Oregon, Emerson Liam Donohoe grew up training with the nationally acclaimed Jefferson Dancers Company, going on to earn his BFA in Dance Performance from Chapman University. He has performed in numerous dance concerts, festivals, and sporting events across the West Coast with companies including Emergent Dance Company and Bodyvox Dance. Emerson has trained at The School at Jacob’s Pillow as well as The Perry Mansfield Conservatory, where he apprenticed and performed alongside the Limon Dance Company. His performance credits include works by acclaimed choreographers, including Dwight Rhoden, Wayne McGregor, Ido Tadmor, Dante Pulieo, and Rena Butler. Collaborating with student filmmakers from Chapman's prestigious Dodge College of Film & Media Arts, Emerson has also choreographed and directed numerous dance films.
Throughout his time studying dance at Chapman University, Emerson was a swing/standby at The Disneyland Resort, dancing in several shows and portraying various Disney characters. Following his graduation, Emerson moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, to perform with SALT Contemporary Dance's Sister Company, SALT2.
Currently, Emerson is on contract with Disney Cruise Line, singing and dancing in mainstage and deck shows, portraying numerous face and sculpted characters for meet-and-greets, and performing sunt/aerial work.
Grounded in evidence-based practices and with a fierce commitment to inclusivity and equity, Emerson fosters a space where every individual feels valued and empowered to embrace their unique journey within the world of dance. Through his choreographic endeavors, he seeks to ignite a passion for creativity and self-discovery, inviting others to join him on an enriching journey of movement and expression.
“...A solo by Emerson Donohoe stood out, not because he was the only man in the group, but because if he wants a professional career in dancing, it is there waiting for him.”
My sister, Paris Donohoe, produced this brief documentary where I discuss my upbringing as a dancer and my views on how the dance industry can evolve.
