Evelyn Thomas, Dance Educator, Choreographer, Dancer/Actress, Founder and Artistic Director of Nuba Dance Theatre has performed and taught dance techniques such as modern jazz - ballet, Graham and Limon technique, dance composition and dance production. With world famous choreographers and dancers, she trained at the Juilliard School under such dance legends as Jose Limon, Helen McGee, and Geoffrey Holder, Dance Theater of Harlem, New York Ballet, Henry Street Music School, Mobilation for Youth Cultural Arts Program and Martha Graham School of Dance to develop her unique multi-generational and multi-ethnic approach to dance, specializing in Modern Jazz ballet and pan-African dance styles. For over 30 years, Thomas has skillfully blended dance techniques to create an exciting, upbeat and visionary repertoire that is inspired by contemporary issues and life experiences.
Thomas created performances which reflect her emphasis on the unity of the body, mind and spirit which results in dance movements that are powerful, flowing and rhythmic. Her choreography attracts children, youth, college students, families and diverse communities from all ethnicities and walks of life. She has produced and choreographed a number of children, adult, college and community dance performances along with numerous Ballet repertoires. Thomas has performed on many stages around the United States. She has danced in the Broadway production of "The Wiz" and the National Touring Company, as the original role of "the Tornado". She performed at the Houston Grand Opera, "The Outcast". In "Raining Down Stars", she performed as an actress and dancer. She also was an improvisational dancer for "Wild Gardens of the Loup Garou" at the Bay View Opera House in San Francisco, CA. In addition, she worked with George Faison, Debbie Allen, Mary Hinkson, Anna Sokolow, Ron Stacker Thompson, Alfredo Corvino, Rod Rodgers and Luly Santangelo, just to name a few.
She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Education at Antioch University and later receiving her Community College Life Service Teaching Credential in Dance. Thomas' teaching experience includes Queen's College, The Edwin Gould Foundation for Children, Howard University, University of California Berkeley, San Francisco State University, City College of San Francisco, Beacon Schools, Shelton Primary, Laney College, Lakeshore School, La Cheim School, Berkeley Ballet, St. Louis Public Schools, Community School of the East Bay, Duke University, North Carolina Central University and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.. In addition, Thomas has received recognition for her awesome and profound choreography by achieving awards such as the Bay Area Critics Circle for Air Guitar, San Francisco Choreography Award for Universal Spirit (Ballet), Isadora Duncan Award Finalist for Nuba Dance Theatre, Universal Spirit, and Oakland Business Award not only for her artistic abilities but for her excellent commitment to the cultural well being of the Oakland community.
With her background, Thomas blends her dancing skills, choreography and professional experience in the theatre to express to children, youth and adults that performing arts promotes self-discipline and enhances positive images for individuals and communities.