2021 Princess Grace Honoraria
Nominated by: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Alysia L. Johnson (she/her) is a native of Dallas, Texas and credits the beginning of her dance education to Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s Academy. After her primary education with DBDT Alysia attended Booker T. Washington HSPVA under the direction of Lily Cabatu Weiss where she trained in composition, dance on camera, ballet, modern and contemporary forms. As a student of Booker T., Alysia performed works by Dwight Rhoden, Adam Hougland, Jousha Peugh, Juel D. Lane and Bridget Moore to name a few. At the age of 14, Alysia was rewarded a Texas Young Masters Scholarship by Texas Commission on the Arts that allowed her to supplement her training during the summers at Alvin Ailey, Alonzo King LINES Ballet, School of American Ballet, and Dance Theatre of Harlem. Upon graduating from BTWHSPVA, Alysia became a company member of Bruce Wood Dance Company at the age of 18. While getting her BFA at The Juilliard School in New York City Alysia developed a skill for community engagement and received two Grants to help further dance education in her hometown. Alysia curated and moderated a program with American Ballet Theater’s, Misty Copeland as well as programming the Black Student Union Events within the Juilliard Community. In 2017 Alysia directed her own inclusive-curriculum for a summer program in Dallas and has been creating education opportunities since then. Alysia was recognized at Juilliard’s Choreographic Honors Program for her choreography, “Errand Boys” in 2018. During her summers away from college Alysia continued to train with Larry Keigwin Summer Intensive, The Jacob’s Pillow Contemporary Program and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago where she is currently a company member.While teaching and being a full time student, Alysia performed works by Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, Kyle Abraham, Aszure Barton, Crystal Pite and many others. After graduating, Alysia joined the premier contemporary dance company in America, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Most recently Alysia was a part of Adidas Originals new shoe campaign. Alysia has been featured in music video’s alongside Shelley formally known as BIG BABY D.R.A.M and artist AntArtik. She was also featured in Tory Burch’s Spring 2018 Collection.In late 2020, Alysia became Head of Membership for Black Dance Change Makers, an online social platform helping to sustain and connect black creatives globally. A young advocate for arts as social education and reform, Alysia is excited to see where her journey as a performer, educator, and choreographer will take her and thanks the village of support she has from her family and friends.
