Exciting news! Announcing Marlee Hightower as the Masterclass instructor at the World of Dance Summit! Happening on the 31st of July. Open for everyone to register, Register Now.

Introducing Marlee Hightower, the Hip Hop Prodigy Shaping the Dance World. Hailing from Orlando, Florida, Marlee's journey has taken her from a young dance enthusiast to a renowned dancer, choreographer, and instructor. With a deep passion for hip hop and a commitment to inspiring others, Marlee's story is one of relentless dedication and artistic exploration. Now, as the Masterclass Faculty at the World of Dance Summit, she is poised to share her unique insights and transformative approach with dancers around the globe. The registration for her Masterclass is open to everyone. 

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Start of Dance Journey & Style

She shares that her journey in dance began at the tender age of 3. Her mother, noticing her natural inclination towards movement, enrolled her in dance classes. By the age of 6, Marlee had her first hip hop class, and from that moment, she never looked back. Hip hop became her primary style, and she grew through continuous practice and participation in a competitive dance team.

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Her Influences and Inspirations

Marlee conveys that her dance influences include Shay Latukalon, Damien Jalet, Batalla, Kyoka Rushball, Andre Stylez, and Caetlyn Watson. These individuals not only impressed her with their skills but also inspired her with their unique approaches to dance. As for what inspires her to move, Marlee draws heavily from soulful music and her lived experiences, finding motivation in the rhythms and stories that music tells.

Ambitions beyond the stage

She shares that her ambitions extend beyond personal achievements. Marlee aims to release the emotions and stories within her through dance, striving to better herself as an artist to effectively tell her story. She also seeks to provide a level of relatability for anyone looking to feel represented emotionally, ethnically, artistically, and more. Her ultimate goal is to touch people's hearts and minds through her dance.

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A Legacy of Accomplishments

Reflecting on her journey, Marlee recounts some of her significant achievements. She is the proud owner of the Orlando-based dance studio Motiv and the creative director and founder of Motiv Crew. Her career has seen her dance for renowned artists such as Jazmine Sullivan and Pharrell Williams. She has also worked with major brands like Puma and Coca-Cola. Additionally, Marlee competed in NBC’s World of Dance and America’s Got Talent, showcasing her skills on national television.

Teaching Journey & Expectations at World of Dance Summit

Marlee began teaching at the young age of 11 and started teaching consistently at 15. She shares that through the years, her teaching and dance style have evolved significantly. From exploring intricate musicality to navigating teen angst through high-energy choreography, Marlee has now refined her movement to deepen her understanding of dance foundations and groove. In her classes, she expects students to be open to trying new things to broaden their vocabulary. She believes that the more willing students are, the better they will become.

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A Message of Musicality and Movement

She encourages dancers and teachers to remember that music drives the dance, not the other way around. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's art and being patient with one's journey.

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In Conclusion

Marlee Hightower’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of hip hop dance. Through her artistry and commitment to pushing boundaries, she continues to inspire dancers and dreamers around the world. And now, as the Masterclass Faculty at the World of Dance Summit, she is ready to share her unique vision and expertise with the dance community. We are honored to have her on board!

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