Ellie Thomas

Ellie Thomas (she/they) is a dancer, artist, teacher, and choreographer based in the Pacific Northwest and greater New York City area. Originally from Portland, OR, they trained at Sultanov Ballet Academy and was a Jefferson Dancers under artistic director Steve Gonzales. They recently graduated summa cum laude from SUNY Purchase with a BFA in Dance with a concentration in Composition, a minor in Arts Management, and certification in Pilates mat. At Purchase, Ellie performed works by Eve Chan, Wallie Wolfgruber, George Balanchine, Mary Anthony, Jenelle Figgins, and Lauren Edson. Additionally, they had the opportunity to study abroad at London Contemporary Dance School and performed a new work by Frauke Requardt and David Rosenburg. Supplemental training includes Whim W’Him, Vim Vigor, Alonzo King LINES Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet. Ellie is currently an apprentice and teacher with Open Space based in Portland, OR under the artistic direction of Franco Nieto.

Alongside performing, Ellie has presented their own choreography at Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) Seattle, the Newmark Theater in Portland, and at Purchase College. In 2020, their work won second place at the YAGP Seattle semi-finals. They have choreographed and taught for the Jefferson Dancers, Purchase BFA Acting, pre-professional contemporary ballet programs, and movement for younger dancers. Ellie is very excited to be teaching at Elevate Dance Academy!