Valerie N Whitaker

VALERIE N. WHITAKER

Valerie is a professional choreographer, dancer and director of creative innovation and founder of Asaye Dance Company, established in 2010. As an artist, Valerie believes it is critical for all of us to embrace our spirit and true creative identity. She further believes, that doing so will allow dancers to gain strength and evolve into beautiful individuals. Valerie is passionate about sharing her love of dance and teaching her students the importance of artistic expression.

The Jackson, NJ Native was introduced to the world of dance at the age of three. Valerie has trained at numerous dance facilities including, More Than Dance (Jackson, NJ), Dance Dynamics (Howell, NJ), Tempo Theatre Arts (Marlboro, NJ), Alvin Ailey Dance company (NYC), Ambiance Dance Company (College Park, Maryland) and the American Repertoire Ballet (Princeton, NJ).  Valerie has studied various dance styles, but specializes in ballet and modern/ contemporary.

Valerie has worked with and studied with numerous choreographers and performed for several organizations including, The American Heart Association and The National Kidney Foundation. She has performed, choreographed and collaborated with various musical artists and fashion designers, and has choreographed routines for musical award shows. In 2011 Valerie began working closely with the students of Tala Shruti School of Dance and with world-renowned choreographer and artistic creative director Renuka Srinivasan. Since joining Tala Shruti, Valerie has grown as an artist and remains inspired by her students and Tala Shruti family.