OUR MISSION.
The mission of Tessera Dance Theater is to partner with the East Knoxville community in order to create a dynamic, recognized, and respected arts hub where every student is a joyful mover and is welcomed and prepared for the future through world-class dance education.
Changing the world, one joyful mover at a time.
OUR VISION.
Tessera Dance Theater exists to educate and empower youth through a revolutionary and multifaceted approach to dance instruction and performance. Based in East Knoxville, our experienced, accredited, and diverse faculty and mentors encourage each dancer’s joyful movement individuality while providing a safe and healthy space for growth and pre-professional development. We believe that each student of Tessera is a unique artist, capable of greatness, deeply rooted in the community, and well prepared for success.
what does tessera mean?
A tessera is a four-sided mosaic tiles, both iridescent and non-iridescent in color, able to blend and combine in order to create a work of beauty. In Roman times, a tessera was a token of friendship and trust. Sometimes, first glances don’t display true magnificence and we want people to pause, look deeper, and come to appreciate, care for and invest in our vision. We desire to be an arts and educational facility that emphasizes the beauty that comes from blending dance styles, rich heritage and culture, and a vibrant arts community. We are multifaceted, enduring, and unique. We desire that this is reflected in our branding and image.