our story.
Tessera Dance Theater is a nonprofit organization created with the purpose of enriching the local arts community by partnering with Northeast Knoxville in order to create a dynamic, recognized, and respected arts hub where every individual is welcomed and prepared for the world through a multifaceted approach to dance education. Ken and Hannah both grew up dancing in the greater Knoxville area. Ken danced at Vine Middle School and Austin East High School, where he went on tour across the United States. Hannah trained throughout Knoxville before moving to New York City to continue her education and begin her professional career. Both now make their home minutes from East Knoxville, where Tessera Dance Theater will thrive. For every creative, you need an anchor to maintain balance; this is where Shannon comes in.
Collectively, we have shared this dream for over a decade. We believe in the importance of arts education and have personally experienced its gifts in our own lives and careers. At Tessera we believe that youth reflect what is modeled. At the heart of our organization is trust, collaboration, perseverance, education, and soul; qualities on their own that are valued, but when put together, form a beautiful mosaic. Without unity and teamwork, our vision and mission would be incomplete.
Success at TDT is not measured in accolades or first-place trophies, rather in the measure of the hard work of each unique artist, who is deeply rooted in the community and prepared for their future. As founders, we have specialized backgrounds that have been tailored for this work and almost two decades’ worth of management experience. Communities flourish where arts thrive; dance is more than movement, it is an upbringing in independence, maturity, respect, self-initiative, learning to take criticism, and working as part of a team. Our doors are open to all.
WHAT DOES TESSERA MEAN?
Tessera are 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.