Lundstrum Performing Arts Welcomes National Performing Artist Jordan Ward Today-25

Lundstrum Performing Arts is excited to announce Master Classes for youth ages eight through young-adult with national performing artist Jordan Ward. Los Angeles-based Ward is currently dancing with Justin Bieber on his international Purpose Tour, and has worked with many top artists including Prince, Prince Royce, and Becky G. He is excited to work with Minneapolis students and youth to share his passion for dance, and will teach two school workshops and six master classes later this month.

"I am thankful for every opportunity to teach and share," notes Ward. "Minneapolis has always been known for its strong dance community, and I am excited to teach the next generation of talent. I believe my purpose in life very much involves working with children."

Classes are open to the public and will take place at Lundstrum Performing Arts and at two Northside schools. Specific events include:

Thursday, February 23
In-School Intensive Workshop

• Lucy Craft Laney Elementary 4:00-5:00 pm
  Community Master Classes at Lundstrum Performing Arts
• Beginner Hip Hop for Ages 9-13 6:30-7:30 pm
• Intermediate/Advanced Hip Hop for Ages 13+ 7:30-8:45 pm

Friday, February 24
In-School Intensive Workshop

• Prodeo Academy 1:00-2:00 pm
  Community Master Classes at Lundstrum Performing Arts
• Beginner/Intermediate Hip Hop for Ages 8+ 5:30-7:00 pm
• Intermediate/Advanced Hip Hop for Ages 10+ 7:00-8:30 pm

Saturday, February 25
Community Master Classes at Lundstrum Performing Arts

• All levels Hip Hop for Ages 8+ 1:00-2:00 pm
• Open Hip Hop All Ages Intro Class 3:00-4:00 pm
• Advanced Audition/Master Class for Ages 10+ 4:00-5:30 pm

Born and raised in East St. Louis, Missouri, Jordan Ward has trained since childhood in musical theater (ballet, jazz, tap modern, contemporary and hip hop) and has been performing since age nine. After high school, Ward moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in commercial dance, and has worked with artists ranging from Justin Bieber, Prince, Prince Royce and Becky G. On television, he has been a recurring character on Glee and has appeared on Ellen, Arsenio Hall, the BET Awards, the Teen Choice Awards and So You Think You Can Dance as an assistant to Tyce Diorio.

The idea for the Master Class arose when Ward performed with Justin Bieber in Minneapolis in June 2016. After the show, Ward reconnected with fellow dancer and Lundstrum faculty Patrick Moore, who also launched his professional career from competition dance schools in East St. Louis, Missouri. After meeting backstage, Ward jumped at the chance to return in February for a Master Class.

Participants can register for the Master Classes online at www.lundstrum.org or by calling 612521-2600. The fee for each of the sessions is $25 per person.

Lundstrum Performing Arts is easily accessible from Interstate 94, via the Broadway exit, or from downtown via Washington Avenue. Parking is free.
Photos are available at www.lundstrum.org/jordan-ward-master-class.

Lundstrum Performing Arts has been a cultural force in North Minneapolis for nearly 100 years, providing instruction in dance, voice and drama to a diverse population of students as well as a venue for theatrical productions. Since 2007, the organization has been located at 1617 North Second Street in a spacious facility accommodating both lessons and performances. Each year, the Lundstrum Performing Arts serves nearly 500 students from a variety of backgrounds. Over half of its students come from diverse ethnic backgrounds and 40 percent of students receive financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships and waivers funded by generous gifts from donors.