Desmond Richardson – 1986 Scholar

Just eight years after he took the stage at the Kennedy Center as a Presidential Scholar from New York, the New York Times hailed Desmond Richardson as “one of the great modern dancers of his time.” Richardson served as a principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the Frankfurt Ballet, and the American Ballet Theatre, creating the title role in the world premiere of “Othello.” This master of dance forms from classical to contemporary has performed with the Swedish Opera Ballet, the Washington Ballet, Teatro alla Scala, and the San Francisco Ballet. Broadway credits include “The Look of Love,” “Movin’ Out,” and “Fosse,” for which he earned a 1999 Tony Award nomination. TV, video and film appearances with talents like Michael Jackson, Prince, Elton John, Madonna, and Aretha Franklin include 2002’s Oscar-winning hit “Chicago.” Co-Founder/ Co-Artistic Director of Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Richardson also teaches dance throughout the U.S. and abroad.