Jazz & Java

Start your day with the perfect blend of energy and excitement! Begin with a freshly brewed cup of coffee to fuel your spirit, then dive right into a high-energy jazz dance class set to the lively, toe-tapping rhythms of Broadway-inspired tunes. This fun and dynamic class will have you moving, grooving, and embracing the joy of dance as you celebrate the vibrant energy of CDF’s 5th Anniversary season! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or new to jazz, this class is designed to energize and uplift, combining rhythm, movement, and a love for Broadway.

Join us for this special event, where you'll not only get your heart pumping, but also feel the pulse of the music and the power of community. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your morning and dance your way into the day with a smile.

Geoff Alexander, a St. Louis native, earned his BA in Dance Performance from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. His professional journey began in 2008 with the ATrek Dance Collective. In 2011, Geoff became a founding member of The Big Muddy Dance Company, now known as St. Louis Dance Theatre, currently led by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre alum Kirven Douthit-Boyd. During his tenure with the company, he performed works by distinguished choreographers including Norbert De La Cruz III, Thang Dao, Marcus Jarrell Willis, Stephanie Martinez, Robyn Mineko Williams, Joshua L. Peugh, Kate Skarpetowska, Robert Moses, Lou Conte, Harrison McEldowney, Lauri Stallings, Brian Enos, Kirven Douthit-Boyd and many others.

Through his collaborations with the Variety Children's Theatre, Geoff was able to revisit his passion for musical theatre, performing in productions such as Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, Disney's The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, and Beauty and the Beast. His professional partnerships also extended to esteemed institutions such as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, St. Louis Opera Theatre, Jazz St. Louis, the St. Louis Bach Society, and the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival.

An accomplished educator, Geoff has served on the faculty at both Webster University Conservatory and his alma mater, SIUE, teaching jazz, contemporary dance, and tumbling. After 13 years with Big Muddy, Geoff transitioned to freelance work, embracing opportunities as a choreographer and teacher. His choreography has been showcased by various organizations, including the Big Muddy Dance Company, Webster University Conservatory, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Southeast Missouri State, Ashleyliane Dance Company, the American College Dance Association Gala (2018), NYC Live Arts Global: A Night at the Ballet (2020), the Center of Creative Arts, and Theatre Nuevo.

Recently moved to Monterey, Geoff continues his freelance career, most recently teaching masterclasses at Bakersfield City Ballet and CSU Fullerton, as well as holding a residency at Irvine Valley College.

Come celebrate with us, move with us, and let’s make CDF'S 5th anniversary season one to remember!