KIM BEARS BAILEY

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) graduate of the University of Arts, Kim joined PHILADANCO in 1981. Currently the Assistant Artistic Director, she assists the rehearsal director and Costume Mistress. A 1992 "Bessie" Award recipient. (The New York Dance and Performance Award), Kim represented PHILADANCO at the 1988 American Dance Festival as a soloist where she performed two works by Dr. Pearl Primus. Ms. Bears appeared in the movie "Beloved". Ms. Bears-Bailey is currently artist-in-residence at Howard University in Washington, D.C.. Kim continues to teach at the PHILADANCO and constructs master classes and workshops across the globe as well as passing on the legacy of various mater works. Kim is one of few artist granted permission to remount the works of world renowned choreographers Talley Beatty, Pearl Primus, and Gene Hill Segan. Spring of 2011 Ms. Bears-Bailey remounted and directed "Celebrating the Legacy of African-American Dance Pioneer Pearl Primus with performances and panel discussions as part of an American Masterpiece project at the University of the Arts. Most recently she recieved the prestigious 2011 Mary Louise Beitzel Award for Distinguished Teaching from the University of the Arts. Ms. Bears-Bailey was one of four women choreographers who premiered a new work as part of the 2012 Dynamic Women of Dance showcase presented by the August Wilson Center Dance Ensemble. Ms. Bears-Bailey is the proud mother of Nia Yvonne Bailey.