Aliya Myers Takes the Stage and More Unique Spaces with CoMo Dance

By Laura Puscas, CoMo Dance co-founder and director

Aliya Myers is a company dancer for the Columbus Modern (CoMo) Dance Company. See Aliya in CoMo’s “Season Finale” performance on Sunday, Feb. 18.

Laura: Where did you do your dance training, and how did you start dancing for CoMo?
Aliya: I did my dance training primarily at Diversion Dance Collective and then continued in college at Miami University in their dance minor program. While in college I knew I wanted to continue dancing post-graduation so I reached out to a friend who was already in CoMo and asked for more info.

Laura: Can you tell us more about some of the choreographers and pieces you’ve gotten to learn and perform with CoMo so far?
Aliya: In the short time I’ve been with the company I’ve been able to work with some amazing choreographers! Each one brings a different background, style and expertise. Most recently we worked with Kelsey Morozow Burbrink on a piece about stars. She let us experiment and help create the piece with her.

Laura: What has been your favorite performance with CoMo?
Aliya: I don’t think I could choose just one! So far my favorite performance(s) have been our Columbus Main Library Kickline performance and our CoMo at CoHatch performance. Both had good energy and choreography to where performing and sharing the experience with everyone felt amazing. It was clear that both audience and the performers had such a good time!

Laura: What are you looking forward to in CoMo’s February 18th “Season Finale” performance?
Aliya: I am really looking forward to showing some of our previous pieces and the new rep we have on stage. It’s the perfect way to end our season and appreciate all the dance and choreography we’ve done recently. Also, it’s such a good opportunity to hang out and get closer with company!

Laura: Why is dancing an important part of your life?
Aliya: I find dancing to be a meditation and something that calms me down immensely. I will come into rehearsal so stressed and by the end I feel light and energized. Not only is it a stress release but it is so beautiful to be able to share art and dance with others through performance, rehearsal or teaching.

Laura: What’s the best thing about the Columbus art scene right now?
Aliya: I really love how diverse it is. There is something for everyone no matter what you like, it’s really just a matter of seeking it out. Everyone is so welcoming and supportive of each other that I feel proud to be able to be a part of it again!

See Aliya in CoMo’s “Season Finale” performance on Sunday, Feb. 18 at 2 p.m. at the Abbey Theater of Dublin. General admission tickets are $15 adults, $10 students/seniors/military and $5 kids. Learn more and purchase tickets at comodance.org/performances. CoMo’s performances are made possible through a Dublin Arts Council Community Arts Grant.

This article is part of a bi-weekly column brought to you by the Greater Columbus Arts Council as part of the Art Makes Columbus campaign. Explore a calendar of events, public art database and artist stories at columbusmakesart.com. To learn more about GCAC grants visit gcac.org.