Richard

Richard Elszy is an accomplished and highly respected dance educator, choreographer, and technical director, renowned for his dedication to developing the next generation of dancers through a unique blend of technical expertise, inventive choreography, and personalized coaching. With well over 20 years of experience in the dance industry, Richard has built a reputation as one of the foremost instructors, both in the United States and internationally.

As the technical director of a nationally ranked dance studio for almost two decades, Richard has honed his craft in training dancers from the ground up. His teaching philosophy emphasizes a strong foundation in proper posture, alignment, strength, flexibility, and focus—essential elements that are critical for dancers to navigate the ever-evolving demands of modern dance styles. Richard believes that by focusing on these fundamental building blocks, dancers are equipped to perform complex skills and tricks safely and with longevity. His mission is to empower dancers with the technical tools to succeed while fostering a love for dance that will last a lifetime.

Richard’s innovative approach to teaching has garnered him recognition worldwide. He has traveled extensively to share his knowledge, conducting workshops and masterclasses across the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. His unique methodology has made him a sought-after instructor, particularly known for his ability to simplify complex concepts, making them relatable and accessible to young dancers.

In addition to his extensive teaching career, Richard is the creator of Building Blocks of Dance (BBD), an online dance technique program designed to help teachers elevate their craft. BBD provides strategies and tips on how to teach foundational elements of dance in a way that makes complex ideas easy to understand. Focused on the importance of posture, placement, and alignment, the program has earned praise from dance educators worldwide for its practical approach to building stronger, safer, and more technically proficient dancers. Through Building Blocks of Dance, Richard has inspired teachers and dancers across the globe, from beginners to professionals, fostering a generation of dancers who are both skilled and resilient.

Richard’s choreography career has seen success in multiple areas of the entertainment industry. As a Los Angeles-based choreographer, Richard has had the privilege of working with some of the industry’s brightest stars and up-and-coming talents. He was a faculty member at the prestigious Edge Performing Arts Center in Los Angeles, where he taught and mentored dancers who have gone on to have successful careers in both the commercial and artistic dance worlds. Richard has also presented numerous works at Club Jeté, LA’s premier dance showcase, where his choreography earned widespread acclaim for its creativity, fluidity, and technical complexity.

One of Richard’s most notable accomplishments was his work on So You Think You Can Dance, where his choreography was featured in a groundbreaking performance by the show’s first wheelchair dancer. This powerful moment not only showcased Richard’s ability to push the boundaries of dance but also his commitment to inclusivity and accessibility within the art form. His choreography has also appeared in multiple dance concept videos, including “Young Love” featuring Nia Frazier of Dance Moms, as well as campaigns for Chelsie Hill and the Rollettes, such as “Be Boundless”and “We Can Together.” Additionally, Richard choreographed a TV pilot sizzle reel for TV star and Emmy-nominated actress Shanti Lowry of Family Time, further demonstrating his versatile talent in the commercial and television sectors.

Richard’s choreography has earned multiple national awards and accolades, further solidifying his standing as a top-tier choreographer and dance educator. His innovative work continues to inspire dancers across various genres, from contemporary to hip-hop, jazz, and everything in between. Whether working with seasoned professionals or nurturing emerging talent, Richard’s ability to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant choreography sets him apart in the industry.

In his role with Immerse Artists Experience (IAX), Richard combines his extensive technical knowledge with his distinctive choreographic style to create an unparalleled training and coaching experience for dancers. Having been a part of IAX since its inception, he is deeply committed to the program’s mission of fostering talent and nurturing the artistic growth of each dancer. Richard’s dedication to his students, both in the studio and beyond, has made him a beloved mentor and role model to many.

As a teacher, choreographer, and mentor, Richard Elszy continues to make a lasting impact on the dance world. His dedication to the technical development and artistic expression of dancers, combined with his passion for inclusivity and creativity, has earned him a well-deserved place as one of the industry’s most respected and innovative figures. Richard remains committed to his mission of providing the next generation of dancers with the tools they need to succeed while inspiring them to create and perform with confidence, passion, and artistry.