Joyce Liao is a dancer, choreographer, improviser, and writer whose work explores the intersection of movement and language across contemporary and traditional forms. She holds a BA in Dance from the University of Washington and has presented work at Studio Current, On the Boards, Velocity Dance Center, Seattle Art Museum, Meany Hall, and other performance venues. Active in the local dance community, Joyce has contributed through original choreography, improvisation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As an artist-in-residence at Studio Current, she developed a reflective writing practice rooted in observation and creative inquiry. She also contributed performance reviews and commentary as a freelance journalist for Asia Today. Her current work surveys the poetic relationship between movement and writing, exploring dance as a practice for artistic expression, self-discovery, and lifelong learning. Ailin Chiu is a freelance journalist.
""Lively, positive, thought-provoking, and perfect for artistic expansion, Liao's messages are bright, shining stars that stand beside and enhance other dance books, capturing the delight and possibilities of honing one's art in a unique, compelling way."" - D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer at Midwest Book Review, Editor at Donovan's Literary Services ""Joyce's book is a gem of a resource for dancers. She combines personal reflection and experience with current research in the field to offer encouragement and useful tools to today's developing dance artists. Her book gives space for dancers to add their own reflections and ideas, keeping the reader actively engaged throughout. Her writing is clear and interesting, and shines with the love she has for dance. As a teacher I love this resource for my students, and wish I had had something like it when I was embarking on my dance career."" - Karena Birk, Director at Dance Fremont ""Through insightful anecdotes and practical exercises, the book delves into the importance of self-confidence, self-expression, and self-care, providing readers with indispensable tools for success. This book is a trusted guide that empowers dancers to embark on a transformative path of self-discovery through the art of movement."" - Ailin Chiu, Former Freelance Journalist & a Long-time Friend of Joyce