Dr. Jillian Hopper

Biography

Jillian Hopper is the Interim Chair and Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Dance at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. She serves as the Artistic Director of the Dance Legacy Project in Michigan, collaborating with her creative partner Christian Matijas-Mecca. Her specialization lies in dance technique, particularly the Doris Humphrey technique, which she aims to preserve for future generations. Furthermore, she is a trustee of the Doris Humphrey Foundation in the UK. Jillian focuses on physical practice methods that enhance empathy and sensitivity in performance. Her teaching experience includes positions at Hillsdale College, Eastern Michigan University, Middlesex University in London, and the Northern School of Contemporary Dance in Leeds. At the University of Michigan, she has enjoyed rehearsing guest works by prominent choreographers and has served as a rehearsal director for various productions. Hopper holds a BA (Hons) in choreography from Middlesex University and an MFA in Dance Performance from the University of Michigan.

Research Interests