Suzann Kienast-Brown- Dancer, Choreographer, Teacher, Artistic Director Committee Member

Suzann grew up in the west and requires expansive landscapes and four seasons to thrive. She’s been dancing her whole life, but discovered modern dance at Utah State University while pursuing her B.S. in Soil and Water Science. She was immediately hooked and dove in head first, taking advantage of every opportunity that came her way to study and explore movement. After completing her M.S. in Soil Science, teaching modern and African dance at USU, and working with various independent choreographers in Utah, Suzann had the fortune of becoming Artistic Director of Valley Dance Ensemble in Logan, UT. During her tenure as Director from 2003-2014, she enjoyed sharing her passion for expression and joy in movement, and the opportunity to grow as a choreographer, teacher, and dancer. The company worked with many guest artists and experienced a wide range of movement possibilities, expanding her artistry in dance. In 2014, Suzann moved to Bozeman to pursue advancement in her career as a soil scientist but also found a welcoming home in the dance community. She has been with RDE since the inaugural season in the roles of dancer, choreographer, and teacher, and enjoys the support and inspiration of such a creative and dedicated collection of artists.