A Journey Through the Arts

M-Jay's artistic odyssey began in China, where he earned his M.F.A. in Dance in Musical Theatre from the Beijing Dance Academy. His academic pursuits continued with a B.A. in Music Education from Hunan Normal University, and he further honed his craft with an M.M. in Music Theatre Vocal Pedagogy from Carthage College and an M.A. in Theatre with a focus on Directing from Binghamton University.

Performing Arts Expertise

On stage, M-Jay has mesmerized audiences in a variety of roles, from the mystical Coricopat in the Mandarin production of Cats to the energetic Yellow Brick Road Dance Figure in The Wizard of Oz, and the compelling Angel #1 in Kinky Boots. His recent performances include the Off-Broadway production of King and the Clown and the vibrant cabaret Screen Queens! at The Pit in NYC. Each role showcases his remarkable versatility and artistry.

Directing and Choreographing Excellence

As a director and choreographer, M-Jay excels in bringing stories to life with creativity and precision. Notable projects include the Mandarin production of 42nd Street, Vanya! the musical, Edith Can Shoot Things and Hit Them, and A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad). His choreographic talents shine in works such as Sweet Charity, Ride the Cyclone, and contemporary dance pieces, demonstrating his innovative approach to movement and stagecraft.

Teaching and Mentorship

M-Jay is a passionate educator, imparting his knowledge at esteemed institutions like the Beijing Dance Academy, Carthage College, and the Communication University of China. His teaching encompasses musical theatre and dance, reflecting his dedication to shaping the next generation of artists.

Scholarly Contributions

An influential voice in the field, M-Jay has co-authored a compelling chapter titled “Musical Theatre Dance Training: Approaches in the United States and China” to the esteemed book Dance in Musical Theatre: A History of the Body in Movement. His scholarly work extends to other notable academic articles in China, further enriching the discourse on dance and musical theatre.

A Global Perspective

With professional memberships in Estill Voice International and the Music Theatre Educators Alliance International, M-Jay remains at the forefront of contemporary practices in voice training and musical theatre. His workshops and presentations, both in the U.S. and internationally, further exemplify his dedication to artistic excellence and cross-cultural exchange.