Heffernan
Choreography
As a choreographer, I use my choreographic work as a vehicle to celebrate Appalachian culture and bring attention to the struggles of the Appalachian people. As a proud West Virginian and Appalachian woman, I believe it is incredibly important to educate people on this underserved community. I also choose to use my choreography in theatrical settings to bring joy to audiences in West Virginia.
Appalachian Memories (2024)
Appalachian Memories is the thesis work I developed for my undergraduate degree. This work uses traditional Appalachian dance and combines it with modern dance techniques to explore Appalachian cultural themes such as community, kinship, and the importance of home.
Footloose (2024)
While working as the Assistant Choreographer for Theatre West Virginia I had the pleasure of setting Footloose the musical, which incorporated upbeat vernacular jazz fundamentals in the style of 1980's jazz techniques.
Our Protectors (2023)
Inspired by the community of Appalachia, Our Protectors explores the idea of always having a source of protection in one's life. The piece looks at different examples of protectors such as divine intervention, familial ties, friendships, and random encounters.
Photo by Jennifer Garlow
Theatre West Virginia's "Footloose"
Photo by Sidney Chansamone
Brenau University's "Selcouth"
Photo by AJ Reynolds
Brenau University's "Oblivion"