Domingo Estrada Jr. performing in “Giselle” during his time at the School for Classical & Contemporary Dance.
The School for Classical & Contemporary Dance (SCCDance) will celebrate its 75th anniversary this November, showcasing the program’s distinguished history, bright future and its role in cultivating artists and leaders in dance and beyond.
With an alumni network dating back to the 1950s, SCCDance graduates from each decade have contributed to diverse endeavors within and beyond the field of dance. We spoke with SCCDance alum Domingo Estrada Jr. ’07 about how his experiences at TCU have shaped his career.
Estrada Celebrates 75th Anniversary with a Special Performance
Domingo Estrada Jr. ’07. Photo credit: Beowulf Sheehan
After graduating from SCCDance with a double major in ballet and modern dance, Estrada embarked on a successful 16-year career with the internationally renowned Mark Morris Dance Group in New York.
“SCCDance had and continues to have a profound impact on my life and career,” Estrada shared.
Now residing in Fort Worth and raising his family, Estrada is a guest artist with the nationally acclaimed Bruce Wood Dance Dallas, a contemporary dance company.
He will be featured during the 75th Anniversary Concert with a special dance work created exclusively to honor alumni by Joy Bollinger ’02, Artistic Director and Resident Choreographer of Bruce Wood Dance Dallas. This piece will be performed only on Saturday, Nov. 2.
Finding Confidence and Inspiration at TCU
Estrada entered TCU as a novice, with minimal classical training, but his professors and mentors played a pivotal role in his development.
“They helped shape my mind, spirit and body into a well-trained, pre-professional artist, instilling in me the confidence to pursue a career in dance and the arts,” said Estrada.
Estrada performing in a Mark Morris Dance Group production. Photo credit: Andrea Mohin
During his time at SCCDance, Estrada had numerous performance opportunities, but one standout highlight was working with the late Fernando Bujones, who is regarded as one of the leading male dancers of the 20th century.
“What an honor and privilege it was to receive such valuable information and advice from an experienced artist and marvelous human,” said Estrada. “I still recall and am influenced by his grand presence and tremendous passion for dance and life.”
Estrada describes SCCDance as providing an inspiring environment rich in dance and movement history, with faculty invested in encouraging and nurturing the artistic spirit, all while aiming to develop better individuals.
“It is a treasure to be associated with such a fine program and university and I am more than thrilled to take part in the 75th Anniversary celebration,” said Estrada.