Introducing Terrance Morgan
Terrance Morgan began training as a self-taught dancer doing mostly free-style (improvisation), which is when he first was introduced to the hip hop dance style of B-Boying. This led to him becoming an original member of a local dance group called Kabuki Kru. Terrance began traveling throughout the U.S. to participate in underground B-Boy Battles, where he continued to learn about a variety of dance styles. The more he learned, the more his passion grew. He saw the impact that dance had on the communities he visited and knew that he wanted to do more than simply entertain. He wanted to empower.
In 2005, he co-founded an educational theater performance that not only taught students about their general studies such as Social Studies, History, Creative Representation, and Physical Fitness in an interactive way but also motivated them to see their full potential. Since then, his passion for mentoring today’s youth has continued to grow and his reach has expanded to families and professionals across the state. He currently travels and performs as a motivational and educational speaker/artist that performs in schools, libraries, festivals, and more weekly to spread his message of positivity.
Morgan founded The Parc de Lafayette Jam for Festival International in 2004, which has become an annual event since it’s start, as well as one of the most talked about and looked forward to events with local talent. He was featured as a stunt double and dancer in the movie, “Spring Break 83”, choreographed for The Exposure Entertainment Showcase in Hollywood, Ca, and for The Showcase held at The Apollo Theatre, NYC. He’s has studied dance at notable studios such as Broadway Dance Center, Peridance, and Champions Dance Studio. He was also an instructor for Red Feet Productions’ New Orleans Dance Convention “Intensive” and been noted for his work through callbacks received by Sony Music. In 2012, he was voted as one of Acadiana Lifestyle Magazine’s Most Interesting People and then performed during the 2013 Pepsi Superbowl Halftime festivities.
In 2019, he was voted again as one of Acadiana Lifestyle Magazine’s Most Interesting People and presented with the Louisiana Volunteer Service Award by Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor, Billy Nungesser.
Process & Completed Works
My creative process usually starts with a vision from meeting someone out in the community that inspires me to use my artistic expression in a positive way to push the boundaries. Some of my completed works have revolved around collaborating with different artists that perform spoken word, percussion, and dance to create youth driven programs about anti-bullying, anti-gun violence and positive thinking.
Getting hyped up for Festival International this week! One of my most accomplished works is the Parc Jam. This is the 19th year for the Jam and I am excited to be able to share some moments with the community this Thursday courtesy of Basin Arts social media platform. Parc Jam was originated in the year 2004 and was founded by Terrance Morgan with the collaboration of A Melting Pot Jazz Band. In the year to follow, with the collaboration of local musicians, DJ’s and dancers, The Parc Jam has grown to what it is today, an all ages, free community event featuring funk and jazz bands, DJ’s playing funk, disco, house and classic hip hop music with dancers doing a variety of different dance styles. The Parc Jam is being held on Thursday, April 28, 2022 from 3pm until 11pm in Parc de Lafayette for Festival International.
Who makes up your art circle?
My art circle is made up of God first, family, dancers, Djs, musicians, and artists who are passionate about their work.
How do you expand your art circle?
I expand my art circle by trying to connect with as many artists as possible.
What value do you see in having a creative community?
The value I see in having a creative community is being able to use the arts to spread self expression and positivity.
How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?
My artistic approach allows me to use my Arts Education programs in my community to advocate against Anti-Gun Violence, Anti-Bullying, and Peer Pressure issues that allows me to motivate the youth in our community in a positive direction.
