Sawyer Kadel is a nonbinary and queer person raised in West Virginia and California. They are a movement artist, researcher, and educator focused on the connections between dance, social interaction, and community building. A Radford University BFA graduate, they work across contemporary, jazz, modern, burlesque, improvisation, and ballet. Most recently they have been serving with AmeriCorps’ ArtistYear, promoting equitable arts education in North Carolina schools. Inspired by social interaction, nature, and mosh pits, they explore dance as a tool for connection. Sawyer applied for apprenticeship with SDW in 2024 and was invited to join the company in 2025.
“Being part of ShaLeigh Dance Works has been transformative for me. The mentorship I have received, the skills I have developed, and the sense of community I have found here are invaluable. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this organization provides, not only to me but to so many others.”