TEACHING STATEMENT

As a dance educator, I teach Horton technique, Vogue, and Latin social dances, alongside a range of contemporary, street, and diasporic movement practices. My classes integrate technical precision with cultural and historical context, encouraging students to embody both discipline and individuality. I strive to create a learning environment that is rigorous, inclusive, and rooted in community—where students feel empowered to explore their artistry, take risks, and engage with dance as a form of personal and cultural storytelling. My goal is for each student to leave class not only a stronger dancer, but also a more aware, confident, and expressive human being.

TEACHING Highlights

Summer Intensive Faculty (2018–Present) | Earl Mosley’s Institute of the Arts | Hempstead, NY

Adjunct Associate Professor (August - December 2024) | Shenandoah Conservatory, Shenandoah University | Winchester, VA

Teaching Artist | Montclair State University (Apr. 2019, Apr. 2024, Nov. 2024), Manhattan Youth Ballet (Oct. 2024), Restoration Plaza Cultural Arts Center (March 2024), Putney School (Dec. 2023), Rosie’s Theater Kids (Sept. 2023), Ballet Hispánico School of Dance (Sept. 2023), Spence School (Nov. 2023), Success Academy (Oct. 2023), Dance International Program - Japan (Oct. 2022), Alabama School of the Arts (Apr. 2020), Brooklyn High School of the Arts (Apr. 2020), Harlem School of the Arts (Apr. 2018), Bronx Dance Theater (Apr. 2018), Bronx Dance Academy (Apr. 2017)

Guest Artist (October 2023) | Shenandoah Conservatory, Shenandoah University | Winchester, VA

Conferences & CERTIFICATIONS

Horton Technique Teacher Conference | Alvin Ailey School, New York, NY | Jul. 2020

CPR Certification | 2018

Since January of 2019, Frias has also worked as a rehearsal director for Fredrick Earl Mosley, setting choreography at a range of prestigious institutions, including The Ailey School, LaGuardia High School, Marymount Manhattan College, Steps on Broadway, Montclair State University, and Muhlenberg College, to name a few.

Latin Rhythms

Combining traditional bachata, merengue, and salsa social dances with dance-based cardio, Ruddy Frias’ Latin Rhythms class brings culture, exercise, and community together perfectly for all ages and venues!