Trey McIntyre, Lucinda Lent Join BODYTRAFFIC
As BODYTRAFFIC plans for its milestone 20th anniversary and builds on the momentum of a recent $1 million grant from the Perenchio Foundation, the company announces the addition of key artistic and executive collaborators. Choreographer and multidisciplinary artist Trey McIntyre has joined the company as Creative Partner; Lucinda Lent has joined as Executive Consultant, and company members Joan Rodriguez and Katie García have both been promoted to Rehearsal Director.
These company shifts occur at a key growth moment for the company. Founded in Los Angeles in 2007, BODYTRAFFIC is led by Artistic Director Tina Finkelman Berkett. In recent years the company has initiated a significant expansion of performances, programming, and outreach in its home community of Los Angeles, while continuing to tour across the U.S. In 2022, entrepreneur and philanthropist Gillian Wynn joined BODYTRAFFIC as Board President. In 2024, a $1,020,000 multi-year General Operating Support Grant from Perenchio Foundation –the largest grant in the company’s history – was announced, strengthening BODYTRAFFIC’s Los Angeles operations, performances, training programs, and community outreach.
“Since its inception, BODYTRAFFIC has been a home for a wide range of artistic voices and perspectives. Trey, Joan, and Katie each bring a wealth of creativity and experience that will enrich our artistry and programming, and expand our impact within the dance community,” shared BODYTRAFFIC Artistic Director Tina Finkelman Berkett. “We are equally thrilled to welcome Lucinda Lent, whose administrative expertise and visionary leadership will be instrumental in shaping BODYTRAFFIC’s future.”
As Creative Partner, Trey McIntyre will create new work for BODYTRAFFIC in addition to serving as a strategic thought partner, advising on strategic planning, artistic programming, marketing, company operations, and more. BODYTRAFFIC will perform the world premiere of Mayday, McIntyre’s latest work, inspired by the life and music of 1950s rock and roll star Buddy Holly, December 6 and 7 at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. McIntyre set Blue Until June on BODYTRAFFIC in 2023; which the company will perform as part of its Los Angeles and tour repertoire this year. Marina Harss, describes McIntyre’s work for The New York Times as “propulsive athleticism, crisp, detailed footwork and lush coordinations of the body. He also maintained a refreshing openness in his works, a willingness to depict emotions like fear, loneliness and anxiety.”
As Executive Consultant, Lucinda Lent will partner with Berkett and administrative staff to focus on strategy and advancement. Lent, former Executive Director of L.A. Dance Project, led LADP to significant growth during her tenure in both international recognition and financial stability. Lent brings over 20 years of experience in the arts and nonprofit sectors and is expected to play a key role in BODYTRAFFIC’s upcoming initiatives.
BODYTRAFFIC company members Joan Rodriguez and Katie García have both been promoted to Rehearsal Directors. Both artists will support Berkett in rehearsal direction, company management, and more, ensuring a seamless and thoughtful expansion. Both Rodriguez and García joined the company in 2021; they both lead and instruct BODYTRAFFIC community workshops and professional training programs. Rodriguez has choreographed for BODYTRAFFIC including Bloquea’o (created in 2023) and a new work which will premiere in 2025.
BODYTRAFFIC, an internationally-renowned dance company from Los Angeles, has been a dynamic force in contemporary dance since its founding in 2007 by Artistic Director Tina Finkelman Berkett. Known for technical prowess and versatility, BODYTRAFFIC artists expertly master a repertoire that spans ballet, contemporary, modern, Afro-Cuban, and hip hop genres. BODYTRAFFIC aims to champion both established and emerging voices, serving as a home for a diverse range of styles and perspectives that tell vital stories. By blending local and global perspectives, BODYTRAFFIC reflects the rich diversity of its home city while pushing the boundaries of dance.
Lucinda Lent (photo by Diego Uchitel), Joan Rodriguez (photo by Trey McIntyre), Katie Garcia (photo by Guzman Rosado), Trey McIntyre (photo courtesy of the artist)