
Dear IABD Family,
It is with deep regret that we inform you about a recent loss to for the Duke Ellington School of the Arts community. On September 10, 2017 Mr. Neil Whitehead, a beloved dance instructor passed away suddenly. The faculty, students, and staff of Duke Ellington wish to extend their deepest sympathy and heart-felt condolences to the family, relatives and many friends of Mr. Whitehead. This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for the entire school, especially their students. Neil had recently participated in his first IABD Conference and Festival this past January 2017 in Dallas, TX.
Neil was born in Baltimore, MD and at age 12 began dancing at the Peabody preparatory school located in Baltimore, MD. After two years of studying dance, Neil was invited to train in Baltimore Dance Theater and came to be the youngest member. He studied musical theatre at Morgan State University. After he left Baltimore to go to Washington D.C., he studied and danced with Jones Haywood School of Dance and Capitol Ballet. Neil also trained in New York City with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Dance Theatre of Harlem and traveled internationally to China, Japan, and Mexico. Mike Malone, one of Duke Ellington School of the Arts founders, transformed his life from a classical ballet dancer to an exceptional dancer of many genres. His performance credits include "The Wiz", (Yellow Brick Road), "Bubbling Brown Sugar" (Checkers), and "San Kafa" (Snake).
Information regarding Neil Whitehead's services are forthcoming.
Sincerely,
Duke Ellington School of the Arts
International Association of Blacks in Dance