The Ailey School

Benoit-Swan Pouffer is a critically-acclaimed choreographer representing an innovative, less formalized approach to dance. Born and raised in Paris, he studied as a dancer at the prestigious Conservatoire National Superieur de Musique et de Danse. Early in his career he took first place in the Benetton European Dance Competition before dancing for seven years with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where he was a principal dancer. Benoit-Swan then spent a decade as Artistic Director for the Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet company which was named by the New York Times, “a New York success story, possibly the country’s most innovative contemporary ballet troupe with an A-list repertoire, and an accent on creation that few companies worldwide can match.” He was also featured in and created the dance sequences for the major motion picture "The Adjustment Bureau," including original choreography for the film’s leading lady Emily Blunt. His work on the film earned him a 2011 Fred and Adele Astaire award nomination for Best Film Choreography. Other works include "Ellie Goulding AMEX Unstaged" directed by Scarlett Johansson, and the popular American dance competition, "So You Think You Can Dance." Additionally, Benoit Swan choreographed "Dangerous Beauty" at the Pasadena Playhouse directed by Tony nominee Sheryl Kaller, and the musical "Amazing Grace" directed by Gabriel Barre and performed at Goodspeed Opera House.