Daniel Clifton

Daniel Clifton is an Associate Professor (Lecturer) in the School of Dance at the University of Utah, where he has been teaching since 2014. His diverse academic positions include Visiting Assistant Professor (2014-2016), Visiting Assistant Professor (2016-2017), and Assistant Professor (Lecturer) (2017-2023) before his current role. He has also taught at The University of the Arts, Florida State University, Lehman College, Hollins University, Sarah Lawrence College, and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, with international teaching experience at the American Dance Festival, ADF China, and the Korean Dance Festival.

• Education:
  • BFA in Dance from Florida State University (1998)
  • MFA in Dance from Hollins University/American Dance Festival (2007)

Clifton's research and creative works blend dance, choreography, music composition, and multidisciplinary performance. His projects often explore themes of environmental change, emotional complexity, and sociopolitical dynamics through innovative movement and sound integration.

His scholarly outputs include choreographic works like Storyograph (2025), Shore/Baltic (2024), and greenland (2023), which demonstrate a trend of combining contemporary dance with experimental music and global environmental narratives.

• Scientific & Artistic Awards:
  • Åland Island Guest Artist Residence (2024), Kökar, Finland

Clifton has received grants, including the Åland Island Guest Artist Residence, and actively collaborates with Satu Hummasti and the Salt Lake Electric Ensemble. He has premiered works at international festivals and venues such as Henry Street Settlement, The Kitchen, and ADF China.