Marrs is an Iowa-based dancer, choreographer and Associate Professor of Instruction and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Iowa Department of Dance, while Nest is a former regional theater actor and voice and speech professor who now works as an executive coach and communications consultant based in Denver. The two met while teaching at the University of Iowa and began developing Chalk after navigating their own experiences with infertility and miscarriage.

New show developed and performed by Dance Associate Professor Kristin Marrs with collaborator Anne Marie Nest opens discussion on a common issue with devastating effects

In the Fall 2025 semester, Hancher Auditorium welcomed the Trisha Brown Dance Company to the University of Iowa campus for a transformative residency with our students. A new video documented the remarkable experience.

The latest news ands accomplishments from UI Dance faculty, students, and alumni

Free Week returns for its second year from February 16 – 22, 2026, transforming Downtown Iowa City’s Cultural & Entertainment District into a weeklong celebration of creativity, community, and connection.

Dance Assistant Professor Stephanie Miracle was a key collaborator in the project, which brought together academics and artists from across campus to engage the Iowa City community to expand and challenge perceptions of the Iowa River.

Dance Associate Professor Eloy Barragan co-directs the festival with 2022 Dance BFA grad Emily Trapnell.

As the fall semester winds down, we’re looking back at some of the best moments captured by Performing Arts At Iowa photographer Jason Smith.