director, choreographer
Carrie Choreography Reel
(Northwestern University, 2024)
Whether working with professionals, college students, or young performers, I focus on creating inclusive environments that foster the artistic growth of myself and my collaborators. Through my work, I am committed to ensuring every story I tell is honest, socially aware, can engage all audiences. I lead with confidence and clarity, guiding creative teams and performers with a strong vision and fostering an environment where collaboration can thrive.
With training in both theatre and dance from Northwestern University, my choreography blends classic musical theatre jazz with dynamic movement inspired by Black pop artists, from Michael Jackson to Beyonce. Movement in the upper body is focused on storytelling through sharp, specific, and clear movement, often leaning into choreographic literalism. The goal is always to aid the audience in understanding, and thus, connecting with, the story. Movement in the lower body is centered around the hips, where movement becomes freer and more expressive. The result is choreography that engages the audience on multiple levels—a blend of aesthetically pleasing, clear, yet visually stimulating imagery with moments of raw, visceral expression.
Notable credits include creating work for Northwestern University (Wirtz Mainstage Productions, Purple Crayon Players, Vibrant Colors Collective, Jewish Theatre Ensemble, and Arts Alliance), Midland Center for the Arts; and Midland Public Schools Drama.
Notable collaborations include serving as Assistant Director/Choreographer to Trent Soyster and Megan Meyer, Assistant for Vasthy Mompoint, as well as Dance Captain for Katharine Quinn and Rachel Perlman.


production content
"
SEUSSICAL (PURPLE CRAYON PLAYERS) - CHOREOGRAPHER

The choreography in Seussical was a burst of fun. Even with a cast primarily made up of singer-first performers, Shelton’s choreography masterfully told the story, infusing the show with energy and creativity that made it truly unforgettable.
Taylor Mcmullen
Executive Director of Sit and Spin Productions




FROG AND TOAD (PURPLE CRAYON PLAYERS) - CHOREOGRAPHER

"
Shelton’s choreography in Frog and Toad was the most in touch with storytelling I’ve ever seen. She created a unique dance language for each character, beautifully lifting the story and bringing the world to life with depth and vibrancy in every moment.
Jordan Klein
Music Director of The 82nd Annual Dolphin Show



CARRIE AT NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY - Choreographer
TEACHING SPOTLIGHT:

“My Shot” Hamilton Workshop - Taught "My Shot" dance combination alongside Karen Olivo (KO) and Alexander Gemignani who taught the music and acting portions of the workshop.
THE GOLDEN LOC AT PLAYGROUND FESTIVAL OF NEW WORK - Director
AMERICAN IDIOT AT ARTS ALLIANCE PRODUCTIONS - Co-Choreographer
YOU'RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN AT VIBRANT COLORS COLLECTIVE - Co-Choreograher
ANNIE AT MIDLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS - Choreographer



























