About Carmen Savage

Carmen Savage is a distinguished movement artist from Memphis, Tennessee. She began her artistic journey at a young age as a competitive baton twirler, participating in numerous competitions and talent showcases. During her preteen years, she discovered her passion for Memphis Jookin, a culturally rich street dance style originating from her hometown. This ignited a profound love for free-styling and competitive battling, leading her to pursue a career in the dance industry with unwavering dedication. 

Carmen recognized the commitment required to excel in this field and immersed herself in formal training throughout high school, which allowed her to travel nationally and hone her skills under the guidance of industry professionals. 

Continuing her academic and artistic pursuits, she attended the University of Memphis, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Human Performance, with a concentration in Exercise Sports Science and a minor in Dance. 

Throughout her dynamic career, Carmen has made significant contributions to the arts, being featured in music videos, commercials, and live stage performances. She has taught thousands of aspiring dancers and has choreographed numerous award-winning Hip Hop routines, showcasing her innovative approach and expertise. 

One of her notable achievements includes being selected for the prestigious Monsters of Hip Hop cast in 2016, a testament to her talent and dedication to the craft. 

Currently, Carmen is focused on teaching and choreographing, while continuing her training as a dancer. She is committed to elevating her career in the commercial dance industry, poised to make a lasting impact.  

Education

Bachelors of Science, University of Memphis Health & Human Performance - Concentration: Exercise Sports Science,  Minor: Dance 

Certified Personal Trainer: National Academy of Sports Medicine  

 

Experience 

Adjunct Professor, 2025 - present 

Ballet Memphis Summer Intensives, 2016-2019 

Company Teacher & Competition Choreographer 

Studio 413, 2015 - Present 

Memphis Jewish Community Center - Markel School of Dance, 2014 - 2017 

 

Stage Performances & Dance Work 

Opera Memphis “La Calisto”, 2025 

Tony Pollard- “That’s Being Memphis Made” - NFL , 2023 

Monsters of Hip Hop - “Driven” , 2016 

Memphis Grizzlies- Mike Conley “Our Conductor”, 2016 

Ballet Memphis “World Wonders”, 2015 

Memphis Music Hall of Fame: Justin Timberlake, 2015 

Memphis Grizzlies- Marc Gasol: ESPN, 2015 

Memphis Grizzlies “Grit Grind Squad”, 2012-2017 

Drake “Worst Behavior” Music Video, 2013 

 

Honors and Awards 

A host of choreography awards 

Best Hip Hop Performance: Industry Dance Awards Runner Up, 2023 

Monsters of Hip Hop Cast, 2016  

Queen of Memphis Jookin, 2014 

Destined 2 Dance Best Female Hip Hop Choreographer, 2012