Meoleaeke Arebreone Jones (Monte)

Dancer

Monte is one of those original house heads and an amazing dancer, choreographer and master teacher! He received a BFA in Dance and Choreography and a B.A. in Religious Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. He studied Capoeira under Cobra Mansa and worked in New York City with Ron K. Brown, Marleas Yearby and Niles Ford where he was described as offering “a powerful solo in which his twisting motions became signs of turbulent and unquenchable passions” (New York Times). 'Monte' has performed with Holly Bass Dance Theatre Company in Washington, DC and performed Solo Works at Dance Place also in DC. He studied and danced at VCU with national and international artists such as Chris Burnside, Earl Moslely Jr., Ralph Lemon, Doug Verone, Diana McIntyre, Donalds McKawle, Carmen de Lavallade, Bill T.Jones, Susan Kekuchi of Martha Graham, Richard Move, Gus Solomon Jr., Doug Neilson, Ronald K. Brown. He toured and taught with international drummer, Daniel Shrug with his educational program through North and South Carolina. He collaborates regularly with world percussionist, Dr. Ram Bhagat of Drums No Guns on creating cultural events for conciliation. He has performed with international Cuban percussionist, MELENA in 'MELENA: A Cultural & Musical Journey into my Afro-Cuban Roots'. He also choreographed and performed in CLAVES UNIDOS' original production of 'Black Orpheus and the Mountain', an urban ballet based on his own life and near-death experience. He was one of the original professional company and principal dancer of the Latin Ballet of Virginia which was his dance home for over 14 years. He has also appeared in numerous Hip Hop and R&B videos in New York, Washington DC and Richmond, VA. Monte is coming back with all his passion and energy for the Latin Ballet of Virginia this season 2020-2021 starting with EL BESO DE LA ABEJA (Kiss of the Bee) production.