Meet the Founder
Liv Eddings is a choreographer, arts educator, and arts administrator. She graduated from the University of Maryland and during her time there she won several accolades including the Erica Thimey Award for Outstanding Service in Dance Production. In early dance training, Liv didn’t commit to studying one particular dance style, but used her broad dance education and West African influences to develop a style that felt like home for her. This transition of denying conformation and developing the “home” movement birthed some of her most traveled dance works.
Liv is currently co-directing the dance residency and production Sidewalk in the Sea (SIS) with dance educator Christina Alemayehu. Sidewalk in the Sea (in reference to Exodus 14:22) explores the journey of life with God including the beauty, the frustrations, and the transformation that unfolds along the way. Rooted in the belief that every individual is uniquely purposed, SIS uses dance to reflect how our questions, suffering, and surrender can lead to divine renewal.
In all her work, Liv helps dancers rediscover their “why,” connect with their “home” movement. and develop the technique, discipline, and artistic language needed to thrive in their God-given purpose with confidence and clarity. In rehearsal spaces she focuses on the mental, physical, and spiritual growth of dance artists as well as promoting healthy collaboration amongst artists, creating work through honest and vulnerable teachings, and developing artistic practices that use the power of the arts to change lives. As a choreographer, she delves into storytelling in a way that is not abstract, but obvious, because her messages of choice are too important to get lost in translation.
Working with Liv on The Black Smile dance film evolved my artistry as a choreographer and dancer. She puts the dancers first… before the project or the gig. Their presence and how they show up in the space are priorities for her. She focuses on the process and the quality of work. Additionally, she is intentional with each and every choice on and off the dance floor. Liv is a true storyteller and a wonderful artist to work with! I would work with her again, no questions asked!
-Shartoya Jn.Baptiste/Choreographer/Dance Educator/Co-Director for The Black Smile Dance Film
About Us
Graced Training Center was born from a shared longing among dancers across the DMV. Artists who love their craft yet struggle to find a place to train consistently, safely, and authentically at any stage of life. Many of us began dancing in spaces that felt free and expressive, only to encounter systems that prioritized performance, competition, and perfection over identity, growth, and care.
GTC was created in response to that gap.
Our founder’s journey reflects what so many dancers experience quietly. Starting later than expected. Navigating institutions not built with us in mind. Wrestling with belonging. Realizing how easily the heart of dance can be lost in the pursuit of roles and results. In conversations with friends, collaborators, mentors, and students, the pattern became clear. Committed dancers, teens and adults alike, were craving access to grounded, purpose driven training that honored both technique and individuality.
At GTC, training is not a race toward an aesthetic or outcome. It is a process of becoming. We help dancers rediscover their why, reconnect with their home movement language, and build the strength, discipline, and clarity needed to move with confidence. Our work centers the elements of dance and foundational technique as tools for expression, supporting artists in developing not just skill, but voice.
We believe it is never too late to be shaped and refined. Whether you are just beginning, returning after time away, or rebuilding after a professional season that left you disconnected, GTC meets you where you are and prepares you for where you are going. Our approach centers identity over image, purpose over pressure, and long-term growth over momentary achievement.
Every dancer who enters is treated as a contributor, not just a participant. We create spaces where artists can speak, explore, take risks, and be seen. Where community replaces competition and the process is honored as much as the performance. Our goal however, is not for you to remain in this place. We want to be the bridge that guides you to where you are meant to be, and a home to return to whenever you need refinement, remembering, or a fresh encounter with the artist you’re becoming.
