Tatiana Desardouin’s identity and experience are critical components of her work as a performer, choreographer, and artistic director. Born in Switzerland to Haitian parents, Desardouin developed a strong sense of self by developing connections with the Haitian and the wider African diasporic community. Desardouin found dance as an avenue for expression, growth, and a source of purpose, dancing at Haitian cultural events and in clubs and community spaces.

“The foundation of my art is my deep commitment to recognizing and preserving all of Black culture’s contributions to dance and society,” says Desardouin. “I believe that dance is a source of empowerment that can unify people while building individual confidence and identities.”

Desardouin’s artistic practice centers on hip-hop and house dance. She began teaching dance in 2005, and founded Geneva’s first hip-hop dance school and company, “Le Centre Hip-Hop.” Desardouin has a master’s degree in education, which informs her approach as an instructor. In 2007 she became a member and curator with JAIA—a Geneva-based nonprofit focused on developing and promoting hip-hop culture through workshops, classes, and competitions. Desardouin has won awards for her performances at major hip-hop and house dance competitions throughout Europe and the United States.

In both her practice and teaching, Desardouin emphasizes the concept of “groove,” an element that centers the necessity of the dancer’s presence—as creator, conduit, and subject—in the work. Desardouin’s “groove” pays homage to the temporality of dance and performance. With groove, the artist is fully present in their work, bringing their authentic self to the execution of each movement, transcending performance.

I believe that dance is a source of empowerment that can unify people while building individual confidence and identities.

In 2016, Desardouin immigrated to the United States, where she founded and established Passion Fruit Dance Company with core members Mai Lê Hô and Lauriane Ogay. With Passion Fruit, Desardouin has presented and performed at the Apollo Theater, Alvin Ailey Dance Studios, Joe’s Pub, Jacob’s Pillow, and Montréal Arts Interculturels. In September 2021, Desardouin and Passion Fruit Dance begin a 10-month residency at the 92nd Street Y.

Awards and Accomplishments

• 25 to Watch, Dance Magazine (2020)
• Winner, All Styles Battle, Just for Laughs (2016)
• Winner, All Style Category, Clash sph Battle (2014)
• Winner, House Dance Category, Juste Debout, Marseille (2010)