Trinity Arts Dance Academy - Livermore Dance and Arts

New York Choreographer & MTV Award Nominee
Choreographer For Thalia, Mariah Carey & Michael Jackson

Believe it or not the Choreographer/Dancer who spent close to a decade creating the moves behind the world famous Mariah Carey, originally wanted to be an Astronaunt. Whether on video or live performances, Mariah soared to fame assisted by the moves of “Emilio Austin, Jr., p.k.a., “Buddha Stretch.” His dance crew, Elite Force provided the edge behind Mariah’s well known videos and live shows. Though being an Astronaunt was his dream, it ended when he first saw the television show Soul Train. His other influences included his cousin Charles, Michael Jackson (the early years), The Lockers and The Electric Boogaloos. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York with three sisters and one younger brother, Stretch was influenced by his dad Emilio Austin, Sr.. His Dad danced as a youth and provided Stretch with discipline, inspiration, support and motivation and remained by his side to guide him throughout his career. This foundation carries Stretch, a father himself, throughout his personal and professional career today.

Stretch heavily impacted the dance world by bridging the gap between what was termed, Ol’ Skool and New Skool. His dance style, known as “Freestyle Hip Hop” draws from all aspects of hip hop culture, music and dance. These moves during the early days of music videos helped to launch the popularity of dance in this medium as well as live shows. Stretch’s first audition was for “The Dance Theater of Harlem” however, he left after seeing dancers in leotards and tights. His first video was with Eric B & Rakim, “Eric B for President.” He met the members of his first dance crew “Mop Top” at a music video audition they booked for Diana Ross, “Working Overtime.” They began to hang out at New York’s night spot, The Tunnel and later formed their crew. He later formed a crewed called “Elite Force” who pre peared in documentaries, music videos, live shows and in countless projects overseas. His first choreography job was for Joeski Love (Pee Wee Dance) and went on to work with the likes of Rosie Perez, Will Smith in the “Men In Black” and “Miami” videos; Michael Jackson’s “Remember The Time” video (his most memorable experience) and more. He was nominated for two MTV Awards for ‘Best Choreography’ for the Will Smith videos “Men In Black,” “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It”, and “Miami”. Recent credits include choreography for “Virgin recording artist ‘Thalia’ ( on Good Morning America) ,” “Aida,” Tony Award Winner, “Heather Headley,” “Hot ’97 Air Personality, “Angie Martinez and rapper Rah Diggah.” In 1989, Stretch was the first Hip Hop dancer to teach Hip Hop in a mainstream dance studio – New York’s Broadway Dance Center.

Stretch is no stranger to music. An MC and writer himself, he recorded an underground hit called “It Don’t Matter” by Ten Thieves and continues to make music today. His versatility is also displayed by his participation as a dancer and contributing choreographer for the Dance Theater crew “Full Circle and Co-Artistic Director of the Dance Theatre Company “MiddleGround.” His trend setting style keeps him in demand as a choreographer, dancer, teacher and performer. His passion for dance is exhibited every time you experience his work. Stretch believes “music is the universal language; dance is it’s interpreter.”