Recognized as a Southern Cultural Treasure, Collage Dance is a Memphis-based ballet company dedicated to presenting world-class dance and expanding access to classical ballet. Founded in 2006 by Marcellus Harper and Kevin Thomas, Collage relocated to Memphis in 2007 and has since grown into one of the largest Black-led performing arts organizations in the South and among the 50 largest ballet companies in the United States.

Celebrated for its artistic excellence, cultural relevance, and dynamic repertoire, Collage brings together professional dancers from around the world to perform works by distinguished and emerging choreographers. Its programming honors ballet's rich traditions while championing contemporary voices, diverse perspectives, and stories that expand the possibilities of the art form.

Beyond the stage, Collage is committed to developing the next generation of artists. Its nationally recognized conservatory and community engagement programs serve approximately 1,000 students weekly, creating pathways to professional dance careers and higher education.Harper has guided Collage’s growth with a commitment to artistic excellence and access. Today, Collage ranks among the 50 largest ballet companies in the United States, serves approximately 1,000 students weekly, and reaches tens of thousands of audience members annually. Its conservatory has developed a pipeline of young artists who have earned millions in college scholarships and advanced to leading universities and professional dance programs.

Harper led Collage’s $11 million Breaking Through Capital Campaign, which funded the Andrea Louise Jenkins Center for Dance, and has spearheaded fundraising efforts generating more than $30 million in philanthropic support over five years.

Previously, Harper helped establish the Transportation Security Administration as a Program Analyst with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He also worked in corporate marketing for Marriott International and coordinated projects with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Harvard University supporting HIV/AIDS research and treatment in Africa.

A former Meyerhoff Scholar at the University of Maryland Baltimore County and two-time national NAACP ACT-SO medalist, Harper holds a bachelor’s degree in nonprofit administration and performing arts. He received the Memphis Urban League Young Professionals’ Change Artist Award.