Guard Closet Welcomes Dalton Stout: Design, Choreography & Strategy Built for Real Programs
Dalton V. Stout is officially joining Guard Closet as a Brand Manager, and we’re excited for what that means for directors, instructors, and performers who want work that feels intentional, musical, and actually teachable.
Dalton’s core belief is simple: movement isn’t just motion — it’s presence and intent. That philosophy shows up in everything he builds: choreography with clear phrasing, instruction that breaks down “world-class” into achievable steps, and performance choices that read from the stands. (daltonvstout.com)
Watch: Dalton Stout Shares His Experience & Education
This video is a great starting point if you’re getting to know Dalton’s background, training, and what shaped his approach as an educator and creative.
Who Dalton Is
Dalton is a performer, teacher, choreographer, and design strategist based in Dacono, Colorado. His work centers on building creative experiences through technical instruction, design consultation, and visual strategy. (Home)
What he prioritizes
Presence: turning transitions into statements and counts into connection.
Creativity: design that mirrors the music and elevates a program’s identity.
Empowerment: breaking down high-level technique into accessible steps so performers build confidence through clarity. (The Artist)
Academic foundation
Dalton holds a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL). (Academic Foundation)
Experience
He brings experience from years in scholastic and independent groups, building programs rooted in inclusivity and healthy performer relationships with both the art and themselves. (Experience)
Performance highlights
Onyx Independent World (2021–2022), Pride of Cincinnati (2020), Disney & Saks 5th Ave (2019), Juxtaposition (2019), Railmen Independent (2018), The Cavaliers (2015–2017), Nebraska Cornhusker Band (2014–2017), O.N.E. Independent (2015–2016). (Performer)
Instructional history
Onyx IA/IW, Spirit of Atlanta, Collage IA, Colt Cadets, St. Clairsville HS, Hilliard Darby HS, Central Crossing HS, Rampart HS, North Point HS, Thomas Worthington HS, Dublin Scioto HS. (Instructional History)
What Dalton Brings to Guard Closet Programs
Dalton’s work is especially strong for programs that want to level up while staying true to their identity. His writing is musical, his teaching is structured, and his strategy is practical.
- Choreography + visual strategy: high-contrast design built for impact, where every transition has purpose.
- Technique that transfers: instruction that isolates the root cause, not just the symptom.
- Performance clarity: helping performers understand what the audience should feel, not just what the hands should do. Watch this Instagram video
Explore Dalton’s work and credits: daltonvstout.com/works
DVS Virtual Studio (On-Demand Coaching)
Dalton’s DVS Virtual Studio is built for performers who need feedback when they’re stuck — not just when a weekly schedule allows. Upload your work, receive frame-by-frame direction, and improve on your own timeline. (Virtual Studio)
- The Clip ($10): up to 60 seconds; frame-by-frame voiceover breakdown + one drill to fix the root cause.
- The Scene ($25): full run-through analysis; director’s commentary + a custom set of 5 drills.
- The Residency ($90/month): weekly review (4 “Scene Studies” per month) + access to the DVS learning community.
Note: Dalton’s page also shares that (in the spirit of Black History Month) proceeds from these lessons are donated to the National Immigrant Justice Center. (Details)
DVS Studio Rental (Colorado)
If you’re local (or traveling through), Dalton also offers studio rental through DVS Studio — a hybrid creative space designed for movement artists and content creators.
- 1,100 sq. ft. with 24 ft ceilings (fly & toss safe)
- Rubberized base + 12’ x 24’ vinyl floor
- Lighting options, audio playback, add-ons for cinema camera + mics
- Quick Drill tier starts at $25 for 30 minutes
Full specs + booking: daltonvstout.com/book-studio
Photo Gallery
Images below are embedded from Dalton’s performer gallery.
Dalton Stout Cavaliers Drum Corps PhotoWork With Dalton Through Guard Closet
Dalton is now part of the Guard Closet network for programs looking for choreography, design strategy, and instruction that supports both performer growth and show clarity.
- Design Closet: guardcloset.com/design
- Sell/Consign to fund your season: guardcloset.com/sell
- Program Microsites: guardcloset.com/microsites
- Marching arts gifts: gifts.guardcloset.com
Want to connect with Dalton directly? Start here: daltonvstout.com/contact
Follow: @SaltyDalti