As I grow in my role as an instructor and choreographer, I have reflected on my dance journey and the people who influenced me through teaching. Most of my free time growing up was spent in the dance studio under the instruction of Jennifer Picart Branner, or as I know her, Ms. Jen. When I consider the kind of teacher I am today and the teacher I hope to be, I often draw from my experiences as a student. Under the instruction of Ms. Jen, I felt a sense of accountability and support that allowed me to develop self-discipline positively. Through the intentional teaching methods modeled for me growing up, I grew as a dancer and a person. I attempt to inspire my classroom in the same way I felt inspired as a young dancer through modeling the importance of self-worth and resilience while creating a positive learning environment.
Read MoreIn many professional industries, but particularly in dance, versatility can be a vital asset to an individual’s career. Having the ability to be light on your feet, expert across numerous genres, and adaptable to rapid changes can help elevate a dancer both on and off the stage. That is why versatility is an important part of Allegro Performing Arts Academy’s goal. By providing dancers with robust dance training in a variety of styles and offering programs to an assortment of ages and levels, Owner Tonya Goodwillie and the rest of Allegro’s staff strive to bring something to the table for everyone.
Read MorePartnering in dance is a beautiful thing. The agility, strength, and trust shown between two dancers is a breathtaking connection to watch. The grace of the dancer being lifted blended with the power of the dancer doing the lifting can make a piece mesmerizing. I love watching it, I love choreographing it, and I especially love exploring new ways to create unique, organic movement between two people.
Read MoreThe COVID-19 pandemic isn’t the only phenomenon that’s caused the dance community to be a bit disjointed. A culture of competition and perfectionism has permeated the dance world, causing many dancers to see others as rivals rather than peers. To help alleviate the challenges that this type of environment can bring about, 17-year-old Samantha Parr has created the organization Dancer for Dancer to unite the dance community through open discussions, mental health support, and mentorship. Through Dancer for Dancer’s Pal Program and with the help of Pal Program coordinators like DWC staff member Emma Neilson, the organization is providing connection and support to dancers worldwide.
Read MoreIf you are a friend of mine or have even been following me on social media, you'll know that epilepsy is a topic I care very passionately about. It's something that has affected my family for a little over seven years now. More specifically, my sibling, Hanna was diagnosed with epilepsy when they were seven years old, and I like to think that I’m well educated on the topic. I'm a major advocate for spreading awareness about different types of seizures and seizure first aid and debunking misinformation. I find great importance in educating others on seizures and epilepsy.
Read MoreIf you’ve ever searched “how to get a higher extension,” “how to break in pointe shoes,” or any other ballet-related question on YouTube, chances are you’ve come across a video by the incomparable Claudia Dean. Claudia Dean is undeniably a household name in the realm of online dance content. From private coaching to luxury dancewear to viral video tutorials, there seems to be nothing that the founder of Claudia Dean World can’t tackle. Claudia Dean World strives to “welcome dancers at any stage of their journey” and foster a positive community through global connection. But how exactly did the former Royal Ballet company member get here?
Claudia began dancing at age four because her best friend wanted her to join her class. She decided to stick with it and continue her training, eventually getting accepted into the Australian Ballet School’s Intra/Interstate & International Training Programme (ITP). After getting accepted into such a rigorous program, it occurred to Claudia that she might have a shot at making a career for herself in classical ballet. She continued dancing at her local studio, but around 14-15 years old she started training full-time on the Gold Coast of Australia, about two hours away from her home in Brisbane. “I was actually living away from home, which is a really good experience,” Claudia explains, as she learned how to cook, do laundry, and more all by herself at a young age.
Read MoreAs children, partaking in extracurricular activities outside of school isn’t just an option, it’s downright encouraged. Our parents sign us up for anything they can to keep our bodies active and our minds engaged: soccer teams, chess clubs, dance classes, you name it. When we transition into high school, we’re encouraged to volunteer, join sports teams, and get involved in our community to bolster our college applications. We channel our time, energy, blood, sweat, and tears into these activities. In many cases, they transform from being mere hobbies to intense passions that help us persevere through our awkward adolescent years.
Read More'Suck in' 'Engage your core'. Two phrases that seemed synonymous to me in dance. I remember learning proper ballet technique with the image of a corset. During barre, my instructor would inhale sharply, shrinking her waist while pointing at me to do the same. A silent reminder that good posture included a sucked-in stomach.
Read MoreIn this article, I will dive deeper into the topics of disability and ableism. I understand that these topics can be sensitive and triggering to some folks. However, I think that these subjects need to be brought to more people’s attention because I don’t hear nearly enough said about them. I also hear a lot of incorrect information around these issues, so my goal is to advocate and educate.
Read MoreIf you had a chance to read my “get to know me” blog, you know I have been dancing since I was 5 and now at almost 30 dance is still a huge passion I continue to pursue. Growing up I participated in competitions, I auditioned for and attended a ballet intensive as a sophomore in high school , went the route of adding on dance team in high school and college, sprinkled in some musical theatre experience
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