Taylor Made by Faith
Why Dance is More Than Movement: How It Builds Confidence and Creativity As a dancer, and an educator I’ve seen firsthand how dance transforms lives. It’s more than just movement; it’s a medium of self-expression, a tool for building confidence, and a spark for creativity. Whether you’re in a studio or on stage, dance teaches …
2024 Dance Events Wrap-Up: A Year of Transformation and Reflection in the Dance World I’ve always believed that dance reflects the state of our world. This year, 2024, has been no exception. It has been a year of change, loss, and resilience within the dance community. From leadership transitions to profound losses and unexpected collaborations, …
How to Learn to Do a Pirouette Step by Step: Secrets for Success As a dance teacher and a former professional performer, I’ve dedicated years to mastering and teaching the art of pirouettes. They’re one of the most iconic moves in ballet and dance, embodying grace, strength, and control. However, mastering pirouettes requires more than …
Pointe Shoe Prep: How Dancers Get Ready for Class For dancers, preparing pointe shoes is more than just a task—it’s a ritual. Every dancer has their own unique methods and preferences for breaking in and prepping their pointe shoes, often developed over years of practice and performance. As a professional dancer, dance educator, and arts …
Dallas Black Dance Theatre Settlement: A Turning Point in the Dance World The recent settlement between Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) and the dancers who were wrongfully terminated has sparked conversations across the arts community. With DBDT agreeing to pay $560,000 in damages, this case highlights critical issues in the treatment of artists and the …
Starting ballet is an exciting journey for preschoolers and their families. It’s the first step into a world of creativity, discipline, and joy. As a professional dancer, dance educator, and arts administrator, I’ve seen the difference proper attire can make in helping young dancers feel confident and focused. For parents wondering, what should my preschooler wear …
Teaching dance is a rewarding experience, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. Some days, your students might seem more interested in testing boundaries than perfecting their pliés. Managing a misbehaving dance class can feel overwhelming, especially since every student comes from a unique background with different expectations for behavior. However, with the right strategies, …
Teaching ballet fingers can be a nuanced challenge for dance educators. Hands in ballet are not just appendages—they’re an extension of the arms, head, and the overall artistry of the dancer. Fingers must appear soft and graceful, yet held with purpose, while the back provides the tension and support necessary for proper alignment. One of …
The Benefits of a Dance Education Dance is more than just a performance art—it’s a transformative educational experience that fosters creativity, discipline, and self-expression. As a dance educator, I’ve seen firsthand how dance can shape a person’s life, both on and off the stage. In this article, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of a dance …
Why Dancer Mental Health Is So Important As dancers, we often push ourselves to the limit—striving for technical perfection, battling physical exhaustion, and navigating the emotional rollercoaster of performance and rejection. While dance can be a deeply fulfilling art form, it also takes a significant toll on mental health. Looking back on my career as …
