Taylor Made by Faith
When Dance Becomes an Investment Strategy I have been thinking a lot about where dance is going. Not just dance as an art form. Not just dance as a class, recital, or performance. But dance as an industry. Over the past few years, we have seen more conversations around dance competitions, conventions, youth training, and …
There’s a question I want you to think about for a second: What options did a Black dancer have in the 1930s if they wanted to become a professional dancer? The answer is difficult to hear. Almost none. Major ballet companies would not accept Black dancers. The concert dance world largely ignored Black artistry. Many …
If you’ve been anywhere near the dance world this week, you’ve already heard the news: New York City Ballet has pulled out of their season at the Kennedy Center. And I just need to talk about it — because this is so much bigger than one company canceling a show. This is about what happens …
Ballet is one of the world’s most elegant art forms — every movement precise, every detail meaningful. But beneath the grace and discipline of classical dance lies a history that’s far less beautiful. Today we’re confronting one of ballet’s most uncomfortable truths: the history of blackface in ballet. This isn’t just about outdated makeup or …
When Misty Copeland appeared on stage at the Oscars last night, ballet briefly took center stage in front of millions of viewers around the world. For many audience members, it was simply a beautiful performance tied to the film Sinners. But for dancers and people familiar with ballet history, the moment carried a deeper meaning. …
When people hear about the Great Depression, they often imagine economic hardship, unemployment, and uncertainty. It was one of the most difficult financial periods in American history. Families lost jobs, homes, and stability. But something remarkable was happening culturally at the exact same time. During this era of economic struggle, one of the most influential …
There is something really special about teaching dance during Women’s History Month. Especially when most of the faces staring back at you are young girls. With International Women’s Day happening on March 8th, I’ve been thinking about what I truly want the girls in my dance classes to know. Not just about technique. Not just …
Is dance a sport?Is it art?Or is it something completely different? If you’ve been in the dance world for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard this debate. I’ve heard it my entire life, as a public school dance teacher, studio instructor, professional performer, and now working in arts administration for a professional company here …
This past weekend, I had the opportunity to attend the International Association of Blacks in Dance Conference here in Atlanta, Georgia. And I didn’t leave with a five-year plan. I left with questions. This is not a recap of classes taken or performances watched. It’s not a review. It’s not a highlight reel. It’s a …
I want to start by saying this plainly: this is not a hot take. This is not outrage. This is not me trying to stir the pot. These are reflections. As a dance educator, arts advocate, former professional dancer, and arts administrator working in Atlanta, I spend a lot of time thinking about how America …
