March is Dance in Schools Month: Why We Need #DanceEducationForALL

Every March, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education, we recognize Dance in Schools Month, a time to highlight the importance of dance education and advocate for #DanceEducationForALL. As someone who started as a dance educator in underfunded schools, I’ve seen firsthand how dance changes lives. Many of my students faced challenges outside the …

Saturday Morning Ballet Class: A Nostalgic Rite of Passage

There’s something undeniably special about Saturday morning ballet class. It’s not just the pink tights, the soft leather ballet slippers, or the adorable bags shaped like oversized ballet shoes. It’s the tradition, the ritual, and the nostalgia that swirl together, creating cherished memories that linger long after childhood. For me, the journey began in the …

Why it is important to preserve cultural heritage through community arts

Cultural heritage is more than a record of the past, it’s a living, evolving art form that connects communities, shapes identities, and paves the way for future generations. In this article, I explore how community arts serve as a powerful medium to preserve traditions, celebrate diversity, and inspire personal journeys. Embracing Cultural Heritage and Community …

Donald Trump’s Takeover of the Kennedy Center Sparks Backlash from Artists

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in the United States, is facing controversy after President Donald Trump was elected as chairman. This move has led to strong reactions from the arts community, with notable figures like Issa Rae canceling scheduled performances and others severing ties with the …

Why Arts Funding Matters: Advocating for the Future of the Arts

Tomorrow, I will be attending the Fulton County Board of Commissioners budget meeting to advocate for something that has shaped my career and the lives of countless artists, arts funding. As I step into my new role at Ballethnic, I recognize how vital these resources are in keeping the arts alive, especially in times when funding …

Celebrating Women in Dance: Trailblazers Who Shaped the Industry

Introduction Dance has always been a space where stories are told, cultures are preserved, and barriers are broken. Women have played a significant role in shaping the art form—pushing creative boundaries, breaking racial and gender barriers, and redefining what’s possible on stage and beyond. As we celebrate International Women’s Day (March 8, 2025), it’s the …

Imposter Syndrome in Dance: Let’s Talk About It

Whether you are a dancer, dance teacher, or dance student, we have all encountered imposter syndrome at some point in our journey. That nagging feeling that we’re not good enough, not talented enough, or not knowledgeable enough—it creeps in despite our experience, training, and achievements. I wish there were more conversations around this topic. Imposter …

The Power of Representation in Ballet

I Am My Ancestors’ Wildest Dreams As an African American ballet teacher, I dance Black history,Every plié, every leap, a whispered legacy.It doesn’t fall short on meThe roads paved in blood, sweat, and dignity,The sacrifices made so I could stand free,So I could teach, so I could be. I am my ancestors’ wildest dreams,A vision …

Dance Friends: Bonds That Last a Lifetime

Dance friends are truly some of the best friends you’ll ever have. The unique bond formed in the studio, on stage, and during rehearsals creates friendships that stand the test of time. From personal experience and the dancers, I’ve taught, I can confidently say that dance friendships are unlike any other. Here’s why these connections …