Introduction Dance is more than just movement. It’s a powerful tool that helps children develop essential life skills while having fun. Whether in a dance studio, at school, or in the living room, dance games offer a fantastic way to improve coordination and build confidence. As a dance teacher and parent, I’ve seen firsthand how …
Dancer’s Diet: What to Eat for Energy, Endurance, and Recovery
Note: This is based on my personal experience. I’m not a doctor or a licensed nutritionist. If you have specific dietary needs or health concerns, please talk to a professional. Introduction Dancers put in just as much physical effort as athletes. Whether you’re in the middle of a long rehearsal, teaching back-to-back classes, or training …
The Ultimate Dance Teacher Survival Guide: Tips for Avoiding Burnout
Teaching dance is one of the most rewarding careers, (I would definitely know, as I have been teaching dance since the age of 16 and could not image my life at this point without it.) But it also comes with its challenges. Between long hours, physically demanding classes, and the emotional investment in students, burnout …
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 …
The Best Music for Ballet Class
The Best Music for Ballet Class: Why Nate Fifield is My Go-To Artist Teaching ballet for the past 13 years has given me the opportunity to experiment with different music styles, albums, and playlists. Over time, I’ve found that not all ballet music is created equal—some albums make it easier to structure a class, while …
From the Super Bowl to Budget Cuts: The Hypocrisy of America’s Relationship with the Arts
Sitting here watching the Super Bowl, I can’t help but think about all the ways art is deeply woven into this event. At the same time, arts programs are constantly on the chopping block. The halftime show, the logo, the choreography, the music. IT IS ALL ART. And not just any art. This year’s Super …
Women’s History Month Lesson Plans for Elementary School Dance Classes (Kindergarten – 5th Grade)
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. Incorporating Women’s History Month into your elementary school dance class provides a fun and engaging way to teach students about influential women in the arts, culture, and history while promoting movement and creativity. This week-long lesson plan is …
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 …