Hobbies Matter

My mom gifted me a tutu at two years old, and that was it, my future as a dancer had begun. I’m now a professional dancer, trained and accomplished in many styles, including Pointé, Ballet, Contemporary, Tap, Hip-Hop, African, and more. On stage, the blue lights stand for places and the white lights call for action, ultimately signaling the personal transformation I will have; morphing into my truest form. When I dance I listen for the soft sniffle of an audience member, as they reach for a tissue to wipe their tears of gratitude. This moment breaks the brief moment of silence that travels throughout the theater as a dance culminates. I begin to feel completely free and happy as I run off into the wings smiling at the roaring applause of the audience sounding in the background. What I find most rewarding about dance is how any fear, doubt, or frustration I have about my life is completely defeated when I perform. I’ve danced pieces about Rosa Parks, soldiers in war, slavery, rape, women’s rights, and so many more powerful topics; but I have also danced lighthearted pieces about board games, joy, and rejoice in the church. Choreographing took these interests further, allowing me to tell stories about a wide variety of things. I’ve created solos about police brutality, George Floyd, covid-19, and recently I created a solo about the Movement to protect black women. I’m able to create art with my body, showing my passion and struggle for activism with every battement and pirouette. Every dollop of sweat produced from my body as I dance fights to tell my story. My choreography shows the work that has been done and unveils the work that needs to be continued in the world. I've traveled the country to share my talents with tens of thousands of people. I’ve won awards, received accolades, and even received scholarships; but the most humbling part of my craft is when I take a bow. I lower my head, lean over slightly, and give thanks to those who witnessed my work hoping they have embraced my vision.