The Ailey Extension Interview:
What made you want to be a dancer?
I've always been a dancer, whether at a talent show or a summer block party, I was always the little kid dancing in the street to the latest Michael Jackson song. It wasn't until the 8th grade that I realized I could go to school for dance or dance as a job. So that’s really what grabbed me.
Why do you like teaching at the Ailey Extension?
The diversity of students within the Extension program really keeps me on my toes. On any given day, I may have a group of students from all different backgrounds, artistically as well as culturally; some who never stepped foot in a dance class before, some who are current professionals; retired dancers, etc. There are even some who are international visitors who have learned to speak English. Despite all this, I have to ensure that each person who walks through the studio door has the experience as if it was just them, myself and a musician in the room. Unlike any other program, it allows me to connect to other people through this shared love of dance. Plus I enjoy seeing the students grow and realizing how much they've progressed since their first class with me.
More specifically, why do you like to teach Horton?
Horton technique just called to me. Like love at first sight, it's just one of those things you can't explain. When hearing people speak of Lester Horton, you often hear of his charisma, his zest for life, his love of music and movement, and most importantly, his love of people. Because these things were so important to him personally, they make up the fabric of the Horton technique, which grabs people on a personal level.
What kind of student can/should take your class?
EVERYBODY can take my classes. All are welcome. Horton Technique was created using many different types of bodies, to ensure that many different types of bodies could benefit from it for years and years to come. No matter what your goals are: whether to lose weight, or keep the body in shape, or even to be a dancer, everyone is welcome.
Other Ways to Give
The Music of Revelations
