"In dance, you're always growing and always learning … living in a realm of constant evolution. " Meet DeShon

"I dance because there is nothing more powerful than creating. Dance is an expression of art that allows anyone to feel all types of emotion through the movement of the body. It is so incredibly amazing to be able take a canvas of movement and create artistry. " Daniella of STAVNA Ballet

"Born in raised in RVA I've always had a passion for Art, Dance, and Music since I was born! .. You would think I came out the womb dancing like a true prodigy... WRONG ! ..I couldn't even clap on beat until the age of 13.."  - J.Static, Latin Ballet Company

"However, what is meant to be will be and I was meant for dancing. "

For me, this experience is where I've always wanted to be… To be a part of something bigger than myself. To contribute to this art - the amazing art of ballet - in a meaningful way. But... I wasn't sure it would ever be a possibility. 

"I’ve had the incredibly unique opportunity to work with choreographers from around the country and see many different performances by professional and college programs over the past two years of school, opening my eyes to just how diverse yet connected the world of dance is. It’s as if we are all speaking the same language of movement, but everyone has their own accent to that language."

   "Dance has always been a constant in my life. It’s what I grew up doing and it’s what I have fallen in love with. I can’t imagine my past without it nor dream of a future that did not include it. Creating art and articulating movement is how I think." 

"Dance is as much apart of me as the air that I breathe. I hope to step on stage until I’m gray and old, and that I continue to dazzle the audiences until the curtain closes."  

"My schedule is always booked, my days are always full, and that’s how I thrive--most of the time. When I’ve overcommitted myself (again!), I walk in the studio and dance. I disconnect from my to-do list, focus on foot, arm, and head placement, and create art. I walk out better than I walked in. That’s what dance does for me; it makes me better."

"Dance has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. So much so that it is at the center of my very being. It's not just that I like to dance or love to dance; it's that I have to dance."

Watching my mom perform and my best friend made me want to be a part of a performance group. I wanted to be a part of a group that would let me have fun with others but still let me express myself. I feel I found it in Dance Company. I’ve made new friends and had the opportunity to be both a performer and choreographer. When I’m on stage I feel happy and special like nothing else matters. I will always keep dance a part of my life.

My dance journey began at a young age.  At the age of three I would watch dance videos on Youtube trying to learn different dance styles and routines.  I would also make up dances and showcase my routines to family and friends. Since I loved to dance I was given the opportunity to choose to take a dance class or a gymnastics class. I chose gymnastics because I could train my acrobatic skills and dance.

My name is Cora Tallula and I fell in love with dance when I was three years old. I found a way to express myself through movement. Dance is such a beautiful way to speak without speaking. The ways you can make a story through just movements is gorgeous. I took ballet when I was six and I loved it. I got to be exposed to many new experiences and had so much fun. I then began to dance again when I came to Dogwood. Dance has always been something I have loved and I’m so glad I get to have this opportunity to do more of it.

I love choreographing because there are no rules. Just move your body and let it go. You can do ballet, jazz, tap, hiphop, or whatever calls to you! You can choose to do an uptempo dance, a slow dance, or a meaningful piece. You can fluctuate with your emotions and decide what story you want to tell. Dance is anything, nothing, or something. It is whatever you want it to be! I would like to thank the dance company girls for helping me throughout this year.

Now dance is something I love and will do forever because I have grown with the company at Dogwood. I've met a lot of good people and choreographers that have done beautiful pieces for the company. Dance means a lot to me at the end of the day.