The Story Behind the Spotlight: Why I Do What I Do

This year’s recital theme, “The Stories We Tell,” has felt especially close to my heart. Not just because of the beautiful routines our dancers are learning, but because it’s made me reflect on my own story — and the story I hope we’re telling together here at Next Step Dance.

If I’m being honest, the past few months haven’t been easy. Life has handed me more than a few unexpected plot twists. But even in the hardest moments, this studio — and the people in it — have reminded me of why I keep showing up.

I’ve always believed that dance is more than movement. It’s expression. It’s healing. It’s connection. When a dancer steps into class after a tough day and leaves smiling, lighter, more confident — that’s the story I care about. That’s the kind of impact I dreamed of when I stepped into this role.

Next Step Dance isn’t just a place to learn technique (though we definitely do that too!). It’s a space where kids — and adults — are encouraged to be fully themselves. A space where we celebrate the process, not just the performance. Where we lift each other up. Where we work hard and have fun and fall down and try again. Where we grow.

And that growth doesn’t just happen on stage. It happens in the little moments — like a dancer finally nailing a turn they’ve been working on for weeks. Or helping a friend with their costume. Or showing up to rehearsal when it would’ve been easier to stay home. These are the stories that fill my heart.

As we head into the final stretch of recital season, I want to say thank you — to every family, every dancer, every teacher, every person who has poured their energy into this season. You’re not just part of the recital… you’re part of this story.

And I think it’s a really beautiful one.

So when you see your dancer on stage this June, know that what you’re watching is more than choreography. You’re witnessing confidence, resilience, community — the story of who they are becoming.

And honestly? That’s the greatest story I could ever hope to help tell.