When and where were you born?
1994 in Dallas, Texas. Yeehaw
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up I remember wanting to be a marine biologist. I always had a fascination with the ocean and science, and one year for Christmas my parents gave my brothers and I the Planet Earth DVD sets and I was obsessed with the underwater chapters. I still geek out over them today.
Do you have any favorite stories from your childhood?
I’ve always been a daddy’s girl and I remember growing my dad would pick me up from school sometimes and take me out for a father daughter date. We would go to the mall and split an Orange Julius and M&M cookie and sometimes he would take me to Claire’s to pick out some new earrings. I just remember sitting across from my dad in the mall cafeteria talking about my life as an elementary school girl and thinking he was the coolest dad ever and my day couldn’t get any sweeter. My dad always did and still does make simple seemingly mundane outings so much fun.
Did you enjoy school?
Yes and no. I’ve always been a determined student and have made very good grades, but at the end of the day I always just wanted to be in the studios. I find comfort in this place where my studious self who loves research and investigation clashes with my artistic self who feels adventurous, sensitive, and curious. This marriage between both worlds is why the studio is my ideal classroom.
What were your best/worst memories from college?
It was spring of my freshman year at The Boston Conservatory when I was walking from my dorm to the finish line of the Boston Marathon when the bombs went off. I remember not knowing exactly what happened, but knew that it was serious from the large crowds of people running from the scene, the helicopters flying overhead, and the numerous trucks of National Guard men and women hurrying to help. But amongst the tragedy and chaos, during the weeks to follow I have never felt such a large sense of community and comfort from my classmates, friends, and family. It was a moment that I will never forget, and one that set the tone for my 4 years at The Boston Conservatory- Boston Strong!
If you could do anything right now what would you do? Why?
My second grade teacher knew sign language and would teach our class from time to time. Ever since that year sign language and has been something in the back of my mind that I’ve always wanted to learn. I am currently looking into enrolling for classes this fall because why not?!
What was the happiest moment of your life?
This last year I choreographed a piece for my senior project inspired by my favorite movie Wes Anderson’s Moonrise Kingdom. I had known for years that I wanted to create this piece, but was waiting for the right time and the right dancers. I finally started the project last fall and it will forever be one of my most cherished processes. I was able to spend several nights each week in the studio with my closest friends and favorite dancers creating a piece encompassing themes of innocence and child like curiosity. I remember walking into the studio each day, looking at my dancers and feeling so lucky that my line of work includes the people I love and brings me so much joy.
How would you describe a perfect day?
I’m pretty simple and easy to please so when it comes to my ideal day it would probably include hanging with my man Jeff, watching some Parks and Rec, drinking coffee, taking a nap, and enjoying a nice home cooked meal. I realize this sounds pretty boring but these kinds of days don’t come often so when they do I love it!
Do you have any siblings? What were they like growing up?
I have two brothers; one older one younger. Being the only girl has been a lot of fun and I think has eliminated the “middle child syndrome.” On the other hand growing up I remember playing a lot with Legos, Rescue Hero’s, Trucks, and playing kick ball or wrestling with my brothers. Looking back I think it’s kind of funny I chose dance amongst a family of serious sports fans. I’m still very close to my brothers and adore them both very much.
Was there a teacher who had a particularly strong influence on your life? Tell me about them.
I went to Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts where I had Kyle Richards for composition class. Mr. Richards poured so much into his students and created an atmosphere that promoted individuality, curiosity, and exploration without judgment. He taught me to embrace the strange, quirky, and flawed sides of myself to be used as inspiration for my movement. I didn’t realize it at the time, but looking back I think being in his class was one of the most creative times in my life this far. Every time I make a new piece I think about Mr. Richards.