Photo credit: Wanda Koch Photography
We’ve been dancing at Jami Masters School of Dance for 10 years. My favorite time of year is Spring recital season – and it’s almost here! One tradition I started when my daughter was 4 years old was a mommy/daughter Friday GNO the night before her recital. We’d go to dinner first and then watch the Teen Company Dancers. It was so fun to watch my daughter take in every leap, spin and pique turn. You could see in her eyes that these girls were doing what she dreamed of doing someday. They were her idols year after year.
The Senior Solos always make me cry, along with Jami’s prelude speech sending her seniors off to college. One of my favorite lines of Jami’s is “we don’t know where dance will take these girls, but it will be with them forever and it will make them better at whatever they choose to do.” Jami truly stands by her promise to instill the love of dance in every dancer, no matter what level, shape or size.
I’m excited to feature the Senior JMSD Company dancers. These young women are leaders at their schools and at dance – beautiful, intelligent, athletic and poised. They are prepared to do anything the world has in store for them – just look at this impressive list of colleges courting each one of them. I am so proud that year after year, these girls continue to be wonderful role models for my girls.
Smarties, I am honored to introduce you to the 2015 JMSD Company seniors! Meet Grace Beuley, Catherine Carlson, Rachel Hutton, Anna Jones, Caroline Okel and Emma Weinberg!
And I popped in on their practice one night – how fun would that be to do leaps like this?!
Grace Beuley’s Smarty Stats:
Years Dancing: 7th-12th Grade
High School: Charlotte Latin School
College Plans: Deciding between Georgetown and UVA
When did you realize dance was your passion?
The first time I realized that dance was my passion was in 7th grade in my first real recital. I’d been in a few recitals before but only in one dance at a time (and I was really little). When I got offstage after performing my first ballet and jazz routines, I realized that I really love performing. Ever since, I’ve performed as much as I can with the studio and with my dance team at school.
What are your tips for little tiny dancers (and their moms:-) just getting started?
Enjoy themselves and to listen to your teachers because they’re the best. My advice to moms is to let their child choose what sport/activity they want to do and to encourage them to try new things (especially different types of dance).
What tips do you have for girls trying out for Junior Company/Teen Company?
Work really hard. Practice in your free time and focus during class. I also encourage them to have faith in themselves because even if they aren’t the best in their class or they feel behind, they’ll improve if they try hard.
Favorite dance class?
My favorite dance class is probably my weekend tap class with Courtney. I really like her style of tap, the class is very relaxed and fun, and Courtney is a great teacher.
Have you been in any productions?
I’ve been in the studio’s Happy Holidays productions, but other than that I have not really had any time for being in productions (and my lack of singing voice also impedes my ability to be in musicals a lot).
Are you on your school dance team or other extracurricular team?
I was on my school’s dance team for all four years of high school. It was definitely one of the greatest experiences of my life. I got so many opportunities to perform, and I made so many great friends. Dance team also helped me improve my jazz skills, which helped me a lot at the studio.
How do you manage your time doing both school dance and JMSD Company AND school workload?
Managing schoolwork, studio dance, and dance team is very difficult at times, but by using my time on the weekends and focusing on my work during my free time.
How has dance affected your path in life and where will it take you?
Dance has been a great experience to teach me to work hard and persevere because although I sometimes felt like I couldn’t keep up (mostly during Sybil’s adagio), I worked through it and improved. But I don’t think that I am going to dance professionally in the future. However, I would like to continue dancing recreationally in college.
What does JMSD mean to you?
JMSD is a place for me to learn and work, but most of all to have fun. Whether it’s in Ron’s tap classes dancing to Chiquita Banana or trying to do hip hop with Meagan, I’ve had so much fun at JMSD and will remember it forever.
What would you like to say to your Mom & Dad?
I’d like to say thanks to my mom and dad for paying for me to go to such a great studio and thanks for always encouraging me to work hard. I’d also like to thank them for always coming to my recitals and cheering me on when I performed at football games for dance team.
Catherine Carlson’s Smarty Stats:
Years Dancing: 12
High School: Charlotte Latin School
College Plans: Wake Forest University
When did you realize dance was your passion?
By the end of elementary school, as schoolwork was becoming increasingly important and sports becoming more serious, I had to make the ultimate decision between soccer, basketball and dance. Not blessed with hand-eye-ball coordination, the decision wasn’t extremely difficult; however, it was then that I realized how much dance meant, and still means, to me. From then on, I decided to increase my number of classes and focus more on improvement.
What are your tips for little tiny dancers (and their moms:-) just getting started?
I advise any small ballerinas out there to try many classes and find the ones that she or he enjoys the most. It is important to take a wide variety of classes but it is also important to find your individual strength and interest.
What tips do you have for girls trying out for Junior Company/Teen Company?
Auditions are always nerve-racking, but they don’t have to be terrifying. The workshops held before the audition on Saturday are key, but it also helps to spend a couple minutes every night, at the studio or at home, reviewing the material so you are completely comfortable with it. After that, the best thing to do is get a good nights rest, eat a hearty breakfast, take a deep breath, and enjoy your moments in front of the judges. Remember why you are there and let your love of dance shine through your movements.
Favorite dance class?
Personally, I feel the most comfortable in ballet and lyrical. The slow, specific movements calm any nerves I have or stresses that come with me into the room and the grace I feel carries on into the rest of my day.
Have you been in any productions?
Yes, I have been in the Upper School Musical at Latin each year and have loved every minute of them. From an upbeat “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, to the somber “Les Mis”, the cheesy “Hello Dolly”, and the emotional “Secret Garden”, I have enjoyed diving into the stories and characters. This year, I was able to be the Dance Captain/Assistant Choreographer for the “Secret Garden” and was able to take my love of dance and apply it to theater.
Are you on your school dance team or other extracurricular team?
I am on my school’s Dance Team. We perform both at football and basketball games as well as compete once in the winter.
How do you manage your time doing both school dance and JMSD Company AND school workload?
School and dance can feel like a lot sometimes, but it’s all about how you manage your time. Working and planning ahead is key to avoiding stressful nights cramming in work and studying. Utilizing your class time and free time during the day is also important, as you don’t have surplus time to spare in the afternoon.
How has dance affected your path in life and where will it take you?
Dance has taught me much more than the names of steps and how to do a proper plié. It has provided me with an outlet and a place to call home. Although I might not always be dancing, I will always carry with me the grace and presence I have learned from performing.
What does JMSD mean to you?
JMSD for so many years has been my home away from home. My day wouldn’t be complete without waling into the glass-paneled door in the Back Court of Park Road Shopping Center, saying hello to whoever is in the office, and meeting my life-long friends in class. From here, I will cherish memories of laughter, compassion, a few falls, and many successes, in addition to the family that I am thankful for every day. JMSD is a place where I can leave all my worries, be it academic or social, behind and focus on the common love of dance and care for each other.
What would you like to say to your Mom & Dad?
My parents have spent years of driving the seven-minute route back and forth to the studio, paying the tuition bills, and helping out with dress rehearsals, and without their love and support I would not be here today.
Rachel Hutton’s Smarty Stats:
Years Dancing: 14
High School: Myers Park High School
College Plans: Appalachian State University
When did you realize dance was your passion?
In 6th grade. I remember watching videos on YouTube and seeing how amazing the dancers were and thinking that that’s what I want to be like! So I decided to start taking my ballet and jazz classes more seriously and auditioned for company!
What are your tips for little tiny dancers (and their moms:-) just getting started?
Remember to have fun! Nothing is going to look perfect the first time you try it, but if you keep your head up and enjoy the dancing, you’ll look great.
What tips do you have for girls trying out for Junior Company/Teen Company?
Have a positive attitude and don’t give up! The auditions are not as scary as they seem. As long as you smile and try your best, you’ll be okay.
Favorite dance class?
My favorite dance classes over the years have been jazz, contemporary, and hip hop. These are classes I feel that I can move freely and express myself how I want. I connect to this kind of choreography and it just feels right when I’m in these classes-I love them!
Have you been in any productions?
Yes, the JMSD Happy Holidays productions every other year and of course, the JMSD recitals.
How do you manage your time with school JMSD Company?
I’m not going to lie, it’s difficult. But I feel like as long as I go home and work on my schoolwork, dance is my break. When I’m at dance I don’t have to think about school or anything else. It’s my time to express myself.
How has dance affected your path in life and where will it take you?
Dance has really given me confidence over the years. Performing on stage gives you such a rush, you feel like a star. It’s made things like public speaking easier for me because you get used to performing on stage or in class in front of your fellow dancers. Dancing really builds your self esteem!
What does JMSD mean to you?
JMSD is my second home. I feel comfortable here and have made such close bonds with the students and teachers. I already have so many incredible memories dancing here, I’m going to miss it so much.
What would you like to say to your Mom & Dad?
Thank you so much for being my biggest supporters! I’m so thankful for all you’ve done over the years to let me do what I love. You’re my favorite audience, I love you!
Anna Jones’ Smarty Stats:
Years Dancing: 12
High School: Charlotte Latin School
College Plans: UNC Chapel Hill
When did you realize dance was your passion?
In 7th grade when I tried to play field hockey and do the school musical on top of JMSD dance. By 8th grade, I knew I had to choose school sports or dance, and it was very clear at that point that dance was my passion.
What are your tips for little tiny dancers (and their moms:-) just getting started?
A) Start small, don’t jump right into taking a ton of classes. Even if you are really enjoying the one or two classes you are in and think you have time to add more, it is important to see how a whole dance year plays out because things can get really busy around recital time.
B) If you don’t like a class, try something else. Maybe a different style or even a different teacher. Every style of dance is very different and even the teachers have their own personal method of presenting that style, so not two classes are ever the same.
What tips do you have for girls trying out for Junior Company/Teen Company?
Know what you are getting into before audition workshops. Know that there will be a lot of older, better dancers than you who will have done this before and can pick up the choreography really fast. Do not get discouraged! Come in with a positive attitude and just try your best.
Favorite dance class?
I always loved lyrical the best because I’m very into ballet.
Are you on your school dance team or other extracurricular team?
I did dance team at my school for the 4 years of high school.
How do you manage your time doing both school dance and JMSD Company AND school workload?
It is definitely a skill you perfect as you get older. By having less time at night, I have learned to manage my time so that I can get all of my work done during time at school, time in between school dance team and JMSD, and time afterwards. I typically don’t have a problem getting my work done if I am productive.
How has dance affected your path in life and where will it take you?
Dance has provided me with a whole separate group of friends from my CLS friends that I have really enjoyed being with for so long. I hope to one day be able to teach a few dance classes on the side.
What does JMSD mean to you?
JMSD is so much more than a dance studio – it really is a second home. No matter what kind of day I’ve had, I can always count on leaving with a smile.
What would you like to say to your Mom & Dad?
I would like to thank them for giving me the opportunity to dance all my life and for always supporting me. They have sacrificed countless hours, weekends, and money so that I can dance, and I am so grateful
Caroline Okel’s Smarty Stats:
Years Dancing: 15
High School: Charlotte Latin School
College Plans: Davidson College
When did you realize dance was your passion?
I don’t think there was a very one singular moment that caused me to recognize my passion. Because I have danced since I was three years old, somewhere along the way I realized that I just never wanted to stop dancing and wanted to do it as much as possible.
What are your tips for little tiny dancers (and their moms:-) just getting started?
My biggest bit of advice is to never give up and not be discouraged if you don’t initially make it. My 6th grade year, I didn’t make it and I was devastated. But I think the rejection was the push I needed to completely devote myself to dance and focus on improving. I don’t think I would be the dancer I am today if I didn’t go through this experience.
What tips do you have for girls trying out for Junior Company/Teen Company?
Know that as hard as it can feel in a moment, not making Company can actually cause positive results! Also know that the process can seem a bit scary! Don’t worry – everyone is intimidated at first. Don’t let it get to you!
Favorite dance class?
My favorite dance class has always been jazz. I also love contemporary and modern.
Have you been in any productions?
I have been in the JMSD Happy Holidays performances every other year.
Are you on your school dance team or other extracurricular team?
I have been a member of the Charlotte Latin Dance Team for the past 4 years.
How do you manage your time doing both school dance and JMSD Company AND school workload?
It can definitely be a little overwhelming at times, but I have been able to regulate all of my work pretty consistently throughout middle and high school. I just have to attempt to get my work done in advance if possible, and I have to make sure I’m on top of all of my jobs.
How has dance affected your path in life and where will it take you?
Dance has introduced me to some of my very best friends. I know I’ll remain close to them for the rest of my life. Dance has also provided me with an outlet to let go and express myself, and I know I will always be grateful for that.
What does JMSD mean to you?
JMSD has become less of a dance studio to me and more of a home. It has been the environment that I have grown up in and it has shaped the person who I have become. I know I will carry the memories I’ve made there with me forever.
What would you like to say to your Mom & Dad?
I would like to thank them for providing me with the opportunity to dance and for always supporting me. I’d also like to thank them for the years in which they drove me to and from dance every day before I had my license.
Emma Weinberg’s Smarty Stats:
Years Dancing: 15
High School: Myers Park High School
College Plans: Engineering at Georgia Tech
When did you realize dance was your passion?
I realized that dance was something I wanted to do seriously around fifth grade, but as a child it was always one of my favorite activities. Over time I got really close to the teachers I had every year and dance progressively became a more and more important part of my life.
What are your tips for little tiny dancers (and their moms:-) just getting started?
Take classes with teachers you enjoy and start taking technique classes when you can!
What tips do you have for girls trying out for Junior Company/Teen Company?
Practice your audition combinations, be confident, and try out again if you don’t make it the first time.
Favorite dance class?
Contemporary
How do you manage your time doing both JMSD Company AND school workload?
Dance classes are generally a nice break for doing homework, and gives me the chance to clear my mind. Sometimes it’s difficult to balance both dance and school work, but for the most part it’s completely manageable, especially since by the time you get to high school and workload increases you’re already accustomed to having dance every night.
How has dance affected your path in life and where will it take you?
Dance has become an integral part of who I am. I honestly can’t imagine myself not dancing. Through dance I have developed my ability to work with others, adapt to different situations and express myself.
What does JMSD mean to you?
Through JMSD I have made some of my best friends. Dance has become my second family. Most of the teachers are people I look up to as role models and treat me with respect as an individual. Dance is a place that I am completely comfortable and is something I truly enjoy.
What would you like to say to your Mom & Dad?
I would like to thank my parents for a billion rides to dance over the years and for always being supportive of my goals as a dancer.
You can find Jami Masters School of Dance at:
Park Road Shopping Center/Back Court
www.jamimastersschoolofdance.com
(P)704-525-6555
facebook: www.facebook.com/jamimastersschoolofdance
twitter: twitter.com/jmsd5678
