Dancing Through the Pandemic with Our Brown Ballerina Ambassadors
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a “new normal” for everyone’s way of life. Whether it’s battling with cabin fever, missing our family and friends, dealing with shock and trauma from the news, or mourning the victims of COVID-19, each day seems to bring a new obstacle.
Over the past few months, our Brown Ballerina Ambassadors took over our Instagram page to share their experiences coping with the challenges of the pandemic while finding light and hope through dancing.
In case you need a bit of optimism to help you pull through, we listed a few encouraging takeaways below:
Be resourceful.
Don’t let the pandemic’s restrictions limit you from continuing your practice. Look around your home and find creative ways to make space for dancing.
Photo: @nianoelledancer on Instagram
“One thing that did not change with COVID was my dance schedule. Our family room became my extended Chamberlain School of Ballet dance studio.” - Nia, Texas
Photo: D Gabriel Photography
“Part of the ‘new normal’ for dancers in quarantine is taking class at home digitally. I converted a basement guest room into my new dance studio. I take class here everyday.” - Najaah, Atlanta
Seek positivity.
New challenges bring new experiences, especially when everyone’s fighting the same battle. Even when times are rough, the unity and support from the virtual dance community is a blessing you may not have fully embraced until recently. Whenever you feel discouraged, try to find silver linings.
Photo: @amayatheballerina45 on Instagram
“During quarantine I have been continuing my dance training at home. It can be a little challenging at times because of the limited space. Although it might not be ideal, you have to work with what you have. In the end, I believe the experience will make us stronger dancers. I am thankful for the dance community coming together to provide us dancers with amazing online training.” - Amaya, Florida
Photo: @alexowensballet on Instagram
“Like the rest of the ballet world, I have continued my training at home. Although classes through Zoom in my living room are not my preferred way of dancing, I am so grateful to connect with dancers and teachers from all over!” - Alexandra, Kansas
Photo: Brett Pruitt
“As dancers we are all starting to get used to the new normal: Zoom ballet classes and at-home ballet. With summer intensives being cancelled and not being around our teachers and friends, trying to adjust has been hard but I am glad to have the support from my teachers, friends, and family. I am learning as we go but I believe that we will all come out stronger dancers from this!” - Joelle, Kansas City
Use your time wisely.
The restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic have left us all with plenty of free time on our hands. Try to stay productive by using the time to master your craft.
Photo: Shocphoto
“During the COVID-19 crisis, I've been taking online classes and exercising daily at home. My advice to any dancer is to keep dancing during this time outside of your studio. Reflect upon those corrections that your instructors shared in class. Now is the time to work behind the scenes to prepare for something great!” - Jaivyn, Georgia
Photo: Irene Aviles
“Quarantine was another learning lesson for myself that you have the choice of letting unfortunate situations either develop or destruct you - I chose development. Personally it was quite the adjustment going from having a busy schedule to then having so much time on my hands. I used that as an opportunity to recharge, try new things, and get materials like my resume and dance reel tight.” - Isio-Maya, New York
Don’t stop dancing!
In all walks of life, there will be challenges that will try to knock you off your game. In those times, remember your purpose and your passion. Never stop doing things that bring you the most joy!
Photo: Rachel Neville
“From COVID-19 to the Black Lives Matter protests, we are watching history unfold before our eyes. Dancing is my therapy. It's what keeps me calm in the face of negativity and sadness.” -Kaitlyn, L.A.
Photo: @sydney_guine on Instagram
“Dancing in a studio kind of feels like a very distant memory but I don't think COVID-19 has stopped anyone from dancing and grooving at home! Even if it's doing ballet in my room or wiggling around in my backyard, I know I won't let this pandemic stop me from doing what I love.” -Sydney, New York
Be sure to follow us on Instagram for the latest Brown Ballerina Ambassador takeovers, live interviews, and more.
Our Brown Ballerina Ambassadors share the mission behind Brown Girls Do Ballet by spreading positivity and serving as role models for other ballerinas of color. Click here to apply to our 2021 Ambassador Program. The application window closes on October 31, 2020!