the school at steps

Student Spotlight: Claire Joseph

February 3, 2015 by Rachel Hellwig

How old were you when you first started taking dance classes and what did you think of them?

Claire Joseph in class. Photo courtesy of The School at Steps, taken by Eduardo Patino, NYC.

I started dancing when I was three, but I have loved to dance since I could walk. I always loved making up dances when I heard music and performing them for anyone around me. When I was in 5th grade (I’m in 10th now), I started at The School at Steps’ Pre-Professional Program, which turned my dancing from a hobby into a real part of my life. I always knew I loved theater and jazz dance but I never thought I would love ballet as much as I do now. Falling in love with ballet was something I discovered through my training at The School at Steps.

How many classes are you taking now?

I am currently taking 11 classes a week over the course of 5 days. I take ballet everyday, and, in addition, I take pointe, jazz, theater dance, Horton, and partnering.

What has dance taught you about yourself?

Dance has taught me a lot of discipline and control. It has not only helped me in the dance studio but has also taught me to manage my schoolwork and my friends. It can be hard to balance it all, I devote so much time to my dance and homework, yet still want to keep a social life. The key, I have learned, is to have a good work ethic in both my schoolwork and my technique in dance. In the studio, dance has taught me to stay focused and work my hardest each and every day. It has helped me understand what I want, that I may not be perfect at everything immediately, and to focus on particulars. Once I feel I’ve reached my goal, it is about enjoying myself!

What do you think is the hardest thing about dance?

The hardest thing about dance for me has being able to accept my body for the way it looks and is naturally made. I definitely don’t have the “ideal” body type, especially for ballet, and have bad turnout on top of the way I am built. I can honestly say that I haven’t fully overcome what I’m considering the hardest part of dance for me, but that is also what gives me strength as a dancer. I don’t think I am alone in this either, I believe that embracing the way you are made, taking those natural challenges and using them to be stronger and more unique, can create the best dancers.

What is the most enjoyable thing about dance for you?

One of the most enjoyable things for me is seeing the goals you created for yourself become a reality, whether it be perfecting an extra turn, picking up combinations faster, or emphasizing your expressions more. It takes a lot of work, focus, and time to achieve something, but the moment you realize you have succeeded is amazing.

I also think the best feeling in the world is being able to perform on stage in front of other people. The rush of adrenaline and passion that goes into any performance is difficult to describe — the moment when you get to give a performance everything, after working so hard.

Do you think you will stay involved in dance, and if so, how?

I can’t imagine my life without dance right now. That being said, I don’t see myself becoming a professional ballerina, nor did I ever, but I know that whatever I do in life, I want dance to always be there. I originally increased my dance training because I wanted to be an actress, and I knew dance was necessary to pursue my Broadway dreams. Now I have become very interested in choreographing, not performing in the pieces, but rather creating the art. I’m unsure how exactly I want dance to be in my life, but I currently dance so much, I know I don’t ever want to give it up entirely.

claire_ballet_option — Claire Joseph performing ballet. Photo courtesy of The School at Steps, taken by Eduardo Patino, NYC.

What would be your best piece of advice for a new dance student?

I think my best advice for a new dance student would be to go into whatever kind of dance they want to pursue with a really open mind. They should understand that everyone is at a different place in their dancing, and, if they love it, the hard work will pay off. I would also tell them to go see dance, whether it is going to the ballet, seeing your peers perform, or even watching YouTube videos. So much of my inspiration comes from watching other dancers on stage, and finding a piece of myself in those dancers I look up to. When you watch other dancers you can notice things they do that relate to your training, and then take that into the studio the next day to better your technique.

The School at Steps cultivates young dancers, ages 3 mos. – 18 yrs., from their first step in a dance studio through their pre-professional training. Students discover their individual artistic voices in a creative environment with the guidance of an internationally recognized faculty. The personal attention the school provides encourages students to mature as dancers, grow as individuals, and enrich their passion for the art form. School at Steps graduates go on to dance with professional companies, study at top college dance programs, and perform on Broadway. http://stepsnyc.com/the-school-at-steps/

Student Spotlight: Melo Ludwig

May 23, 2014 by 4dancers

Today for our Student Spotlight we have a pre-professional student from The School at Steps. Meet Melo Ludwig!

When did you start dancing?

I started dancing when I was two years old. I took a “Mommy and Me” ballet and tap class and it was lots of fun! I continued taking ballet and tap each year and, as I got older, I started taking jazz too. After moving to New York City last year, I immediately signed up for classes at The School at Steps and was invited to audition for their Pre-Professional Program. I am just finishing up my first year in the program and absolutely love it!

Did you like it right away or did it take a little time?

I loved dancing right from the very start! I have always been the kind of girl who dances everywhere; at home, in grocery stores! The first time I danced on a stage was at my first recital when I was three years old. My mom was waiting in the wings and, when I came running back to her after my performance, I flew into her arms and squealed, “I love dancing under all those lights!”

What do you like the best about dance?

This is such a hard question, I’m not sure I can pick just one thing! I love how dance makes me feel like I can do anything! My body feels strong, powerful, and happy. I love going to class and look forward to all my classes each week. Most people don’t like Mondays but they’re actually my favorite day of the week because I get to go back to ballet class after a long weekend with no classes. Performing is another thing I like best about dancing. I love to be on stage in front of an audience!

What do you think is hard about dance?

It’s hard to watch older dancers doing certain steps that I can’t do yet because my body isn’t ready for them. I’m really excited to one day go on pointe, but it’s so difficult to be patient and wait for that time to come.

What do you think is easy about dance?

Staying focused in class is easy for me because I love dancing so much. I also find it easy to learn and remember combinations, probably because they are so much fun. My secret to remembering them is that I practice all the time!

What does it feel like when you are moving to the music?

It makes me feel alive, happy and free! Sometimes I close my eyes to feel the music and I feel like it flows through me. I make up my own moves to songs and let the music take me to another world. I listen to music as I go to sleep but, sometimes, I literally have to get out of bed and start dancing around my room. It’s hard to listen to music without dancing!

How do your teachers help you dance better?

My teachers are the best! They explain things really well and give me good corrections to help me become a better dancer. They are incredible dancers themselves and to watch them dance inspires me! They also teach great combinations that I love to go home and practice.

Do you think you will dance for a long time? Why or why not?

I think I will dance forever! A dream of mine is to dance professionally and I can only hope it will come true one day! I can’t imagine my life without dance.

Student Spotlight: Julia Dinella

April 7, 2014 by 4dancers

EPP_1382_A — Photo by Eduardo Patino, Courtesy of The School at Steps

How did you get involved in dance?

Even before I started dancing, I wore a leotard and tights every day. Once my mom realized my obsession with ballet apparel was more than just a childish whim, she promptly enrolled me in weekly “Mommy and Me” ballet classes at The School at Steps when I was four. A few years later, I began ballet classes of my own with the Technique Program at The School at Steps, and by the time I was eleven, I knew dance was my passion and joined their Pre-Professional Program. I started taking ballet, jazz, and musical theater classes, and have since been dancing six days a week.

What is your current dance schedule like?

I dance Monday-Saturday for 20 hours a week. I participate in ballet technique five days a week, as it is the starting point and foundation for all other forms of dance. I also take pointe and variation classes twice a week, partnering, hip-hop, jazz, and musical theater one to two times weekly. My dance schedule includes a variety of styles, which combines aspects of performing and technique that have helped shape the dancer I am today.

What do you enjoy most about taking classes?

My favorite part is to learn variations or new choreography, because for me, these aspects of class are my reward. I work six days a week perfecting my dance technique, and variations and choreography allow me to take that technique and bring it to the next level. Here I am able to personalize my dancing and truly perform to my fullest.

What do you find the most challenging about dance?

I find getting frustrated to be the most challenging part of dance. When you get to the advanced levels of dance, you’re almost expected to look and dance effortlessly even when you’re in class. Sometimes I get so caught up and frustrated while learning new steps that I forget to really appreciate and enjoy what I love to do.

How do you think dance helps you with other areas of your life?

If dance has taught me anything, it has taught me to be passionate, focused, and dedicated—qualities that have become ingrained in me and have transcended into other important aspects of my life. For example, two years ago, I started volunteering at a program that helps autistic children develop basic life skills. While my volunteer work has been a rewarding experience, it has also proved itself to be both physically and mentally challenging. Dance instilled the understanding that true progress takes time and patience.

Additionally, I love school; I strive to achieve academic success. However, when I have innumerable assignments and don’t want to go on, dance helps me understand that I must persevere because it reminds me that with focus, I can succeed. Whether I’ve had a tough day at community service or received a bad grade on a test, I know I can come to class and dance away the stress.

Do you have any plans that include dance in your future?

I am currently in the process of hearing back from colleges. While I did not apply to any conservatories, all of the schools I applied to have outstanding dance programs. I plan to minor in dance during my collegiate experience and I hope that dance will always be a part of my life.

The School at Steps is a training ground for students, ages 2-18, who are interested in exploring various dance styles, as well as for those students already focused on a particular discipline. The school offers an Academic Year and Summer Programs, with classes in ballet, modern, tap, jazz, theater dance, hip hop, and Pilates. Students at the school are also given performance opportunities, and workshops on dance and career-related topics. Beginning with the Young Dancers Program and continuing through the most advanced pre-professional classes, The School at Steps provides children with an opportunity to explore the world of dance, to learn and experiment with technique, and to enrich their appreciation for the various forms of the art.

Student Spotlight: Lucy Panush

March 26, 2013 by 4dancers

Today we are running another student spotlight–Lucy, from The School at Steps…

LucyPanush2_byE.Patino — Lucy Panush, Photo by E. Patino

1. Can you tell readers how you became involved with dance?

I first became involved with dance at age 2 in “Mommy and me” classes, and my earliest dance training was in ballet and tap programs at various studios in Manhattan. I decided five years ago to audition for The School at Steps’ Pre-Professional program, where I have found my “home,” and am currently a student. It is there that I have been able to broaden my dance education, incorporating other varieties of dance — Horton, hip-hop, jazz, contemporary, theatre dance and ballet– into my dance vocabulary.

2. What do you find you like best about dance class?

What I love about dance class is the atmosphere and the people that come with it. Dancers have this amazing work ethic, which adds to the energy in the room. Now that I have gotten to the advanced level it has become even more enjoyable to watch all the incredible dancers around me. In particular, I find it intriguing to see what choices they make because I am able to enhance my own dancing by learning from them.

I also love the dance studio because it is a place I can practice my performance skills. The feeling of dancing a ballet variation is very different than that of performing a hip-hop piece. I hone these performance skills in dance class.

3. What is the hardest part about dance for you?

The hardest part about dance for me is having the confidence and mindset to tackle a new and challenging step. If I am too afraid to mess up, or fall flat on my face, I realize I am never going to succeed in accomplishing something difficult. I remind myself constantly to be confident within myself, because 60% of the time it’s actually “in my head.” If I believe I can execute the step, I find I most likely do!

LucyPanush1_by Panush — **Lucy Panush, Photo by Keith Fremon**

4. What advice would you give to other dancers?

I would offer other dancers the mantra: “dance is to express and not to impress.” If you are dancing because you love it, and not doing it for someone else, whether it be a teacher or a parent, then that is all that matters. Dance is also such a great outlet to build confidence. It is important to take the confidence that is gained in class and apply it to performances and other areas of life. But mostly, rather than compare yourself to others, focus on your own improvement.

5. How has dance changed your life?

Dance has changed my life in so many positive ways.

It has taught me time management, which certainly helps with juggling classes and schoolwork;
It has given me the ability to focus better, putting all my personal issues aside for a period of time to just be in the moment and the movement.
It has given me performance skills to apply on stage;
And it has taught me, plain and simple, that your life is much more enjoyable when you have a passion!

In the studio I am my own person; I have the ability to express myself freely. Nothing beats the feeling that accompanies finishing an amazing class; I always leave with endless energy and a huge smile on my face. I know I will remain committed to this art form, as it is such an integral part of my life.

Here’s a video of Lucy dancing:

Student Spotlight: Ally Brodsky

December 3, 2012 by 4dancers

Today’s “Student Spotlight” features Ally Brodsky from The School at Steps…

Dancer from the school at steps — Ally Brodsky

1. Can you tell readers how you became involved with dance?

I first became involved in dance at age three when my parents enrolled me in beginner ballet at a local studio in Naples, Florida. A few years later, I began to formally study the RAD ballet technique and to take the required yearly exams. I also participated in Jazz classes and joined the studio’s competition team. At age eleven, I moved to New York City with my family, where I joined the Pre-Professional Program at The School at Steps. Since then, I have added Theater dance to the list of disciplines in which I participate, and I have continued to dance over eighteen hours per week.

2. What do you find you like best about dance class?

My favorite part of class is rehearsing for the winter and spring performances. Although I love working to improve my technique, I find that practicing — both variations and other choreographic works — helps me develop a fuller sense of artistry. These rehearsals pay off once I am on stage because I feel extremely prepared and find that I can truly enjoy my time performing.

3. What is the hardest part about dance for you?

I find showing emotion to be surprisingly difficult. While on my competition team, I was taught that each dance style required a different set of facial expressions: big, cheesy smiles for jazz; forlorn puppy-dog eyes and distressed, open mouths for lyrical jazz; and sassy smirks for hip-hop and jazz funk. However, as I have matured in my dancing, I have learned that these prescribed expressions are no longer appropriate or acceptable. Now, I must take the time to really plan my character and dancing intent before a show in order to break the barrier between my everyday self and performer.

4. What advice would you give to other dancers?

If a dancer doesn’t fully trust the movement she is creating, the audience will not be convinced. Therefore, it is incredibly important that you – the dancer – always be confident. If you make a mistake, make it with conviction. You don’t ever want to leave the stage after a show and regret that you didn’t try to make your performance special, simply because you were worrying about falling during a difficult sequence or landing a jump on the wrong count.

5. How has dance changed your life?

Dance has kept me grounded. No matter what is going on at school, with friends, or in other aspects of my life, I can always rely on it to make me feel better or to relieve my stress. It has also kept me focused and given me the physical and emotional strength required to accomplish my goals both in and out of the studio. Perhaps most importantly, dance’s constant presence in my life has improved my self-confidence, and the people I have met through dance have opened my eyes to new and unique perspectives that I otherwise may not have experienced. I am so glad that I realized dance was my passion at such a young age, and I cannot imagine living without it.

Watch Ally:

The School at Steps is a training ground for students, ages 2-18, who are interested in exploring various dance styles, as well as for those students already focused on a particular discipline. The school offers an Academic Year and Summer Program, with classes in ballet, modern, tap, jazz, theater dance, hip hop, and pilates. Students at the school are also given performance opportunities, and workshops on dance and career-related topics. Beginning with the Young Dancers Program and continuing through the most advanced pre-professional classes, The School at Steps provides children with an opportunity to explore the world of dance, to learn and experiment with technique, and to enrich their appreciation for the various forms of the art.

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