Tiny Tutu Dreams

This semester, I’ve enjoyed spending my afternoons with a delightful 5-year-old girl whose energy and enthusiasm have rekindled many cherished memories from my childhood. When we first met, she was twirling around the kitchen in her white tights and light pink dance leotard, and I had the pleasure of witnessing her receive her very first pair of ballet shoes. The excitement in her eyes mirrored my own youthful wonder.

Just a week later, I found myself in her playroom, where she danced as Clara from The Nutcracker, a role she had always dreamed of, while I took on the part of the Sugar Plum Fairy. It was a magical, full-circle moment that deepened my appreciation for ballet.

The holiday season has always held a special place in my heart. For 16 years, dance was my life. After long school days, I would eagerly dive into rehearsals, driven by the anticipation of performing under the stage lights come December. Each afternoon from ages 2 to 18, I found my sense of belonging and purpose at the ballet barre and in the dance studio, rehearsing and perfecting the art of dance. The rigorous practice never diminished my love for being on stage, a passion that endures to this day.

Among countless dance memories—16 years of The Nutcracker, spring ballets, recitals, competitions, and high school dance team performances—one stands out above all.

On December 15, 2018, at 7:59 p.m., after Jingle Bells had just finished playing, I was overwhelmed with emotion and had my “Hey Mom, I made it” moment. I had driven 396 miles to perform at the world-renowned Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. Seeing my family, friends, and an enthusiastic audience applauding for my dance troupe and me during our performance of A Carolina Snowbelle Christmas was an indescribable moment of achievement and joy. It was a profound reminder that the countless hours of practice and dedication were worth every second.

I auditioned for the Carolina Snowbelles in July 2016, after an intensive week-long dance camp at Appalachian State University. Despite the fierce competition, I was determined to let my 12 years of dance training shine. Performing in front of Cheryl Cutlip, a former Radio City Rockette and the troupe’s esteemed leader, was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking.

Two weeks later, while on vacation, my mom delivered the thrilling news: I had been accepted into the troupe. It was a dream come true, but I knew the hard work was just beginning.

The practice was rigorous and demanded more than just commitment; it required sacrifice. Saturday mornings began early, with a healthy breakfast and meticulous preparation before heading to practice. These sessions meant missing out on football games, school events, and family outings. The journey included not only rigorous rehearsals but also physical and emotional struggles. Whether it was dealing with injuries, enduring criticism from teachers, or confronting insecurities about how I looked in my skin-tight leotard and tights, I reminded myself that many others would love to be in my dance shoes, and I embraced every moment of this honor.

As I look back on my dance journey, I am filled with gratitude for the community, self-esteem, teamwork, and mentorship it provided. Dance has been a cornerstone of my life, shaping who I am today. Even now, as I continue to dance through life, I cherish the lessons learned and the joy it has brought me.

My Carolina Snowbelle memories come alive each Tuesday evening as I watch my best friend and fellow Carolina Snowbelle teach precision to members of our UNC dance club, Blank Canvas. Joining Blank Canvas after high school graduation reignited my passion for dance, and the club serves as a daily reminder of why I fell in love with this art form.

Reflecting on my time in the studio, I am deeply grateful for the experiences dance has provided. The challenges and triumphs of those years have instilled in me a profound sense of blessing and appreciation. Dance has shaped who I am today, and I know that the little 2-year-old girl in her tiny light pink leotard, white tights, and brand-new ballet slippers would be proud of the dancer and person I have become.