8 (dance things) I’m Thankful For
posted Thu 11/28/24 12:30 pm
HAPPY THANKSGIVING, DANCERS!.
+ With so much to be thankful for, where do I even start? I’ll stick to just 8 dance-world-related things. These probably each deserve their own article, but per “intro week” guidelines for The Ready Line, let’s just go with the bullet points. And in the style of how they used to announce state qualifiers at the Geneva sectional, these are “in no particular order!”
THANKFUL FOR:
+ ...every single one of the 8CA staffers over the years. Many have gone on to become coaches. They were willing to watch and comment on routines throughout long competition days when they could’ve easily been doing the college-kid-chill thing on the weekends.
+ …the sport’s long history and that people are willing to listen to my historical perspectives. I’m thankful for our two state organizations and their leaders, and the other organizations that have come and gone through the decades. They each stacked the bricks of the cozy dance home we all enjoy.
+…all the major dance figures who’ve been willing to collab with me over the years. Coaching superstars, master teachers, national champion dancers—they’re all so busy sharing their gifts, so it’s sometimes hard to believe they carved out some time to team up with me for some amazing teaching events and content.
+ …all the coaches who dedicate so much to their dancers and programs. Most are teachers, a job that in and of itself is one of society’s hardest and most crucially important callings.
+ …all the dancers — and their talent, courage, strength, and dedication. I’m grateful for their willingness to try out, to set aside studio stardom, to do THIS with their time and energy. And I’m thankful for the parents willing to come to games and competitions (probably after years of studio recitals and comps, all very expensive after paying for classes).
+…a successful podcast, blog, and social media platforms. Our podcast is in its 5th year. Whhhaaaaatttttt???? 8CA dance-by-dance commentary and team features started over twelve years ago. A lot came together for any of these elements to be successful, and I’m thankful that the stars lined up to make them a reality.
+…for all the partners, event hosts, and talented instructors that have made 8CA events come to life. From the simple visit to a team practice to the big 8CA summer tour events and our All-State Celebrations — I’m so grateful for the folks who made them possible.
+…all the 8CA music clients since the beginning, right up through now. That’s how 8CA started. Thanks so much for letting me combine music and dance. And for letting me repurpose my broadcast communications degree and radio career : )
SPEAKING OF MUSIC…
+ Someone out there may have gotten teary-eyed reading this, so I’ll end on a light note. Here are SOME of the music genres I’m super thankful for:
‘80s pop, ‘80s hair metal, late ‘80s house music (especially Chicago hip house)
‘90s alternative and country
‘00s pop punk
‘00s R & B
‘10s trap hip hop
‘10s indie rock
‘20s bedroom / dream pop