It’s festival week! There are so many events, and if you haven’t bought your tickets yet for the performances…there’s still time! So far this week, we’ve experienced master classes, panel discussions, and the anticipation to view our South Chicago Dance Festival concert!

The panel discussions led us deeper into the minds of various choreographers, dancers, and teachers in the industry. Attached are segments from both Crystal Michelle Perkins and Joshua Ishmon. They spoke to multiple Zoom viewers discussing their experiences in the dance world.

What sparked some deeper thought for me was Joshua’s comment that “unless it’s presented to you, you never know what you were without.” I was a dancer from a young age. I grew up at a studio that competed dance, performed dance, but never educated its students that dance was a career option. I was never exposed to someone who had a professional dance career and therefore I hadn’t believed in myself enough to pursue my passion. It was only once I went to college and was surrounded by people who were pursuing dance or had deep knowledge of dance career options that I felt confident to become a dancer. This is solely my personal experience. I can only imagine children, especially in South Chicago, not having the exposure to the arts and realizing the possibilities it holds. I find it so important what Kia and our Chicago arts community is doing – giving kids this exposure, these opportunities, and promoting and encouraging their passions in the fine arts field.

The arts are so special. It’s our passion, our purpose, our love, not just simply a career. Support your local artists! Encourage those around you to participate and appreciate the arts. I’m proud of our company for providing these special experiences.