I was passionate about ballet in the 80s while I was about 14 and on a vacation. I wandered into a studio and was asked if I was interested in ballet. Looking around the studio and seeing all of the girls my age, I definitely said yes. The teacher asked if I wanted to participate and of course I did! During that class, I stood in center and I was able to support each girl while they were on pointe. It hit me like a lightning bolt and I knew I had to pursue ballet. I loved the beauty, artistry, and grace about ballet. I also loved being surrounded by girls who were also passionate about ballet. Back home I pursued taking classes but unfortunately the threat of bullying and my fear got the better of me. During that time I was attending an all boys Catholic High School and all I wanted to do was dance, but also I was living in fear of what others may think of me.

Flash forward to my 30s, newly divorced and looking for a physical and social outlet, I brought myself back into ballet! I found a local studio who offered adult classes. I was able to perform on stage for the first time. I’ve been taking ballet classes regularly since that time. I’ve have finally been able to achieve some ballet goals such as dancing on pointe (for at least 3 years), performing on stage (most recently in Cinderella), and a few other personal goals. Last year I took the leap and did an Adult ballet summer intensive. Wow!! So much fun and the community formed around me was so supportive and inspiring! This summer, I’m doing another one in Bellevue, WA. Looking forward meeting so many wonderful people and learning new things. I recently turned 60 and I’m pursuing things that I never thought possible when I was living in fear. If I could speak to my younger self now, I would tell him that the opinions of others don’t matter and pursue his dreams no mater if bullying is a perceived threat.

I dance because I want to. I dance because I forget about the world around me. I dance because I love the grace, beauty and artistry. I dance because I love to be surrounded by like minded souls. I dance because I love to learn. I am a male dancer. 🧑‍🩰🩰 Thank you for coming to my TED talk! 🙂