Observations on the Definition of ‘Professional Dancer’

BY EMMALY WIEDERHOLT Over New Years, I initiated a series on what professionalism means in dance, since it’s one of those occupations wherein it’s difficult to find 30 to 40 years of continuous salaried work. I have my own wobbly insecurities about my legitimacy as a dance artist, especially since […]

March 5, 2018  |  Read Article

Am I A Professional?

BY EMMALY WIEDERHOLT; ILLUSTRATION BY CAMILLE TAFT Am I a professional dancer? The question reads like something out of those “advice for dancers” columns I read in Dance Magazine as a teenager. “Dear all-knowing dance guru: I’ve studied dance in many forms for several years and I perform regularly, sometimes for […]

January 11, 2018  |  Read Article

I Don’t Know How to Be a Dancer

BY EMMALY WIEDERHOLT Earlier this month, I caught up with a friend who had recently produced a dance festival in Portland. I called to congratulate her and hear how it went, and to generally catch up. As our conversation lengthened, I found myself complaining to her that I feel like […]

August 24, 2017  |  Read Article

Dancing Seriously

BY EMMALY WIEDERHOLT “Unfortunately, dance isn’t really a part of my life anymore. I’ve loved doing this yearly article and I appreciate all your hard work. I don’t want to string along your awesome blog since I’m not dancing seriously anymore.” A young woman wrote the above to me after […]

July 6, 2017  |  Read Article

Answers For Dancers, Round Two

BY EMMALY WIEDERHOLT; ILLUSTRATIONS BY MAGGIE STACK Last year, we squared away with our readers, giving you the straight up answers to the questions you’ve always wanted to know. This year, we thought we’d answer more of your dire questions: Should you enroll your daughter in dance classes? How can […]

June 29, 2017  |  Read Article