In our next DT+ Teacher Talk on Tuesday, June 23, at 12 pm EDT, we’re tackling the question head-on with Geraldine Brown, creator of the Equitable Commercial Dance Program at Loyola Marymount University, and Cat Cogliandro, educator, choreographer, and advocate for safer, more inclusive dance spaces. Together, we’ll discuss strategies for reducing performance anxiety, encouraging positive reinforcement, and promoting healthy social-media habits—all with the goal of making the competition experience more empowering, accessible, and supportive for young dancers. Register here—we hope you’ll join us for this timely, important conversation. 

As dance teachers, we shape far more than strong dancers—we shape the environments that allow them to grow. In that same spirit of advocacy and care, we’re spotlighting Rockette Sydney Mesher and her work teaching dancers with limb differences, and jazz educator Lisa Biagini as she reflects on Luigi Jazz technique, family legacy, and longevity in dance. We also honor the resilience and perseverance of members of our community navigating profound personal challenges, including those facing terminal illnesses.

With gratitude,
Reanne Rodrigues
rrodrigues@dancemedia.com