Audrie Gilbert is a sixteen-year-old dancer from Newark, Delaware. She dances at American Dance Academy.
“I hope to show others that you can pursue your passion while learning, growing, improving, and accepting challenges.”
How does dance have a positive impact on your life?
I love being a member of a team because of the close bond of friendships that develop. We often find ways to spend time together outside of the studio, whether it’s a sleepover or dancing to raise funds for Autism. Dance is also a way of life in our family. My older sister and I have danced together for years and our mom was a dance major in college. Dance is more than an art form to me: it is a means of self-expression, a vehicle for better health, a sport, and a creative outlet for communicating. The three of us share a special bond because of our love for performing.
How do you want to use dance to have a positive influence on your community?
People in the arts are often stereotyped as not academically gifted. I hope to dispel that ridiculous stereotype. Despite the numerous hours of dance classes, team rehearsals, school sports, and clubs, I am able to successfully balance a rigorous Honors curriculum and excel academically. Dance requires an element of spontaneity, discipline, time management, and out-of-the-box thinking. Such creativity and innovation make those who are also dancers more successful problem solvers and leaders. I hope to show others that you can pursue your passion while learning, growing, improving, and accepting challenges simultaneously all the while accomplishing success.
