The people we surround ourselves with can have a profound impact on the trajectory of our lives. Such is the case with Jade Donnell, a dancer introduced to the field by her grandmother, who strives to be an example to others on her creative path. Donnell’s journey in dance began at age four, thanks to both her grandmother’s influence and her early exposure to liturgical music. Now, with eight years of experience as a dance instructor at Royal Expressions Contemporary Ballet, Jade has developed a teaching style that integrates a range of genres including ballet, contemporary, jazz, and African dance.
Jade’s commitment to dance is rooted in a belief that different liturgical styles convey strength and power. Her goal is to continually advance her skills and knowledge in the field and to pass that along to others. As part of the Artist Support Grant, Donnell received funding from The Arts Council of Greater Greensboro that allowed her to attend Horton Teacher Training in New York City.
“Attending the Horton Teacher Training program broadened my dance expertise, says Jade. "By learning the Horton Technique, I aim to impart this invaluable knowledge to my students. I am truly thankful to The Arts Council of Greater Greensboro for giving me the opportunity to build my career through this training”.
Her path to success has not been straightforward. Jade recalls the challenge of gaining entry into the UNCG dance program in college, requiring three auditions before acceptance. One pivotal story in her career has stuck with her: during a ballet warm-up exercise, her professor played Evanescence’s “Bring Me to Life.” For Jade, this moment was more than just a warm-up; it was an affirmation of her place in the dance world. “It made me feel like this is where I needed to be. I could be as silly, as weird, and as Black as I wanted to be,” she shares.
Inspired by her own experiences and driven by a passion to uplift others, Jade offers a piece of advice to aspiring dancers: “Strive for it. As a Star Wars junkie, I live by the mantra, ‘Do or do not, there is no try.’” She encourages young Black dancers to chase their dreams with determination, believing that if she can achieve her goals, others can too.
It’s through creatives like Jade that community is fostered. To invest in artists is to positively influence the life trajectory of others and ourselves.
The Artist Support Grant, funded by the North Carolina Arts Council, is open for 2024-25 applications from August 19, 2024 – September 16, 2024. For more information on eligibility and how to apply visit the grant page.
For any additional questions, contact Jaymie Meyer, Artist Services & Impact Officer, at jmeyer@theacgg.org.
