Today we’d like to introduce you to Traci Carpenter.
Traci, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Dancing has been a part of my life since I could walk. Unfortunately, I was born severely pigeon-toed from the hips so was clearly not “built” to be a dancer. My parents were given the choice of surgery or to put me in dance as soon as I could walk. Their choice changed the path of my life. I was never the most technical dancer but because I generally had to work harder than the girl or boy next to me, I wanted it more. I played just about every sport growing up but never stopped dancing. As a little girl, I dreamt of being the captain of my high school dance team, directing a dance team, owning a studio and then going on to run a competition company. I am so blessed to have done all but one of those things at the age of 35. I live my dream every single day. I get to impact the lives today’s youth by instilling work ethnic and passion every day. The majority of my dancers won’t go on to dance for the rest of their lives, but they will all be successful humans because of the lessons they have learned from my faculty and dance community
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Certainly not a smooth road. The season of 2014-15 was probably the most difficult year of my life. Iwas going through a divorce and my best friend/co-artistic director who ran the studio with me had to move home to California to be with her family. Luckily, my dance family is incredible and very close. I am also hugely supported by my own family who was there every step of the way in my personal struggle. This year taught me that I am truly capable of anything if I fight hard enough.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
At Athletistry, we have created a family environment. It is truly special. I watch other students encourage others and cheer each other on. I refuse to let kids tear each offer down, so I foster an environment of positivity, honesty, and love. My dance studio kids are truly like my own. Although we teach all styles, (ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, musical theater) I’d say our strength is creating well-rounded dancers who excel in all styles. In our competitive company, we take a more concert dance approach so we definitely stick out. My dancers are beautiful movers but also incredibly athletic. They are so strong, it often times shocks me. I am very proud of the environment of my studio. I believe my dance family is truly a special group
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was kinda an outsider. I definitely had a group of friends but I always felt a little different. I was the girl who never really got asked for dances or things of that nature. I was always really focused on dancing and school. I identify so much with kiddos who struggle socially and love making them feel like they have a place.
My interests as a kid were all over. Dance, obviously. Sports, music, horseback riding, boy bands and traveling. My parents were incredible to expose me to so much growing up
Contact Info:
- Address: 10539 Fry Rd
Suite 200
Cypress, TX 77433 - Website: www.athletistrydance.com
- Phone: 281-550-1234
- Email: athletistrydance@gmail.com
- Instagram: @athletistrydance
- Facebook: Athletistry Performing Arts Center
Image Credit:
Francois Anchon
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