Today we’d like to introduce you to Iona Ashe.
Hi Iona, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Dance has always been a central part of my life. I grew up around lots of different music, as most of my family are musicians, so dancing felt natural to me. Growing up, I watched my mother dance, and my grandmother and mother would take my sisters and me to see productions like The Lion King, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Houston Ballet, and other dance-heavy shows performing at the Hobby Center.
Once I realized dance was something I truly wanted to pursue, I started teaching myself. I would look up ballet class videos on YouTube, take the lampshade off a lamp, and dance with my shadow on the wall. Eventually, my mother decided it was time for me to train officially, and I began taking community ballet and modern classes.
Fortunately, my middle school had a fine arts program where I was able to put my new skills to work. Around that same time, I was also involved with Urban Kids, a children’s performance group under Urban Souls Dance Company with Harrison Guy and Walter Hull.
Through hard work, dedication, and a mother’s sacrifice, I was accepted into Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. There, I was able to find my voice as a young adult while deepening my dance knowledge and technique.
At the same time, I was training at The Movement Lab, where I met Dwayne Cook Jr. and Johari Jones. Through them, I was able to attend summer intensives with Alvin Ailey and Joffrey Ballet. I was also introduced to LaTrecia Mallet, owner and founder of Xtreme Level Dance, where I had the opportunity to be featured on Bring It!.
Around my junior year of high school, I was introduced to a production that has become a staple in my life: Houston’s Urban Nutcracker, produced by Traci Greene and Culture Arts Initiative. Soon after, it was time for me to graduate, and I took my talents to Southern University and A&M College, where I was a member of the Gold’N Bluez dance team. After my time there, I decided to return home to Houston and begin my teaching career.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road hasn’t always been smooth, although I have been fortunate to meet incredible people along the way who helped guide and support me. Like many African-American dancers, I’ve faced challenges within the dance world where opportunities were not always easily accessible. It often took networking, community support, fundraising, and literally blood, sweat, and tears just to even hear about certain opportunities.
During my time in college, I also experienced domestic violence, which took me off my path for a while. However, with the continuous support of my family, friends, and mentors, I was able to find my way back. That experience strengthened my perspective and my purpose.
I also have entered the world of motherhood. Now, I move forward with the understanding that the mission is bigger than myself.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Today, I work as a dance instructor and choreographer in the Greater Houston area, teaching a variety of styles including ballet, contemporary, jazz, majorette, and more. I’ve had the opportunity to teach and choreograph for dancers of many different ages and backgrounds, and one of the things I’m most passionate about is helping young dancers discover their confidence and artistic voice.
What sets me apart is that I understand multiple sides of the dance world. I’ve experienced the discipline of classical training, the energy of commercial and majorette styles, and the importance of cultural representation in dance. Because of that, I strive to create spaces where dancers feel challenged, supported, a.
I also began my professional career at a young age and have never stopped dancing for myself, which continues to shape the way I teach and choreograph. In recent years, I’ve been fortunate enough to choreograph and perform for American Idol’s Vincent Powell, Vockah Redu, and Big Chief Brian and Noveau Bounce.
I’m most proud of the impact I’ve been able to make through teaching. Watching students grow—not just as dancers but as people—is incredibly rewarding. My goal is to continue contributing to Houston’s dance community while creating opportunities and inspiration for the next generation of dancers.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice for anyone just starting out in dance is to stay consistent and remain open to learning. The dance world can be challenging, and opportunities don’t always come easily, but your dedication and work ethic will set you apart. Take every class you can, learn from as many teachers as possible, and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.
It’s also important to build relationships and community. Many of the opportunities I’ve had came through people who believed in me and supported my journey. Surround yourself with people who encourage your growth and push you to be better.
Most importantly, remember why you started. Passion is what carries you through the difficult moments. If you stay committed to your craft and your purpose, the right opportunities will come.
Pricing:
- Individual Privates: 65/hour
- Solo Choreography: 275
- Duo/Trio Choreography: 300flat
- Class Rate: 45/hour or class
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iona_dances
Image Credits
Elaine Pettit Photography, JayAllen Media, Royal Production/ShotbyRoyalty
