Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqueline Robinson.
Hi Jacqueline, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hello, my name is Jacqueline Robinson, and I’m originally from Opelousas, Louisiana. My passion for dance began at just two years old at Cindy’s School of Dance in Sulphur, Louisiana. After moving back to Opelousas, I continued my training at Sharon’s School of Dance and later at Hebert’s Dance Center, where I graduated in 2012.
During my time at Opelousas Catholic School, I was a dedicated cheerleader and had the honor of serving as captain of the cheer team for the 2012–2013 school year. Throughout high school, I trained under a variety of renowned choreographers from So You Think You Can Dance and Broadway, which helped shape my versatility and performance style.
After graduating, I began working with Varsity Spirit through the Universal Cheerleaders Association, where I am proud to now be entering my 14th year on staff. I continued my education at Lamar State College–Port Arthur, where I danced for two years and served as captain of the dance team both years.
Driven by determination and resilience, I pursued my dream of becoming a Houston Rockets Power Dancer. After years of auditioning and refusing to give up, I earned my place on the team and was honored as Rookie of the Year in 2018. I spent two incredible years performing with the Houston Rockets.
Following that chapter, I joined the Texas Southern University Tiger Sensations, where I became a leader on the team. Today, I continue to give back as a guest choreographer, helping to inspire and train the next generation of dancers.
Currently, I work at Extreme Level Dance as a jazz and acro coach and choreographer. In addition to my work in dance, I am also a middle school educator in Houston, teaching Principles of Exercise Science and Wellness.
No matter the role—teacher, coach, or choreographer—I am deeply passionate about motivating others. I strive to uplift dancers and students, encouraging them to stay positive through challenges, especially when pursuing competitive opportunities. I always remind them: go beyond your dreams and reach for the stars—because the sky is not the limit.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
During my journey and becoming a professional dancer has not been the smoothest ride I have endured lots of blood, sweat and tears to get where I am today. Through the changes of appearance and changing how I attack a challenge has always been different each time that I have went for something.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Currently, I serve as a middle school principal, as well as an exercise science and wellness teacher and cheer coach. In addition to my work in education, I am actively involved in the dance industry. I teach at a dance studio and work with the Universal Cheerleaders Association as a head instructor on staff.
In the studio and on stage, I specialize in hip-hop, jazz funk, street jazz, technique, and acro. One of my proudest accomplishments is the legacy I built as a member of the Houston Rockets Power Dancers. That experience helped shape my journey as both a performer and a coach.
I am passionate about encouraging both men and women to pursue their dreams, no matter how many times they hear “no.” Sometimes, “not right now” simply means “yes” in the future. What sets me apart is my determination, dedication, and commitment to inspiring dancers of all ages to keep pushing forward—whether their goal is the stage, the court, or the field.
I wouldn’t be where I am today if I had given up. What started as four years of striving to earn a uniform became some of the most transformative years of my life—teaching me resilience, self-awareness, and the value of trusting my journey.
How do you define success?
Success from a professional dancer’s standpoint goes far beyond titles, trophies, or being on a specific team. While achievements—like performing with organizations such as the Houston Rockets Power Dancers or working with groups like the Universal Cheerleaders Association—can be meaningful milestones, they are only part of the bigger picture.
At its core, success in dance is about longevity, growth, and impact. It’s the ability to consistently train, improve your craft, and adapt in an industry that is constantly evolving. A successful dancer maintains strong technique, versatility across styles, and the discipline to keep showing up—even when opportunities don’t come easily.
It’s also about resilience. Professional dancers face rejection often, and success is defined by how you respond to it—using it as motivation rather than a stopping point. The dancers who last are the ones who keep pushing, refining, and believing in their path despite setbacks.
Equally important is purpose and influence. Success means using your platform and experience to inspire others, whether that’s through teaching, mentoring, or simply leading by example. If you can impact younger dancers, help them grow in confidence, and guide them toward their own goals, that’s a powerful form of success.
Finally, success is personal fulfillment. It’s waking up and knowing you are doing what you love, staying true to who you are as an artist, and finding joy in the process—not just the outcome.
In short, a successful professional dancer is not just someone who “makes it,” but someone who grows, endures, inspires, and remains authentic throughout their journey.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_iamjrob
