Senior Bri Katz ‘26 is nearing her final performances as a dancer this spring. She has had a passion for dance since she was two years old. She is a dancer at Pennsylvania Academy of Dance Arts, where she has been performing since 2018.
Dance has become a major part of her life. She trains in many different styles, including jazz, tap, musical theater, ballet, hip-hop, lyrical and contemporary. Along with many extra hours of conditioning and technique training.
Every year, she has taken part in a winter Nutcracker, a spring recital and five to seven competitions throughout the spring. Her commitment to her team is strong and has helped her become who she is today.
“Dance has helped me grow as a person because it gives me discipline and helps me learn time management, which is something that is important,” Katz said.
So far, this competition season has been successful. Katz has earned many awards from various competitions. Specifically, her duet, solos and group dances have gained numerous first place awards and other special recognition, like technique shoutouts and highest scoring dances of the weekend.
Balancing dance and school can be challenging, but Katz has found a way that allows her to be as successful as she can be.
“I balance school and dance by trying to be organized and using my free periods as much as I can,” Katz said. “I try to get as much of my schoolwork done in school because I do not get home from dance until very late. This is something I have been balancing since I was little, so I am used to it.”
At her dance studio she has also been able to gain new leadership skills and teach the new generation of dancers on the weekends. She devotes her Saturday mornings to train the younger kids, which brings her a different perspective on the dance experience.
“It’s really special to me that I have the opportunity to work with the younger girls at my dance studio on the weekends.” Katz said. “I love being able to teach the little girls from the beginning and see their progress throughout the year.”
Beyond the awards and performances, Katz values how supported she is by her teammates and also how she feels like she is able to dance whenever.
“I like dance because it is something that I can always do and it helps me feel better,” Katz said. “I also like seeing my improvement and it is fun being around others who want the same goals as me.”
Looking ahead, Katz plans to continue her dance journey into college. She wants to explore all the different opportunities dance has to offer. She is planning on attending Tulane University with a minor in dance.
With the strong work ethic and determination Katz has, she continues to thrive on and off the dance floor, making big success for her current life and her future.