Resources and Blogs

Paris MilesFounder/Owner/Artistic Director Paris Miles is the visionary behind For The Love of Dance (FTLOD), a dance school born from both heartbreak and hope. Paris began dancing at nearly 2 years old, discovering early on her love for dance. Later, she realized that dance is more than an art form. It was a way to heal, speak, and…...

Columbus Arts Rising: How Young Creatives and FTLOD Dancers Thrive Together Columbus, Ohio’s arts scene is blooming, and it’s not just the galleries and theaters buzzing with creativity. Across the city, young people are discovering their passion for performance, visual arts, and storytelling through vibrant youth programs, community revitalization efforts, and world-class cultural spaces. Here's…...

A Day in the Life of a Professional BallerinaBy For The Love of DanceFrom the outside, the life of a professional ballerina can appear graceful, glamorous, and ethereal. But behind every effortless pirouette and dramatic grand jeté is a structured, disciplined, and deeply demanding routine. The daily life of a ballerina is a balance of…...

For the Love of Humanity 2: A Performance That Moved the Soul On June 21 and June 22, 2025, our hearts were full, our spirits lifted, and the stage came alive once more as For the Love of Dance proudly presented For the Love of Humanity 2 — an unforgettable celebration of movement, storytelling, and…...

Boosts Confidence and Public SpeakingEngaging in acting classes helps children overcome stage fright, improve articulation, and develop strong communication skills. Research indicates that performing in front of others enhances self-esteem and social confidence.Enhances Emotional Intelligence and EmpathyActing teaches children how to understand and express emotions, making them more empathetic. Studies suggest that role-playing different perspectives…...

  Self-care is more than just a trend—it’s essential for our mental and physical well-being. If you’re looking for ways to feel good, reduce stress, and elevate your mood, try incorporating these five self-care activities into your routine. Backed by science, these simple yet effective habits can make a significant difference in your overall health and…...

Did you know that the traditional pink ballet tights and shoes were designed to match the fair skin tones of early European ballerinas?While this created a seamless aesthetic, it also excluded dancers with darker skin tones, making them stand out rather than blend in. In 1974, the Dance Theatre of Harlem changed the game. Dancer Llanchie Stevenson pushed for flesh-tone tights and shoes that matched…...

Debbie Allen, born on January 16, 1950, in Houston, Texas, is a multifaceted artist renowned for her significant contributions to dance, acting, and choreography. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Lydia Grant in the 1980 film "Fame" where she delivered the iconic line: "You've got big dreams? You want fame? Well, fame costs.…...

5 Reasons Science Says Ballerinas/Dancers Should Also Take Acting Classes: A Path to Enhancing Performance     Dance is an art form that requires intense physicality, but what about the emotions and stories conveyed through those graceful movements? Ballerinas and dancers can elevate their performances by incorporating acting techniques into their training. Science and studies…...

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent humanitarian whose unwavering commitment to civil rights, economic justice, and nonviolent activism significantly influenced American society. His efforts not only advanced the cause of racial equality but also left an indelible mark on Black dance culture in America.Dr. King's Humanitarian ContributionsAs a minister and leader of the American…...

Ballet, often seen as the epitome of grace and precision, has historically been dominated by white performers, leaving Black and Brown ballerinas underrepresented and excluded. However, over the past several decades, there has been a gradual but powerful shift. The rise of Black and Brown ballerinas in the world of dance represents more than just…...

Darlene Hart(May 2, 1964 - July 14, 2012)Theatre Street Dance Academy Annual production. FTLOD does not own the rights to the images. Remembering Darlene Hart: The Inspiration Behind For the Love of Dance The art of dance has the power to transform lives, inspire hearts, and leave a lasting impact on generations. Few embodied this truth…...

Judith JamisonJudith Jamison, an iconic figure in the dance world, is synonymous with excellence, grace, and innovation. A towering presence in modern dance, her work as a dancer, choreographer, and leader reshaped the landscape of the art form. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of dancers and audiences worldwide, and we honor her immeasurable contributions…...

10 foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties https://www.bing.com/images/blob?bcid=SyVFoHdpcL0HecanzZTUAbKPeLsw.....9M 1. BerriesBlueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which can help reduce inflammation. https://www.bing.com/images/blob?bcid=S.D7k5rSAL0HecanzZTUAbKPeLsw.....6U 2. Fatty FishSalmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to lower inflammation levels. https://wallpaperaccess.com/full/9809799.jpg 3. Leafy GreensSpinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with…...

Common Ballet Injuries and Prevention Strategies Ballet is a beautiful and demanding art form, but it also comes with its share of injuries. Here are five common injuries that ballet dancers may face, along with strategies to prevent them.Ankle SprainsAnkle sprains occur when ligaments around the ankle are stretched or torn, often from landing awkwardly…...

Supporting Your Dancer’s Healthy Self-Image and Body Image Dance can be an incredible source of confidence, strength, and discipline for young dancers. But with its emphasis on performance and physicality, it’s essential for parents to play a role in fostering a healthy self-image and body image in their children. Here’s a look at some proactive…...

Gregory HinesGregory Hines was a trailblazing American tap dancer, actor, singer, and choreographer celebrated for his contributions to the world of dance, particularly tap. Known for his smooth, intricate rhythms, he helped bring tap dance back into mainstream popularity during the late 20th century. Here’s an in-depth look at his life, achievements, and iconic dance…...

Misty Copeland’s Inspiring Journey A trailblazing ballerina has an inspiring journey marked by resilience and remarkable accomplishments. Here are five facts about her: First Black Principal Dancer at ABT Started Ballet Late Broadway Star Author of Bestselling Memoirs Time's 100 Most Influential People First Black Principal Dancer at ABT In 2015, Misty made history as the…...

Arthur MitchellArthur Mitchell is a name synonymous with innovation and transformation in the world of dance, particularly through his work with the Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH). His journey is not just a personal narrative but a significant chapter in the history of ballet and African American representation in the arts. Born on March 27,…...

Introduction: Ballet is often celebrated for its grace and beauty, but its benefits extend far beyond the dance floor. Whether you are a child or an adult, engaging in ballet can lead to significant improvements in various aspects of life. Here, we’ll explore the top benefits of ballet that can enhance your physical health, boost…...