From Grief to Grace: The Story Behind For The Love of Dance

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 connect. She trained under inspiring mentors, one of whom was China White where she would meet Darlene Hart , a brilliant and passionate dancer who quickly became not only a mentor but a beloved friend and inspiration to Paris.

Tragically, Ms. Darlen’s life was taken due to domestic violence, an event that shook Paris to her core. Determined to honor her friend’s legacy, Paris founded FTLOD as a space where dancers could grow not only in skill, but in strength, voice, and purpose.

Paris’ journey from student to founder was rooted in resilience. What began as a tribute soon evolved into a movement. Every year, under her artistic direction, FTLOD stages powerful performances that bring awareness to urgent social issues, women’s abuse, opioid addiction, racial inequality, mental health, and more, turning stages into spaces for justice and empathy.