Photo by Dew Rattanas
When I first arrived to New York at 20 years of age I was so eager to find community and learn all things dance related, I aspired to one day put my skills into action. Three years later after my arrival to the US and after graduating from the Certificate Program at Peridance Center I found Green Space.
I had my first encounter with Green Space by participating in their Fertile Ground Series in October 2023, where I showcased a solo performed by a friend of mine. Later that evening I meet Valerie Green.
Since then I’ve worked alongside Valerie as Programs Manager at her studio. I got to take on and to learn various roles such as; Box Office, House Manager, facilitated communications amongst artists, Social Media management, Photographer and Videographer. And even a guest dancer in Splash! All of which, have gifted me a new perspective as an artist.
Helping artists to bring their vision into the stage is a magical act often overlooked by the spectators, with Green Space I was lucky enough to witness the process behind the curtain.
Valerie has been a mentor and an indispensable figure in my dance career not only as a dancer and choreographer but also as an arts administrator. The knowledge that I’ve received and the artists I’ve exchanged conversations with since working at Green Space is something that I will always carry with me. The willingness that Valerie Green has to help artists to further develop their craft is beyond limits. She is the perfect example of excellence and perseverance that women in the arts hold, especially in New York City.
As I exit my position as Programs Manager at Green Space I want to thank not only Valerie, but the Valerie Green/ Dance Entropy dancers, the artists at our Take Root and Fertile Ground series for trusting me with your creative vision.
Thanks to Green Space for opening their doors and for being a home to many in the creative field.