5 to Watch 2021: McKenzie Lewis
Each year, we feature 5 young ballerinas who are on the road to creative success. Due to their growth, hard work, and accomplishments, we’ve kept these girls on our radar, and will continue to look after them as they blossom in their dance careers!
McKenzie Lewis is a 13-year-old ballerina based in Atlanta, Georgia. She started dancing when she was 3-and-a-half years old, performing at Norma’s Academy of Dance. McKenzie currently takes lessons at The Atlanta Dance Academy, where she studies ballet and pointe.
Continue reading our interview with McKenzie below to learn why we named her one of Brown Girls Do Ballet’s 5 to Watch for 2021!
Photo: Shoccara Marcus
What’s a dance accomplishment that you are proud of and why?
The dance accomplishment that I am most proud of is when I was chosen to be a featured dancer in a commercial for locs. Not only was I able to showcase my dance ability, but I was also able to show that you can be a versatile ballerina.
What’s your most memorable dance moment?
My most memorable dance moment was when I was chosen to experience Debbie Allen’s summer intensive program. During that time, I was able to work with her and other excellent instructors in different genres of dance. It helped me become a better dancer and taught me how to thrive professionally in the dance industry.
What inspires you?
I am a beginning ballet instructor at my Mom’s school. I am blessed to work with young girls between the ages of 5-9. What inspires me the most is when I see their faces when they master a new dance skill or when I encourage them to be the best dancer they can be.
What’s your favorite part about being a dancer or the dance industry in general?
My favorite part about being a dancer is being a role model for younger generations, telling a story through dance, and using my gift to glorify God.
If you could change the future of dance, what changes would you make?
If I can change the future of dance, I would change the way ballerinas view themselves. The standard is that dancers have to have a specific look. We were all created differently. This means that there isn’t one body type. For a while, I told myself I wasn’t good enough because I have locs. I wasn’t the right size because I was too short, and I didn’t belong because I was always the youngest in my class. I want to remind everyone that dance is supposed to be fun, enjoyable, and used as a gift to bring a smile to someone's face, just like it did mine when I was younger.
Photo: Hollywood Headshots
Every day, McKenzie wakes up at about 8:00 AM to get dressed and work on homeschool work. She spends the day practicing dance, resting, and attending acting class. This summer, McKenzie will attend the Joffrey Dance School Summer Intensive program in Los Angeles, California. She’ll also teach beginner’s ballet class in her Mom’s educational center, Educationally Speaking Center for Learning, Inc. You can follow McKenzie’s dance journey here!