Today we’d like to introduce you to Bailey Holladay.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
When someone asks me about my story, I often think, “Well, I don’t have one!” It’s challenging for me to see myself as someone with an interesting enough narrative that people would want to hear. However, these moments of reflection allow me to recognize the profound influence my experiences have had on me.
At the age of 3, my mother enrolled me in dance lessons at The Winner School in Holladay, UT. For 15 years, I dedicated myself to training there under the guidance of Ashley Butler-Autry and Shannon Doerr. After graduating, I pursued a major in Kinesiology at the University of Utah. As an 18-year-old fresh out of high school, I realized the need to find employment. With my dance background as the only substantial experience I had, I decided to pursue a position as a dance instructor. It was during this time that I discovered my deep passion for teaching and imparting knowledge about the art form of dance. Over the years, I have had the privilege of teaching at various local studios across the valley, sharing my love and expertise through thoughtful instruction.
It was through teaching that I had the incredible opportunity to meet my most significant friend and mentor, Hannah Millar. Hannah Millar is a world-renowned and highly sought-after choreographer, currently residing in Yosemite, California. She serves as the artistic director of Imprints Dance Company, based in Los Angeles. In 2019, after our initial meeting, Hannah invited me to perform in her piece titled “Let Us Bleed, Not Heal,” which premiered at MashUp’s International Women’s Day choreography festival in LA.
The success of this performance led to an offer for Hannah to develop a full-length evening show based on this work. She decided to accept the offer, dedicating the show to her healing journey following the loss of her mother in 2014. From September 2020 to July 2022, I traveled to Los Angeles each month to rehearse for the world premiere of “Let Us Bleed, Then Heal.” Throughout 2022-2023, we toured, bringing this show to audiences in Los Angeles, Central California, and Utah. Being a part of Imprints Dance Company has been the most incredible experience of my life, and I am immensely grateful to still be with them as we prepare for our upcoming show, “exploding, beautiful, you,” which will debut on May 3-5 in Yosemite, California.
With my background as a dancer, dance teacher, and kinesiologist, I am actively engaged in the development of an exercise and wellness program tailored for individuals with chronic illnesses. Recognizing the profound impact movement can have on the mind, body, and soul, my goal is to create a source of healing for those who endure chronic pain. It is through the act of assisting others that I have discovered my true identity as a nurturer.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges during the creation of “Let Us Bleed, Then Heal” and in the realm of dance as a whole. Due to travel restrictions and safety concerns, I faced months of being unable to fly, which impacted the production process.
Additionally, all dance lessons had to be conducted via Zoom, requiring me to adapt to virtual teaching. It was a unique experience learning choreography through online videos, often practicing in my basement. Furthermore, I dedicated hours to attending lectures and completing the majority of my college education online.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My area of expertise lies in contemporary and jazz dance. I have developed a reputation for my unique ability to convey a storyline through dance and movement.
One particular performance that I am immensely proud of is my portrayal of a mother in “Let Us Bleed, Then Heal”. It was a role that allowed me to showcase my skills, and I was humbled by the feedback I received. I was so convincing in my portrayal that some people believed I was a 45-year-old with children!
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Serendipity played a pivotal role in my journey of securing a spot as a company member on Imprints.
However, I prefer to believe that the universe meticulously orchestrated the details, making it more than mere luck. To me, it feels like a manifestation of fate.
Pricing:
- Donation of $25
- Donation of $50
- Donation of $75
- Donation of $100
- Donation of $200-500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hannahrmillar.com/donateandsupport
- Instagram: @imprints.company
Image Credits
KAMera Shoots and Taso Papadakis
