#BOYSDANCETOO
A TRENDING TOPIC REMINDING US THAT NOT ALL ATHLETES PLAY SPORTS
Aaron Carr
L.A. DANCE PROJECT | LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
How were you introduced to dance?
Growing up, we had a “dance night” at my house with my dad while my mom went to choir rehearsal. My older sister Emily also danced. I think it was at her dress rehearsal for Alice in Wonderland—with all the different characters, the changing sets, and the drops flying in and out. I got hooked and wanted to be a part of it.
Have you experienced any challenges with being a male dancer?
One of the challenges I faced was finding my particular voice in dance. Ihad a hard time because I was trying to emulate what I saw in the room—which was all girls. I toned that down a little and tried to be more like one of the boys at soccer practice. What stopped my mind from worrying was modern dance and how natural that felt to move from inside, instead of what I saw around me.
Are you happy now?
Definitely happy now. I have been lucky to surpass everything I could have dreamed for myself, and to still have dancing be at the center of my life.
Alvin Tovstogray
OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET | OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA
How were you introduced to dance?
My hometown of Dnipro, Ukraine, has a diverse cultural heritage. My family took me to see ballet as a child quite often.
Have you experienced any challenges with being a male dancer?
The word “misunderstood” comes to mind. As a male ballet dancer I frequently have to explain that “no, I do not dance on pointe.” Or, “yes, it’s a real full-time job.”
Are you happy now?
Very much so! To me, being happy is what this career is about. I find moments and experiences that make me happy
Brandon Coleman
KEIGWIN + COMPANY | NEW YORK, NEW YORK
How were you introduced to dance?
I started taking jazz classes when I was six or seven. At the time, I wanted to be the next member of N*SYNC or the Spice Girls, but unfortunately both groups ended before I turned ten. I loved to perform and be onstage, so I stuck with it.
Have you experienced any challenges with being a male dancer?
The biggest was dealing with bullies in elementary school and junior high. I felt like I had to put on a more masculine persona in order to be accepted. I was always a little hesitant to tell new friends that I loved to dance, out of fear of being made fun of or rejected.
Are you happy now?
Definitely. Dance has brought me to incredible countries, theaters, and people. I get to work hard, laugh, and do what I love everyday. It’s not always easy, but knowing I can inspire other boys that dream of being performers and artists someday makes the harder days worth it.
Chalvar Monterio
ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER | NEW YORK, NEW YORK
How were you introduced to dance?
I was introduced to dance around the age of nine through the dance ministry at my church. A few years later, right before my freshman year, I was given a scholarship to a local dance studio which served as my introduction to formal dance training.
Have you experienced any challenges with being a male dancer?
My first challenge was being the only male dancer I knew. My biggest challenge was coming to terms with my body type. I chose to take matters in my own hands and make a regimen that serves me as a dancer and a person who wants to maintain healthy habits.
Are you happy now?
I’m so happy and blessed to be in a company I’ve worked my whole life to be a part of. Now it’s my turn to influence the next generation—it feels like this is when the real work begins.