The Power of Being Small

I recently had the opportunity to represent Rhode Island at the National Dance Education Organization's (NDEO) annual conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Gathering with passionate dance artists, educators, researchers, and advocates from across the country was energizing and affirming. There's something powerful about being surrounded by people who share a commitment to dance. From emerging research on bringing dance into healthcare to pressing conversations about the challenges facing our industry, I felt connected to like-minded peers all circling similar questions: How do we better serve our communities? How do we create more opportunities for dance to thrive? I returned home feeling inspired by the exchange of ideas and the reassuring reminder that we're all part of something much bigger.

One of the highlights was connecting with representatives from other state dance education affiliates. Each state has its own approach, resources, and circumstances. I'll admit, seeing larger states with substantial memberships and robust infrastructure initially made me wonder: What can little Rhody do? They have the numbers, the resources, the people power! (And surely a much easier time filling a committee.)

But as I spoke with representatives from those states, an interesting theme emerged. Their size, while offering certain advantages, also creates challenges. Artists and educators are spread across vast distances, making it harder to gather, connect, and build a cohesive community.

Now, geography has always been one of my favorite subjects (yes, I was that kid who actually enjoyed looking at maps!), so perhaps I was especially attuned to this. But it got me thinking:

What if Rhode Island's small size isn't our limitation, but our greatest strength?

We have the unique opportunity to build a dance community where people can actually know one another. Where artists, educators, choreographers, studio owners, and advocates can cross paths, share ideas, collaborate, and show up for one another. We're close enough to gather, build relationships, and strengthen connections across the state. From one corner to the other, we're not all that far apart! Just pack a day bag.

Of course, proximity alone doesn't create community. It takes intention. It takes showing up, reaching across disciplines and generations, sharing what we know, and recognizing that the strength of our field depends on the strength of our relationships.

I returned from Albuquerque emboldened by what's possible here. I'm excited to roll up my sleeves, bring people together, and help strengthen the connections that allow dance to flourish in Rhode Island. I see RIDA as a place to make those connections happen.

We don't need to be the biggest state to build something meaningful. We just need to keep finding ways to connect, support one another, and invest in the community we share.

So, let's make the most of what makes us uniquely Rhode Island. Let's find one another, show up for one another, and keep dancing!