Words from our readers

Thanks so much for this one [“Wish They’d Stay, Wish They’d Go,” DSL, October 2008]! Although we all think that way, it’s nice to see the words in print to confirm what we are feeling. This year, for the first time in over 30 years, I suggested that a parent find another school after only one week of evaluation. I stated that it was quite clear to me that she felt she knew better than my staff in what level her daughters should be placed. If she was that insistent, hardly knowing me, what would she be like in a year? That was not something I wanted to experience! It’s a hard decision to make but better for all in the long run!

Tracy Davenport
St. Charles, MO

I just finished reading Tom Ralabate’s articles on jazz [“Defining Jazz Dance,” “All That’s Jazz,” DSL, December 2008]. This was so fantastic. What a great piece of information! (I think Tom is one of the very best.) I think that type of article has been missing; congrats to you for those stories.

Debbi Dee
Debbi Dee Productions, Inc.
Boynton Beach, FL

Reading the letter from Lee [“Ask Rhee Gold,” DSL, December 2008] was like reading a letter from me! It brought up so much emotion as I am facing burnout myself. I so love the art of dance. Ballet is still beautiful. I get excited watching tap and jazz. The issue is the business of dance. I have a hard time thinking of putting myself first, as I’m sure most women do, but I will most certainly try. If not, I may end up in a loony bin!

Thank you for your articles and all your work for our wonderful profession. I have been to several of your conferences and always leave rejuvenated!

Kim Farmer
Mulford Dance Studio
Mount Ephraim, NJ

I have been reading your publication for years. It has been an inspiration and an affirmation of all my goals and hard work. You speak for all of us with neighborhood studios, dedicated to personally making a difference to many lives through dance.

I had to sell my studio two years ago due to circumstances beyond my control. I have continued to get your magazine and have been very grateful for it. It’s the only dance magazine I read anymore. It warms my heart. What’s in there reflects what’s at the top, and that’s you. Just as I was my studio, you are your magazine, and it’s wonderful. No other magazine can come up to your standards in its genre.

Margo Slaughter
formerly Springfield School of Dance
Springfield, OR