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HomeMadi Hicks 2012

Madi Hicks 15 ~ Amber Strauser Scholarship

 

 

My name is Madi Hicks and I am currently a 15 year old sophomore at Booker T Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. I have spent the last 14 years training in and studying the art of dance with many teachers and choreographers who have shown me the endless possibilities of the dance world and continue to guide me into being a better dancer and person. I have most recently been a soloist in the Dallas Repertoire Ballet’s Nutcracker and danced a duo at Resounding Harmony’s Spring Benefit Concert. I was honored to be named New York City Dance Alliance’s National Teen Outstanding Dancer in New York this past summer and am touring with NYCDA this year. I am also a Pulse Protégé, Nuvo Breakout Artist Winner, and Jump VIP Winner.

My goals for the next 2 years include continuing my training in contemporary, ballet, and modern dance along with all forms of dance at my high school and studio. I will also attend conventions and intensives whenever possible and am working towards majoring in dance at a college after I graduate from Booker T. I want to dance for a professional contemporary company someday like Cedar Lake or Complexions. Dance is my life.

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Ace Awards runner-up

I greatly appreciate this scholarship awarded to me by DCNT this year. With the funds provided, I was able to attend the Capezio A.C.E. Awards and Dance Teacher’s Summit in New York City in August. I danced in a contemporary piece which was created for this event. My group and the choreographer, Bree Hafen, received the honor of placing in the top 3 amongst some of the most talented choreographers and dancers in this country. I also had the experience of attending classes provided for the dancers at the Summit with artists such as Mandy Moore and Denise Wall and got to perform my solo in a showcase. 

This experience far exceeded my expectations and provided me with unique training in a small environment along with my peers and people in the industry that inspire me. Denise Wall impressed me in class with her knowledge of the body and movement in dance and helpful hints on taking better care of our body. I was the youngest age allowed to attend this event so I felt so honored to be there dancing in a piece and in classes. While there, we were able to attend a show put on by one of last year’s top 3 choreographers and it was incredible to see these dancers on stage. I look forward to the opportunity to be a part of such a show someday. I knew many of the dancers and teachers there but was able to meet more of my peers and experience meeting and watching some of the most talented choreographers and dancers in this country. I made many new friends from the dance world.


This summer experience will help me throughout my year because I feel like I grew as a dancer and a potential contemporary choreographer that week with all that I was able to see and learn. The Amber Strauser scholarship helps young artists like me to grow and learn and realize their dreams. Dance is my life and I again thank DCNT for providing me with the ability to experience this life changing event.