Today we’d like to introduce you to Heidi Yancey
Hi Heidi, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Heidi Marie Yancey. I am Delaware’s First African American Ballerina. I am the owner of Heidis Academy International. I am also the Performing Arts Director at Bradley-Otis Boys and Girls Club. I started dancing at the age of 5 years old in Newark, Delaware. At the age of 13 years old I made history being the first African American Ballerina to perform in a Ballet in Delaware. I was then selected to attend Duke Ellington School Of The Arts in Washington, DC. This prestigious school is the best in the country. After high school I was danced with Alivin Aiely Dance Company, Russian Ballet Company, other dance companies, performed on Broadway, appeared on tv shows and much more. During my prime years I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. When I was diagnosed I wasn’t expected to live. I lost all mobility in my body. I suffered for 12 years of very little mobility in my body. I am now healed! I am the 1% that has survived MS. I went from being a prima ballerina to losing all mobility to being delivered! I know share my gifts and talents to youth to in the Performing Arts giving them an experience of a life time in training and performing on prestigious stages and travel.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The struggles with the business is of course Covid and rebuilding the business. Challenges are also parents being able to pay for tuition at times.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
* I am a Performing Arts Director, Teacher and Performer. I teach Musical Theatre, and other various dance classes to under priviledge students. I train them up for the stage and travel with them in musicals. I also give the students opportunity in the community to perform and give back to the community as well. I am most proud of bringing my students to the Dr Phillips Performing Arts Stage with a sold out crowd in one week twice. We perform Annie The Remix which I wrote myself telling the story of what children really go through in foster care. What makes me different is sharing my story with them, dare to dream! And we travel with this production! I am giving them an opportunity of a life time!
What are your plans for the future?
My plans are to grow the studio and open an Elementary Performing Arts School. I am looking to growing the school and offer the Arts to students who parents cant afford to send them to get training in the Arts.
Pricing:
- $15 a class/hour
Contact Info:
- Website: https://heidisacademy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cy4Ut93LOjJ/
