By: Danni Thompson
Tesla Bivins arrives to the dance studio as quickly as she can after school pick-up. She rushes in, speaker and snacks in hand, ready for a long night of rehearsal.
She immediately begins her 3:30 stretch, tumble, and technique class. She said flexibility is essential to preventing injury and improving overall performance in all dance styles.
Bivins adjusts a students' position, pushing her to stretch harder. She emphasizes proper technique early so her dancers build strong habits.
She guides her students through a series of back flexibility exercises. "Technique is everything," she said. "If a dancer has a flexible back, legs, and feet, they have pretty much all they need."
Bivins takes her class outside for the tumbling section of the class to allow for more space. She explained that pushing her dancers is important, but safety is her top priority.
She celebrates with her dancer, Adley, after she lands her back tuck for the first time. Both of their hard work had finally paid off.
Bivins comes inside and prepares the music for the next class as young dancers file in to the studio. Competition season is approaching and this week's rehearsal will be intense.
She sets up the prop for her petite small group jazz number. Dancers are stretching and preparing for rehearsal as she gets the space ready.
Bivins stands at the front of the studio, calling out counts as the dancers move across the floor. She cues timing and transitions to make sure the routine stays sharp.
Bivins gathers her older dancers before running their competition routine. She reminds them that confidence is what will set them apart on stage.
Bivins speaks and gestures passionately while giving notes between rehearsals. She said moments like these help her dancers refocus and understand the seriousness of the moment.
Seemingly encouraged after the strict discussion, dancers rehearse again. This run was much better technically and a lot more effort was exuded.
During the clogging super group rehearsal, Bivins fills in for a dancer who is absent. She sets an example using her actions rather than words, showing dancers how the dance should be performed.
Putting in more effort on the first run though than some of the dancers, she proves that sometimes what is done is greater than what is said. The second run through was much more dynamic than the first because dancers did not want to be out shined.
Bivins wraps up rehearsal by asking "Who thinks they're ready for competition?", she asked. Some dancers hands shot up with confidence while others were a bit apprehensive.
As she begins her last rehearsal for the night, a different vibe is sensed in the studio. Peeking through the door, there was a tension that filled the room because of the pressure put on the dancers to perform at their best, even though it was 8:00 p.m.
Bivins stops the music and walks onto the floor to correct a formation. "What are we doing?" she asked dancers as she explained that clean formations can make or break a routine.
Running the dance for the last time, the girls and Bivins have a fresh sense of purpose and confidence. This run through was just what they needed to feel prepared for competition.
Bivins celebrates with her dancers as they jump in excitement after a flawless run through at 9:00 p.m. She said moments like this remind her why the long rehearsals are worth it.
