By Jonathan Hargrove, March 10, 2026
WA Performance School
Dance is often described as a universal language, transcending barriers of culture, age, and social status. It is an art form that not only conveys joy and creativity but also serves as a powerful medium for self-expression and connection among individuals. One of the most pivotal experiences in my journey as a dancer unfolded during a vibrant evening at a popular Brooklyn dance party. This experience profoundly reshaped my understanding of dance as an expressive practice beyond technical precision.
Discovering the Essence of Dance in Brooklyn
It was the year 2017, and I found myself standing on the corner of South Second and Borinquen, surrounded by the pulsating rhythm of a dance party called Sole Therapy. This monthly gathering thrived on the energy of New York’s dance community, where local dancers came together to celebrate house music and disco, all the while contributing to charitable initiatives through their attendance. Everyone danced—not just to impress, but to connect, to feel, and to express in ways that were sometimes beyond words.
For many aspiring dancers, the pathway to success often involves rigorous training steeped in formal techniques. While I was committed to my Broadway dreams, the notion of connecting my extensive training to club culture felt distant. However, as I immersed myself in the free-spirited atmosphere of Sole Therapy, something began to shift within me. I started to recognize that the world of dance was far broader than the confines of a studio or an audition stage.
A Moment of Epiphany
As I moved to the beat, intoxicated by the thrill of improvisation rather than prescribed choreography, I caught sight of a woman across the room whose movement captivated me. She danced with such conviction and grace that it struck a chord deep within me. Urged by a wave of admiration, I felt compelled to convey my appreciation for her expression.
As I approached her through the throng of bodies, my expectations shaped by clichés of charisma and strength led me to anticipate a booming voice, the kind that would echo the same confidence she exuded on the dance floor. However, upon hearing her speak, I was met with a distinctly soft and ordinary voice. In that moment, a light bulb went on in my head: dancers possess a multiplicity of voices, both physical and verbal. This realization struck me as remarkably profound.
In that sweaty basement beneath the disco ball, I grasped an essential truth—dance offers an alternative language that can convey depths of meaning and emotion, often more powerfully than spoken words. The raw, unpolished expressions that arise from the dancefloor can communicate our experiences, desires, and identities in ways formal performances sometimes cannot. This epiphany reinforced my understanding that dance could be a celebration, a release, and, ultimately, a joyous act of human connection.
The Joy of Movement
As a teenager, my weekend mornings were often spent at the dance studio, joyfully engaging in pirouettes and pliés as a supplement to my usual synagogue routine. That passion compelled me to navigate the vibrant world of dance across New York City, but it was those serendipitous moments outside of the confines of traditional settings that expanded my appreciation for the art form. It reinforced my belief that dance is intrinsically human, a fundamental expression of who we are.
My experiences at Sole Therapy—stripped of judgment and competition—demonstrated that dance transcends choreography. It is a language in itself, capable of articulating emotions that words cannot encapsulate. Martha Graham once said, “The body says what words cannot.” Her sentiment resonated with me as I witnessed the array of voices that emerged in the dance space, confirming that the art form is not merely about technical skill; it is an embodiment of our experiences and realities.
My journey in dance has been enriched through engagement with various styles and settings. Each dance form—from ballet to hip-hop—brings its own vocabulary, and I continually discover new ways that movement can express the human experience. Whether it be the technical precision of classical ballet or the improvisational freedom of street dance, my evolution has been defined not only by formal training but by the moments that inspire communal celebration and individual expression.
The Significance of Dance
In my dance practice, I strive to hold space for the joy and the catharsis that comes from movement. To participate in dance, especially in informal settings like Sole Therapy, allows individuals to embrace their authenticity without fear of judgment. This kind of dance encourages exploration and experimentation, welcoming dancers of all backgrounds to express their truths on the dance floor.
Over time, I found that my passion for dance was fueled by a compelling desire to share its benefits. Every dance class I teach or attend not only hones my skills but creates an opportunity for connection—both within myself and with others. It is about communication, understanding, and mutual respect built through the shared language of movement. Each instance where dancers converge in a space reflects a microcosm of human interaction, filled with stories, laughter, and sometimes tears. Dance binds us together, forging connections that transcend the superficial.
Conclusion: Embracing the Diversity of Dance
As I reflect on my journey and the transformative experience at that Brooklyn dance party, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned. Dance is a multifaceted form of expression that holds the capacity to challenge, uplift, and celebrate our collective humanity. It is a joyous celebration of life itself—raw, unfiltered, and fun. The essence of dance lies not just in its ability to entertain but in its power to communicate experiences that are uniquely ours. As we gather to let ourselves be seen and heard through movement, we are reminded that there is strength in embracing our authentic selves.
For those looking to harness the joy of dance, programs and workshops supporting diverse forms of dance, such as those offered by the WA Performance School, provide a nurturing environment. Here, individuals can explore the depths of self-expression through dance, fostering a community of learners who understand the importance of movement in our lives.
Ultimately, dance remains an invitation to express ourselves freely, connect with others, and explore the profound joy that resides within the act of celebrating life through movement.
Disclaimer: The content presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. For specific inquiries related to dance and performance, please seek professional guidance.