Today we’d like to introduce you to Aleari Reed.
Hi Aleari, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Well, I was born in Montgomery, AL and moved to Atlanta, GA when I was four years old. Dance has always been my first love. I could dance before I could talk. At age 11, I started watching and learning from dancers I saw on Youtube. The very first dance I learned was ‘Whip My Hair’ choreographed by Dejan Tubic and Janelle Ginestra. From then on, I knew I wanted to be a dancer and started to teach myself different routines every day.
I went on to attend Westlake High School and danced on their dance team, Mane Attraction, for two years. However, when I turned 16, I had an overwhelming feeling that there was more out there for me. I just didn’t know what that more was. Hearing from a friend, I found out about ATLA Dance Company and decided to audition. In January 2018, I joined ATLA, based in Atlanta, GA. There, I trained in hip-hop under the direction of a former dancer, choreographer, director, and movement coach, Kiki Ely. Throughout my time with ATLA, I received opportunities to work with/ learn from creatives such as Anthony Burrell, Jamaica Craft, Josh Smith, Karena Evans, and others. She also earned a few paid gigs such as a live performance with Layton Greene, Rolling Loud with Coca Vango, and dancing on hit show ‘P-Valley’ for 3 episodes.
At age 18, I went on to further my training at the American Musical and Dramatic Arts College and Conservatory. I trained in various styles of dance that enhanced my movement quality such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, broadway, hiphop, and improv. During my career at AMDA, I worked with choreographers such as Justin Conte, Dasha Teratova, Devin Solomon, and so many others. During the pandemic lockdown, Aleari joined a dance company called Motus created by Diana Matos. I graduated with my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance theater shortly after.
The thing I love most about dance is the therapy it provides for the world and self. My goal is to travel the world helping young adults cultivate the gift of dance.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Matthew 7:13-14
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
Life comes with obstacles and challenges for us to grow and blossom, so I would be telling a lie if I said everything has been “smooth”. Even though my story is has just begun, God has taught me a lot of lessons through what He has brought me through. Throughout my life and trying to figure out how I fit into the dance industry, I have always felt like I had to play catch up. When I started to train outside of my room, I was dancing next to people who have been taking dance classes for years. That alone had an effect on my confidence. In college, I pushed myself beyond measure. I dived into learning ballet, jazz, broadway, contemporary, and more for the first time in my life. Having the courage to push myself, matured me mentally, gave me a new level of confidence ,and helped me appreciate the gift God has given me. I started excelling and found myself being chosen for solos and to be in pieces of various styles that were once foreign to me.
If I didn’t push past the negative thoughts and negative words from others, then I wouldn’t be who I am today. I thank God everyday for reminding me that I can do all things through Him who strengthens me, despite all the times I wanted to quit and the one time I actually did. All in all, whatever you are going through, just keep going. It may be cliche to say and easier said than done, but trust me, God is with you.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I would describe myself as an artist. For now, I am known for dancing, but I have other talents that I have been given and can’t wait to share with the world. What sets me apart from others is my passion. I may not be the best or the most proficient in a thing, but I have the heart and that alone conquers all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alearireed.squarespace.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alearireed/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ-Xm7uPm9I-W1bQ9CWf4w
Image Credits
Wesley Klain @wes_klain
