Simple…
Tiny little voices echo giggles and songs up and down the halls…
Bare feet, skipping by, create blurs of pink leotards & tutus,
Mini buns atop many heads,
Big dreams and little legs…
Two new-found friends, in total excitement, twirl together until time to tiptoe to their tasks…
Parents sit by in loving approval of their little one’s form and uniform, surely heart-warmed at the thought of a dancer newly-born.
These are just some of the inspiring aesthetics that color my afternoons at Youngstown. There are many things and people by which to be inspired here. I chose the little dancers of Flourish Dance Project (just one group of students this collective of accomplished instructors teaches), because I’m touched by their simple happiness. While I’m working away in the main office, the doors stand wide open, welcoming in the life that’s happening all around the center. Visitors and clients enter the office with smiles, commenting on the goings on, and expressing how nice it is here. When I’m in the hallways, I get to make friends with the kids, and tell them ‘good job’ as they show off their new moves, and sometimes I eavesdrop on their story times on the stairwell before their classes. It’s simple happiness in a world that’s not so simple.
Whatever your muse, it’s probably here at Youngstown. And if you don’t find it, you can bring it, because it’s a warm place that woos your artistic senses by whatever means necessary! In my short time of being part of this community, I’ve met people who so love this atmosphere that they offer to volunteer their time before they even know what to volunteer for! What I’m saying is – there’s constant inspiration going on here, and it’s awesome.
Whether you’ve never been here, or you haven’t been in a long time or you’re here a lot, Welcome! And keep coming back! Avail yourself to the simple beauty that flows at Youngstown, and let the magic take its course.
‘See you soon,
Erika B.