Getting to Know Allison: A Whimsical Journey of Artistic Growth
Hello, my wonderful friends and fellow artists!
I'm beyond thrilled to have this chance to connect with all of you and dive into the enchanting world of performing arts. If we've crossed paths before, you might recognize me as the teacher and performer who adores mermaids, blasts ABBA tunes in every dance class, has a year-round enthusiasm for Halloween, and draws fashion inspiration from Ms. Frizzle’s fabulous wardrobe. When I'm fully immersed in the realm of artistic expression, that's when I feel most alive and truly like myself.
Art has the incredible power to uplift our spirits and help us navigate the complexities of life. From light-hearted and playful musicals to deep and thought-provoking plays, art touches our hearts, gives us space to process our pain and grief, and invites us to look within ourselves. Every part of who we are, the highs and lows, is a beautiful and essential aspect of our being. All the facets of our human experiences can find a home in the arts.
Let's embark on this journey together, where I'll share more about my personal artistic evolution and the profound role vulnerability has played in it.
Embracing the Unknown:
For as long as I can remember, the performing arts have been my creative outlet, offering solace, guidance, and countless opportunities for exploration. With over two decades of experience in acting, ballet, and jazz, I've come to realize that true growth lies outside our comfort zones. As an artist, and particularly as an educator, it's my responsibility to embrace new challenges and continuously expand my horizons. Not only does this enhance my artistic expertise, but it also sets an inspiring example for my students, nurturing their curiosity and fearlessness.
Finding My Voice:
Let's talk about singing—a form of artistic expression that for most of my life simultaneously excited and terrified me. During my educational journey, I often felt confined by the label of being "just" a dancer. The thought of singing in front of an audience filled me with panic, but in the comfort of my own home I would joyfully sing along to my favorite songs. My course changed when I met Susan Davies, an extraordinary friend and colleague who is a talented and inspiring vocal teacher. Fueled by the desire to explore my unique vocal abilities, I took a leap of faith and signed up for private voice lessons with Susan's studio. Even after my first lesson it was clear how transformative the experience could be for me!
Over the past two years under Susan's guidance, I've grown to love my distinctive voice and its incredible power for self-expression. From belting out Broadway hits to putting my own spin on songs by some of my favorite artists like Florence and the Machine and Fleetwood Mac, I've found joy and curiosity in the process of refining my skills. This year, sharing my talents with an audience in not one, but two voice recitals, was a huge accomplishment for me!
Collaboration and Shared Vulnerability:
In this exploration of my artistic growth, I want to shine a spotlight on how Susan became not just my teacher but also a collaborating artist. This year, Susan decided to practice what she preached as a teacher by embarking on her own adventure—guitar lessons! It was a dream she’d had for years but never had the time or courage to pursue. Inspired by our collaboration in my lessons, she shared that she wanted to learn "Closer to Fine" by the Indigo Girls on the guitar so that we could perform it together, and I wholeheartedly supported the idea.
Together, with Susan on guitar and me on the tambourine (also a first for me!), we delved into singing harmonies. Over the weeks of rehearsals we felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty, unsure if we would be ready in time for the recital. But as we embraced vulnerability and leaned into collaboration, the pieces started falling into place. Our performance was magical, and the audience absolutely loved it!
Sharing the stage with Susan was an absolute honor and privilege. Through her vulnerability and bravery, she exemplified the true essence of an artist. We even received a heartfelt compliment from an audience member who said that our song was a cohesive medley of four instruments: guitar, tambourine, and our two unique voices. It’s so powerful that as singers we get to simultaneously be the instrument and the artist, and even more special when you combine that with the collaboration of two friends.
Tapping into the Rhythms of Joy:
In recent years, tap dance has become another source of creative passion in my life. Combining the skills of both dance and music, the liberating experience of tap is unlike any other artform. Although I had some experience with tap in my early childhood dance classes, it wasn't until adulthood that I rediscovered its sheer joy. The satisfaction of creating sound, stomping my feet, and claiming the space around me is an excellent release of stress. Unlike ballet, the artform in which I am most experienced, tap brings out the freedom and individuality within me.
During the times I've had the privilege of teaching tap to aspiring dancers, I've come to realize just how much knowledge resides within me. The process has in turn become a source of inspiration for further growth on my own artistic path. I was thrilled recently when one of my favorite students asked me for private tap lessons, not only because I’d get to spend time with a delightful student, but also because I knew it would get me back into the swing of dancing and building on my own tap skills. In our lessons we tap along to ABBA music (of course), laugh together, try our best, fail with gusto, and celebrate our wins, all while having immeasurable fun.
When you’re not afraid to look silly, dancing is infinitely more enjoyable and rewarding.
The Beauty of Imperfection:
I’d now like to share with you a secret that has been vital in my own path of self-discovery. Behind the mask of confidence and unwavering composure, even the best of us grapple with self-consciousness and moments of doubt. But here's the truth: it is in those vulnerable moments that our greatest strength can be found. Growth demands taking risks, fearlessly diving into failure, and sharing our art even before we feel fully prepared. It is in these leaps of faith that we uncover the beauty within us.
I hope that my artistic journey has ignited a spark within you, inspiring you to embark on your own path of creative exploration and personal growth. If you feel called to work with me and the community of Allison MacLaury Performing Arts, I’d be honored to guide you. You can find the latest news about what programs we are offering here (LINK), and we have plenty more exciting plans for the future!
Let's come together, create, learn, and evolve, for the world eagerly awaits the distinctive magic that only you can bring forth. Cast aside your doubts, dance to the rhythm of your own tambourine, and unlock the artist within. Remember, you are more extraordinary than you could ever imagine!
Sending you boundless love and creativity,
Allison
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Hi, I’m Allison!
Founder and Artistic Director of Allison MacLaury Performing Arts.
My dream is to create a community of empowered artists who can express themselves through the magnificent medium of the arts.
My blog is home to all manner of things involving the arts, our fabulous community of performers, our programs and my excitement about the journeys our stars are taking towards their bright futures!