Dancing is not just about the movements of the body for Stacy-Ann Nelson, it is more about the emotions and the feeling of freedom that comes through when she performs by herself or in a group.

It is for this reason that OBSERVER ONLINE was surprised to learn that being a professional dancer was not the first choice for the St Catherine native. However this mode of self-expression has become such an integral part of her life that the now trained graduate of the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts wants to go beyond dancing for herself to opening a dance studio so she can help the less fortunate find their voice.

Here are seven questions with modern contemporary dancer Stacy-Ann Nelson:

1. Did you always know that you wanted to be a professional dancer?

No, actually. Even though I’ve always loved dancing, my dream job was to be in the military then become a military doctor but my mom didn’t like the idea of me being in the military even though I’ve been a cadet all throughout high school. So dance was my second choice of career.

2. How did you get into dancing?

My aunt attended a lot of parties back in the day and I used to watch her on a local cable channel in Old Harbour. I would just be in awe every time I saw her dancing. Whenever we’re together on the weekends she would play music and we would just dance in the yard. So when I got to high school, I was introduced to Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) dance festivals and I knew if not the army I wanted to attend Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts School of Dance.

3. What is your favorite genre to dance to?

My favourite genre of dance would be Bollywood and modern contemporary. Bollywood is not something that is commonly practiced here in Jamaica and modern contemporary gives me the opportunity to be flexible and creative.

4. As a professional, where have you performed before?

I have done performances at The Little Theater, National Stadium, Phillip Sherlock, India High Commission here in Jamaica, Couples Resort Negril, Hope Gardens, just to name a few. I am an independent dancer so a lot of my performances are at formal events, and functions. I am also a dancer with the Anjali Dance Company, owned by Gopa Ramani. The group specialises in Bollywood and Classical Indian dances.

5. Where next can we see you perform?

I will be performing with the Anjali Dance Company on the 26th of March at the Jamaica Pegasus for Jamaica Diaspora Day.

6. What does dance mean to you?

Dancing for me is a way of life. It is freedom, and it allows me to speak without fear. Whenever I dance – whether it’s for an audience or just me in my living room – it makes me happy and free. Dancing is not just to get paid but to leave a footprint of positive impact. It allows me to be diverse; it is not just movements but an art that takes dedication and passion. Like Martha Graham says, “Great dancers are not great because of their technique, they are great because of their passion”.

7. What does a future in dancing look like for you?

Having my own dance studio, giving back to my community. Dance gave me a voice and I want to use that voice to create opportunities and a safe space for young creatives in Old Harbour who would love the opportunity to dance but can’t afford to do so.