VYD is a dance company called Vermont Youth Dancers, and I've been dancing with them since 2010. It's a local company based out of Jericho, Vermont with kids of all ages.
I just recently had my last performance with VYD. I was expecting this to be really hard and sad but I'm actually just happy and appreciative.
There are so many things I'm thankful for.
I'm thankful for all the memories that I've made over these past 6 years. And there are so many.
In Nederland I became I pirate and danced with a mop tormenting Peter and his lost boys. However, we had a hard time "staying alive."
We broke through splatter painted walls and lit up the stage like "fireworks." I danced with joy in my light up shoe laces.
I returned to Neverland by creeping onto the stage with a knife in my mouth. Staying "young forever" was so easy in that moment.
I carried on with helping backstage while my friends told a story of love and sacrifice.
I said, "I'll be okay" when I found out how many quick changes I had in the land of Oz. A monkey, winky, tornado, lumberjack, you name it.
My bros were there for me when I messed up my narration. And I will never be able to live it down "unless they all kill each other."
In Agrabah, me and the crew hung out with prince Ali (Aladdin) and felt like "royalty." Crew 4 life.
I scarred some children with an evil character. My last role in VYD. But "I'm here to stay, even when I'm gone."
I started VYD reaching for the stars and through this journey I found them. I found my family. Now, I'm never giving them up.
VYD has forever changed my life. More than just shaping me as a dancer and actor. VYD has shaped me as a person and young adult. Teaching me leadership skills, respect, honesty, courage and that working hard pays off. Ive also learned to live in the moment.
There's nothing like the feeling of being on stage and performing with a group of people that you love. VYD is a family and in this family we dance.
We are all brought together by something we love to do and we all share this love in an amazing way.
All to think none of this could have happened without two special woman. Mia and Theresa.
Without you two. There would be no VYD. You both have selflessly spent so much of your lives putting together amazing shows year after year for us to perform. You've put together a company that has created bonds of friendships that will last a lifetime. And memories that I will never forget. All of these amazing things all because of you two. I am eternally grateful for you both and All you have done. Thank you for everything.
I also just want to thank all my VYD cast mates. You guys are my family. I love you all so much. Thank you for making me laugh and for growing up with me. Thank you for always being there.
Thursday's and Sunday's were my favorite days just cause I knew I was going to see you all. Sometimes 4 days felt like a long time away from you all.
I'm going to miss you guys so much... But once a VYDer always a VYDer.
