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FEATURED DANCER: Gabriel Rocha

“WHAT DANCE MEANS TO ME”   Before the age of 11 dance was a foreign concept to me. I had tried getting into different hobbies and sports, however, I never felt like myself and would end up quitting.  I discovered dance through a friend, thinking at that time that it would be a fun new activity to try out. When I found dance I did not know one step or any terminology. I watched the advanced dancers in class and was drawn in by the beauty and complexity of movement.  After taking several privates and classes, I soon began to realize that dance was an art form that I wanted to continue training in and pursue in the future. Dance was something that I truly began to love, however, there were some discouraging social stigmas. Being a male dancer, I did experience some prejudices due to the fact that dance was seen to be “for girls”.  For a while I was embarrassed, but dance made me feel so welcomed and comfortable that I overcame those thoughts. There was this sensation of pure joy that came with dance, unlike any other activity that I tried. What I like about dance is the demand and challenges that are needed. Dance has helped me find pleasure in pushing my limits. It has helped me grow as a human being by teaching me patience, discipline, vulnerability, individuality, and how to work with others.  I am in love with the process and growing experience that will always continue throughout my dance journey.

“WHAT EXTENSIONS MEANS TO ME”  Extensions is the first studio that I started training at. I did not know anything about dance or the community at extensions. I instantly felt welcomed by Lauren, Lizzie, and all of the members of Extensions. It is a great feeling when you feel the love and positive energy that radiates throughout the building. Extensions is a safe space that is always encouraging and allows dancers to grow and learn from each other. I always feel like I am allowed to be myself and show my true creativity without being judged. This has helped me come out of my shell and develop as a person. I am thankful for the equal opportunities that extensions offers to all dancers in order to make sure that we are all set up for success, as well as the wonderful family/bonds that have been created. I have spent 6 years at extensions with a heart full of gratitude to have such a wonderful place I can also call home.

“WHAT I ASPIRE TO DO AFTER I GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL”  After high school I would like to attend a 4 year college that offers a BFA in dance. After college I want to audition for different companies around the country/world, meanwhile teaching at different studios. My dream is to dance while travelling Europe. My ultimate goal is to be able to open up my own studio in order to pass on the information and valuable lessons which I continue to gain and discover.

See Gabriel’s Artist Profile here!

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Welcome back, dancers! We are thrilled to begin t Welcome back, dancers!  We are thrilled to begin the 2020-21 season with you, back on the marley! 📸 @cherylmannphoto
Registration for fall classes will open this Satur Registration for fall classes will open this Saturday, August 1.  Class sizes will remain very limited through our fall session, with all of the current sanitary and social distancing protocol in place.  This faculty and class line up is our best yet... we can’t wait to see you on the marley!  #chicagodancers #chicagodance #balletdancer #dancersofinstagram. @henrywstegemann @__kendallscott
Classes start tomorrow at Extensions Dance Center! Classes start tomorrow at Extensions Dance Center!  Many of our classes are waitlisted due to low capacity, but we still have space in some too.  Join us for 4 weeks of socially distanced, in studio, good vibes only, super groovy...dancing.  We will see you on the marley!!! #chicagodancers #chicagodance #summerdance #onthemarley
Come take class with us on Zoom and support our fa Come take class with us on Zoom and support our faculty!  This 2 week donation based class series will directly support our faculty and help them during trying financial times.... $10 suggested donation/class, and ALL are welcome.  Share with friends and family who dance far and wide!  Hugs to all, and we can’t wait to get back in the studio in July! 🙏🏻🙏🏻. DM for links if you want to join us.  See you next week in class!!!!
#chicagodance #chicagodancers #youngdancers #youngdancerstalent #dancelifestyle #dancelove
The first ever ENGAGE WORKSHOP SERIES with Lizzie The first ever ENGAGE WORKSHOP SERIES with Lizzie MacKenzie, Jackie Nowicki & Hanna Brictson will be held at Extensions Dance Center beginning July 6th!! 🌟🌟Registration link for all Junior & Pre-Professional ENGAGE workshop series opens tomorrow morning at 10am... Pre-Professional sessions are 9AM-2PM & 10AM-3PM, Junior sessions are 3PM-7PM & 3:30PM-7:30PM. 
Registration opens 10AM tomorrow: Link in bio 🔼
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Workshops are limited to 9 dancers each... don’t miss it!  Register at 10:00 AM on Friday June 12th!! All workshops will be held at Extensions Dance Center 3933 N. Elston Avenue in Chicago.  Series begins Monday July 6. ⭐️⭐️All CDC guidelines for social distancing and sanitary measures will be followed.  We take the health and safety of our dancers and their families very seriously.

#chicagodance #chicagoart #chicago #summerworkshop #danceworkshop #dancersofinstagram #instadance #dance #dancer #artists #prepro #dancerlife #create #mentor #teachersofinstagram #worldwidedance #contemporarydance #girlboss #mindfulness #improvisation #movement #connect #communicate #inspire #engage #engagechicago #dancersofig #thepowerofthree #strongwomen
Instagram post 17941341622364053 Instagram post 17941341622364053
There is nothing we love more than when our young There is nothing we love more than when our young artists put their creativity and unique perspective out there for the world to see.  Because she was “bored” at home in her house, longtime Extensionite @nicole_noe05 put this little vid together and we can’t stop watching it!!!! You’ve got some skills, girlfriend!!! 💜💜.
The cats out of the bag! @gabrielrochaj has comm The cats out of the bag!  @gabrielrochaj  has committed to the University of Arizona BFA program with a substantial merit scholarship and an academic scholarship to boot.  We are beyond thrilled for him, as we know he will grow immensely and be loved and appreciated in this top top notch, and very selective dance program.  We are incredibly proud of you, Gabe!! @uarizonaarts @uarizona
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Extensions Dance Center
Lizzie@extensionsdance.com
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