Each month, Inlet features a new member. This month, we want to introduce you to Katarina Akers. Katarina is originally from Indiana, but has now lived in Cleveland for less than a month training with Inlet’s Trainee & Apprentice Program. Here’s a little more about her:
I grew up dancing at Crawfordsville Academy of Dance, with Cindy Whittle and Stefanie Case Deaton as my teachers. I started dancing there when I was 3, so everyone at CAD is basically family to me. I started with tap, then added ballet, then jazz, and then modern. I couldn’t get enough of dance so I just kept adding classes until there weren’t any left for me to take! After I graduated high school I went to Grand Valley State University and majored in Dance. I loved my time and everyone at GVSU. I think it was where I really was able to decide who I was as a dancer and artist. My teachers and peers were always so supportive and I have a lot to thank them for. My first year after college I lived in Houston, TX and danced with Ad Deum II, Ad Deum’s second company, where I made a lot of amazing connections within the dance world. And well, now I’m here!
I heard about Inlet during my time with Ad Deum II. Inlet is invited to teach at Ad Deum’s summer intensive every year and it was there that I finally met Bill Wade and a few of the senior company members. My roommate and I basically followed them around for the entire week like a bunch of groupies and we took every single class they taught. After taking their classes and listening to Bill discuss what Inlet was about I knew I wanted to work with Inlet more than just a couple classes. So, I guess, that was the week that I decided Inlet was the place for me.
Some fun facts:
My biggest dream would be to have my own dance company one day. I love creating and working with others to make something bigger than myself.
I have a lot of hobbies! When I want quiet time I like to read, draw, and paint. Or watch an entire season of my favorite show in one sitting. It really just depends on the day. But I’m also just as content to go to a coffee shop or amusement park with friends. Ya know, spice things up a bit.
Stay tuned to meet more new members, like Katarina, that are with Inlet Dance Theatre.
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