Raquel Beauchamp, American Liberty Ballet, New York | "There's no better feeling in the world"

gracepicturesuk
Oct 23
1 min read

I Dance Because is a blog series celebrating dancers from all walks of life. Dance is more than flexibility and tricks. It is expression, acceptance and authenticity. Dance is not (and should not) be elitist or reserved for a certain type of body type or life experience. Dance is for everyone. To dance is to breath.

Raquel Beauchamp, American Liberty Ballet, New York // @raqbeau

Man in a black suit performs a dance pose outside on a tiled pathway, with green hedges and building in the background.

"I DANCE BECAUSE there’s no better feeling in the world."

I started ballet at 3 years old, but didn’t actually like it. It took a few years to realise that dance was something I aspired to.

However, I initially took the “safe” route - the college thing, internship, full-time job. I never really gave myself the opportunity to chase my dreams, until I decided to pursue dance full-time at age 24. This was my biggest challenge – along with learning how to dance en-pointe, which I’d missed out on learning as a child. I’m so happy I finally gave myself a chance.

Dancers that inspire me include Marianela Núñez (@marianelanunezofficial), Isabella Boylston (@isabellaboylston) and Iana Salenko (@iana_salenko).

Living in New York is a constant source of inspiration too – the energy and the opportunities that this city has to offer. Dance has taught me self-discipline and determination. It’s also taught me that I’m stronger than I realise. Nothing is impossible as long as you have a passion for it.

My ultimate dance dream is to dance at The Met one day. And to become a Rockette (@therockettes), of course!