Dance Student Spotlight: Brooklyn Forbes

My name is Brooklyn Forbes and I am 12 years old. I live in Cooper City, Florida and I dance at Dancers Gallery.

@brooklyn.avery.forbes

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

I started dance at the age of 5 (Astrid Audet Academy of Ballet) when I took ballet and tap. I auditioned for pre-company when I was 7 years old. I also was cast in my first production role in "The Nutcracker" as an angel. I continued as a company member at Astrid Audet Academy of Ballet until last year when I auditioned to be a part of CAST Company at Dancers Gallery. I was selected for Teen/Senior Company for 2022-2023. I also auditioned for my school's competitive dance team, The Somerset Academy Pantherettes, in Pembroke Pines, Florida. I am a member of the Junior Pantherettes for this season. It has taken a lot of work and dedication up until this point, but I am excited to be competing on two teams this year!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

Overall, I would say that it has taken A LOT of work, time management, balance, and dedication to get to where I am today. I have had to work on technique in order to be at a level to audition for two competitive teams.

What personal limitations if any did you go through in your young career?

The personal limitation that I feel I have faced would be self-doubt. I think a lot of times we don't believe we are capable or talented enough to fill certain roles. However, I think I have learned a lot about self-confidence and working towards a goal. You can have all the talent, but without hard work, you will not be successful.

Has anybody ever tried to limit you on what you could do? If so how did you fight it?

I think that sometimes you have to look within yourself to find what you are truly capable of. You can't always rely on others to push you. It is hard to feel seen at times, but if you can see within yourself, you can motivate yourself to be even better. You are in control of where you go and how far!

How do you conquer negative talk?

It is all about believing that you can be the best and that when you work hard you can do anything you set your mind to.

What is your favorite quote?

"Dance is an art, paint your dream and follow it." - Steven Thompson

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

My goal for this year is to be successful on both competitive teams (CAST Company & Somerset Academy Pantherettes). It takes a lot of balance, when it comes to training, rehearsals, and academics, but I know that I have the work ethic to get it done!