Dance Student Spotlight: Hailey Dolan

My name is Hailey Dolan, and I am currently 14 years old. I live in Doylestown, PA and I dance at Dance Arts Collaborative.

@Hailey_dancer5678

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

When I was a toddler, I tried soccer, t-ball, basketball, and gymnastics at my local YMCA. Although these activities were fun, I didn’t love them and was more than happy to give them up when my six-week session was up. Then my mom enrolled me in a 6-week dance class that included a performance at the end. I finally found my passion and wanted to take dance classes at an actual studio. I’ve been dancing at my current studio since I was 4 years old. Each year I add new classes to my schedule. When I was 8 years old, I was invited to audition for my studio’s dance competition team. At the age of 9, I started doing some additional training outside my studio through summer or winter intensives. I also started modeling for costume/Dancewear companies at the age of 9. I have also had opportunities to audition for performances like The Nutcracker at a local theater. I have been performing in The Nutcracker every other year until COVID happened. Fingers crossed for next 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?

I have been very fortunate in that I have not had to deal with any significant injuries. I am also very lucky to be attending a dance school that provides excellent training with small classes that allow for a lot of individual attention. My parents are also very supportive, and my mom can travel with me and take me for training, modeling and auditions. So I think I would have to say that things are pretty easy for me compared to what other dancers have had to deal with.

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

I don’t know that I would call this a limitation, but I would say one of the most challenging things for me is balance. There are only so many hours in a day, and sometimes it is hard to balance my dance classes, rehearsal schedule, and school work along with my personal life with my friends and family. I need to stay on top of my schedule to stay ahead. I tend to put pressure on myself to excel in all areas.

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

Nobody has really done that to me. I probably do it more to myself by taking on too much at times. When that happens, my parents or the studio owner work with me to focus on what’s most important at that time.

How do you conquer negative talk?

I try my best to ignore it. I can’t help but feel like dance is extremely competitive, and somebody will always have something to say. I very quickly grew thick skin as a result of my dance experience, and I try to surround myself with positive people.

What is your favorite quote?

"I never lose. I either win or I learn." - Nelson Mandela

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

Right now, I am in the process of planning my summer. I am researching summer dance intensives and getting ready to attend both virtual and live auditions. I’m trying to plan around my studio’s summer intensive, dance nationals, and hopefully, Nutcracker rehearsals.