For almost 50 years the Dallas Black Theater Academy has been creating a path for success for students across North Texas. They're this week's KRLD DIfference Makers.
Katricia Eaglan was only 14 when she saw dancers from the Dallas Black Theater. It opened her eyes.
"It was my first time seeing the company. That was my first time seeing dancers that looked like me, skintones, body type, dancing to music that I would be interested in dancing to," Katricia said.
That's when she became interested in dancing and attending the Dallas Black Theater Academy. After graduating and joining the Dallas Black Theater professional touring company, Katricia is now the Director of the Dallas Black Theater Academy - which has been exposing the children of Dallas to all forms of dance since 1973.
"We train students from 2 years old to adult in ballet, modern, jazz, African, and tap. And for those students who are seriously interested in ballet, we do have a pointe program," Katricia said. "Kids need to see people who look like them doing wonderful, successful, amazing artistic things so having Dallas Black in the community creates accessibility."
With a 100% graduation rate, alumni from Dallas Black Theater Academy end up in some of the worlds most prestigious schools and stages.
Alumni are currently dancing in the Lion King, as well as, on professional stages around the world. Students have graduated from the Juilliard School, Princeton University, Howard University, Prairie View A&M, Grambling State and many more.
"One of our proudest achievements is producing the first Presidential Scholar in Dance in the nation," Katricia said.
We're proud to call the Dallas Black Theater Academy this week's KRLD Difference Maker.
The Dallas Black Theater Academy is celebrating 50 years with a huge celebration called the Big Dance. This year's theme will honor Latino Culture. For tickets and information visit their website.
If you know someone making a difference in the community, send us an email at differencemaker@krld.com.
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