22/07/2026
Dancer's Notebook…
The best dancers aren't always the fastest learners. They're the ones who keep showing up.
After years of teaching, I've learned that talent is only part of the story. Some students seem to master a step instantly, while others work for weeks or months before it clicks. In the end, it is often the student who keeps coming back - with patience, determination, and curiosity - who becomes the stronger dancer.
Progress in ballet is rarely dramatic. It is built class by class, correction by correction, and one small breakthrough at a time.
Never underestimate the power of simply showing up.
Until next time...keep dancing.
Merrilee Hodgins, Artistic Director
The Dancer's Notebook is a weekly reflection from Merrilee Hodgins, Artistic Director of The School of Dance, sharing five decades of experience in dance education, movement, and lifelong learning.
📷Simmy Ahluwalia
We gratefully acknowledge the support of:
Ontario Government
Ontario Arts Council - Conseil des arts de l'Ontario
City of Ottawa
