T o some, dance is defined as a series of movements that match the rhythm of a song. To others, dance is a type of art, a discipline, and a form of expression that allows them to communicate emotions words alone cannot describe. At Alice Cooper’s The Rock, dance classes are a vital part of the facility’s arts and entertainment programs. Since 2012, The Rock’s dance program has impacted the lives of thousands of young dancers who have waltzed through its doors. The teens show up for the dance lessons but stay for the fulfilling friendships, motivating mentoring, and authentic atmosphere.
At six years old, shortly after joining a YWCA dance program, Sheryl was ready to quit. Realizing she was the only girl in her class that couldn’t do the splits, she expressed her disappointment to her mom, who, determined not to let her daughter give up so easily, encouraged her to try again… and again… and again. By the end of that week, Sheryl could do the splits. That spark lit a fire in Sheryl. One that would eventually lead the talented dancer to the Pasadena Dance Theatre in California, home to some of the most promising dancers in the country.
A decade after opening its doors, Sheryl Cooper and Hodgie Jo, the dynamic dance duo behind The Rock’s dance program, share their story of connection, perseverance, and patience required to shape the program into the celebrated community asset it is today. Raising the Barre It’s hard to imagine that Sheryl Cooper, now a professional dancer and choreographer, didn’t consider herself athletic growing up. “My mom and dad had to force me to play outside because I was of studious nature. I loved to read. I loved to play with stuffed animals. I loved puzzles. I loved indoor games.”
Dancers like Sheryl, who out of 2,000 hopefuls, was selected
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The Rock Magazine
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