Jared Kelly

I remember being inspired and mentored by all of Katrina’s coaching, especially for the Martin Luther King, Jr. tribute solo that I performed at age 13.

She was very open to all of my opinions and suggestions. She wanted to help me find myself in the solo, which I really appreciated at that moment. I really appreciated the process more because I was involved in it and not just being told what to do. Having another set of eyes is tough sometimes, but you usually come out with a better result.

THEARC, under Katrina’s leadership, taught me a lesson that I did not really learn until I left. I had to remain humble and see that I had a lot to work on. I learned to recognize in myself when that was happening. I carry that with me now as a professional dancer. Dance is a very mature artform. The brain has to be focused and analytical to understand it and do well. You have to start young for your body, but for your brain, you don’t really start getting it until you get older.

I remember that Katrina handled the students very well, discipline wise. She met the young children where they were, but was still an authority figure. It is not always easy finding that balance. She did this very well.