Bailey Kolaras

What companies/classes are you currently in?

I am in the Sr. CATS and ELITE CATS Companies and take classes based on the respective company criteria. 

When did you start at Center Stage?

I started Centerstage in September of 2014 at age 11. 

You jumped into Center Stage companies fairly late in the game.  How was that?  Was there an adjustment period, or did you feel like you fit right in?

There was definitely an adjustment period when I started Center Stage because my technique was not quite up to par. After I worked hard and saw progress, I started to feel more comfortable and began to fit in my classes better. However, on the personal side, I easily connected with the other girls and have made genuine friendships. 

What was your Center Stage journey?

I joined Center Stage in the Junior CAT 2 Company. I still remember the day I auditioned with George. I arrived with 3 other friends from another dance school and I was ready to make a change. I’m glad that I came. After my first year as a Jr. CAT 2, I auditioned and was accepted into Mickey’s CATS Company - I so love working with her! To make this change after one year of arriving at Center Stage, I knew I had my work cut out for me. Becoming a Sr. CAT Apprentice 1 at the age of 12, made me proud. From my first day to now, I work really hard and was able to earn a place as an ELITE Sr. CAT. I will always be thankful to all my dance teachers, Stephen too, because without their guidance and expectations, I would not be the dancer that I am today. 

Do you remember your first dance routine?

My first dance routine was Wepa choreographed by Marlowe Scott. 

Why has it been worth all of the energy you’ve put into it and the sacrifices you’ve made?

Yes, training at Center Stage, I had to make many sacrifices in my everyday life, but it was all worth it in the end. As far back as I can remember, I have dedicated every Saturday to my dance training at CS, along with other week days. What I know for sure is that I would not be the dancer nor the accomplished person that I am today without my Center Stage family. I am confident in my dance technique, performance delivery and overall readiness for the dance world, and the world at large.

Do you do other outside of school activities?

Yes, I competed in Track and Field as a 200 & 400m Hurdler, a 400m & 800m runner and long jumper, where I became an All American and a 2x Junior Olympician. I also joined a Cheer, Step and Dance team at my school. 

What’s your favorite movie and why?

The Devil Wears Prada is my favorite movie because I love fashion and this movie teaches a great lesson about sticking up for yourself and following your own path. 

What’s your happy place?

My happy place is the dance studio because no matter my mood, dance always finds a way to make me happy. 

If you were appointed Queen of the world, what would be your first act?

If I were appointed Queen of the World, my first act would be to end the CoronaVirus immediately and mandate equality for all.  

If you were given unlimited funds to travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would travel to Hawaii because it's such a beautiful island and I have always wanted to visit.  

If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

I would be an elephant because they are sweet and caring, but also fierce when needed. 

Who are your heroes and why?

Micheal Jackson is my hero because he had so many ups and downs in his life, but he never let that impact his performances and career. I believe he is a true legend. 

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?

I would love to have dinner with Rosa Parks because she is such an inspiration and a heroic change agent.
What’s next?

I will be continuing my education at Spelman College, in Atlanta, majoring in Dance, Performance & Choreography and minoring in Psychology. My goal is to one day perform around the world and later combine my love for dance with physical therapy and start my own company as a Dance Physical Therapist. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself traveling around the world choreographing and teaching dance. 

Will you come back to visit Center Stage, or are you gone for good when you’re out the door?

Yes of course! I will always come back to visit my Center Stage family because as Mickey says, we will forever be connected.