Meet Kristyn Pope!
Fun Facts about Kristyn!
What is your favorite style of dance?
-My favorite dance style changes day to day and depending on whether I'm observing or dancing. The beauty of art is that it can reach different people at different times and resonate in different ways.
What is your go to meal before teaching a class?
-I don't have a "go to" meal before teaching. I basically eat whatever I am craving most amongst what I have available.
What’s your favorite movie?
-I promise I'm not avoiding these answers, but I have to answer this question in a similar way that I answered the question about my favorite dance style. My favorite movie changes, depending on my mood, my circumstances and other factors. Also, the beauty of movies is that as new ones are created, I have an opportunity to discover a new favorite, that resonates in some unique way.
Who is your hero?
-Wow! I have so many heroes. Honestly, my "hero" is anyone who lives, tries their best at any given time (even if it's not THE best), has flaws, makes mistakes, tries to learn from their mistakes, faces challenges, etc. As the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes. Also, not all heroes will ever have their work noticed or recognized. Heroes come in all shapes, sizes and forms.
In conclusion to all of these questions, I'm owning my "I don't know." I have so much to learn and discover.
I have been taking Kristyn's ballet barre class on and off since I started quarantining in March! Her positive energy, made even ME, look forward to taking a ballet class on my own accord! Kristyn's dedication to her craft and her students never seems to waver despite the many injustices that were happening against POC around our country. I asked Kristyn what her experience as a black woman in the performance industry has been like and how she's navigated being an artist/ teaching artist during the age of Covid-19. Her response perfectly exemplifies why she is such a wonderful teacher. She is honest, accountable, thought provoking and kind.
“At this time, I'm still uncovering, unpacking and processing my experience as a performer of color, as a person of color in our country. I'm still learning and I'm still hoping to grow. I have a lot of work to do. I think we all do.
I think I've navigated COVID-19 as a performer/teacher by truly recognizing that I am actually unable to "navigate" it. I'm not in the driver's seat. This thing is bigger than me. As of right now, I've not sought out performance opportunities. It hasn't been tangible for me. I've not mapped out a future beyond this time. It's been both scary and liberating. I'm also really seeing that things change. People change. Our circumstances change. Life is about change. I'm learning how to balance control and surrender. As I mentioned before, I have a lot of work to do. As for teaching, I felt called to teach virtually during this time and share something that has brought me joy. It's been inspiring to connect with others to see journeys both similar to and different from my own. I learn something each time I teach and create. Motivated Movers NYC has been my main virtual teaching home since the beginning of the pandemic. They've been wonderful at trying to meet the community where they are in different areas, from financial to training, and have been seeking ways to learn and grow throughout this time. I have no idea what the future holds and where my path might lead in the world of performance, teaching and beyond. It's kind of exciting!"
