Faculty Spotlight: Milissa Payne Bradley
As we continue to celebrate BBT's 40th Anniversary, we are delighted to share thoughts and memories from the generations of BBT faculty members, current and past.
Is there a faculty member you'd especially like to hear from? Submit your faculty questions and requests to info@berkeleyballet.org.
When did you first come to BBT? What drew you to work for the organization?
I started teaching for BBT in 2018, and I was immediately drawn to the organization's inclusivity. When I first walked into the building, I noticed handwritten messages by students hanging from the ceiling with sparkling ribbons. The students had written messages about how they see dance, feel about dance, and why they choose to move and express themselves through dance. Reading their special words about how dance has touched them encompassed everything that BBT provides for its students. A place where every dancer can learn the universal language of dance but also express it in their own unique and special way; and that’s why I knew that I wanted to work for BBT.
During your time here, what roles have you held?
I have had the opportunity to teach the pre-ballet and level 1-2 in the youth division, and it’s been a true pleasure working with all of these students. I’m particularly enjoying teaching for this session of the outdoor class offerings. From handstands to grand battements and drawing circles in the sand on the baseball diamond as we ronde de jambe, the students and me are really having fun in the sun every Saturday!
How do you approach your teaching and in-studio work?
My goal as a dance educator is to help all my students develop a stronger passion for the arts through the artistic practice of dance. In my approach to teaching ballet, I emphasize building strong, healthy dancing bodies, minds, and hearts. I believe in training that emphasizes awareness, presence, commitment, and empowerment. To be a dance educator is to be a guide on the path of becoming. I embrace teaching with profound honor and appreciation; being a dance instructor is a beautiful and boundless gift.
In what way do you think BBT is different (or similar) from other organizations?
I love the ways BBT communicates and connects with its community and audiences. Through film, live engagements, community outreach, and specialized classes, BBT does an exceptional job of connecting dance to a broad community as much as it develops and nurtures dancers through quality training.
Can you share a favorite memory? Or a moment when you celebrated with the BBT community?
Anytime that I get to witness a parent/guardian watching their child dance! As a parent, I know how special it is to see your child excel and have fun. Watching parents experience the joy that their child feels while dancing is always a remarkable and extra special moment.
Photo by Sean McArdle
Photo by Marty Sohl
With my daughter Sybelle