WORDS: Sheri Roca
PHOTOS: Wendy Dewhurst
ReImagine Dance is a local, nonprofit organization offering dance classes, at no charge, to young people between the ages of 5 and 25 with any disability. Constructed through the love and imagination of two sisters who both have children with disabilities as a way to involve their kids in a creative outlet where they can socialize and express themselves in healthy ways.
Sisters Shannon Johnson and Melanie Simmons both had “miracle babies” and had been told, at one time, that their children may not make it. Initially, this is what inspired both mothers to pursue medical careers. Shannon is now a Nurse Practitioner (NP), and Melanie is a Registered Nurse (RN). But their true passions and the needs of their children are what finally fueled the idea for ReImagine Dance. Shannon has always loved to dance and was a dancer in high school and college, while Melanie thrives in business, so ReImagine Dance was a natural partnership for the sisters and an ingenious way to help both of their children.
Shannon’s daughter, Madison, or Mattie, and Melanie’s son, Bryce, had difficulties finding any activity where they would feel included and their differences would not stand out. Mattie is resigned to a wheelchair with very limited mobility, and although she was often dragged along to her siblings’ sports and other extracurricular activities, she did not have any social activities of her own. Although many organizations offered to find ways to include her, with her mobility limitations, Shannon could not find a local organization that was the right fit for her. Melanie’s son, Bryce, was born with cardiac complications, which made it problematic for him to play sports and engage in other physical activities, so he also had difficulties finding his niche.
It was evident early on that both kids loved music, and Shannon knew, from her experience as a dancer, that dance could be the perfect creative outlet for them. According to Shannon, “Dance gives the individual the ability to interpret the music and express themselves through dance however they see fit.” And so, armed with nothing but the dream of helping their children and their backgrounds in business and dance, the dream became a reality, and ReImagine Dance was born.
Established in August 2020, it was a test year, with only three dancers. But it all came together without a hitch and became a nonprofit organization in 2021. Currently, seven students dance together once a week: Leah and Sofia, age 10; Truman, 12; Alexa, 19; Addison, 17; Mackencie, 21; and Madison, 23.
“These kids are just amazing!” Shannon exclaimed. “They have so many obstacles, but they do everything with a smile on their face. They love unconditionally, forgive, and forget no matter what, and always cheer each other on.”
Because it was important to the sisters to keep the classes free for all who would like to participate, Shannon and Melanie needed to find a host studio that could offer the program an hour or two a week of studio time at no charge, obtain donations for costumes and supplies, and they were going to need volunteers. “Finances can be a disability, too,” explains Shannon. “These kids have enough to overcome; how to pay for dance lessons shouldn’t be one.”
Art and Soul Dance Company in Lakewood Ranch has graciously donated the necessary studio time. “We absolutely could not do this without them,” offers Shannon. And through Art and Soul, the dancers have also had the opportunity to participate in multiple performances at recitals, Boo Fest, and the Christmas Parade. “One of our dancers made a heart shape with her hands during the parade and was so excited to see her picture in the paper!” recalls Shannon.
The donations come from fundraisers, local businesses, silent auctions, and social media. Clancy’s Irish Pub and Grill recently hosted a Chili Cook-Off, and all proceeds went to ReImagine Dance. “We are hoping to do more events like this in the future,” said Shannon. “But it’s definitely been a learning curve,” she explains. “Now we are trying to learn more about grants and other financial opportunities but have not had much luck with that aspect of fundraising so far, but we keep learning as we go.”
Each participating dancer is paired with a volunteer or peer to help them learn the various motions, help with socialization, and assist them in whatever capacity they require. “Without our volunteers, it wouldn’t be possible to do so much of what we do,” explains Shannon. “They are invaluable to us.” Most of the volunteers are high school teens, gathering volunteer hours, and Shannon’s other children also volunteer. “Some of the volunteers have been with us since we started,” Shannon noted, “friendships have been formed, and valuable life lessons are being learned, as well as patience and compassion.”
Mackencie Carrel, a dancer in her third year at ReImagine Dance, really looks up to her peer and often talks to her about things that happen at school or at home, considering her a very positive person in her life, according to her mother, Kathy. “I cannot stress enough how much ReImagine Dance has helped her. She has a lot of challenges and it’s hard for her to meet people, so she had a difficult time adjusting to the move to Florida, and this class has been so good for her,” she recalls. “And I definitely think her confidence has grown. She gets to be herself in a safe and stable environment while learning something fun. And, because Shannon and Mel are so good with them, I can relax and not worry while she is there,” she continues. “I even get to socialize and have kind of a community of my own.”
Jennifer Lindsey’s daughter, Leah, also in her third year at ReImagine Dance, loves learning new dance moves and being with wonderful friends. “Everyone (at ReImagine) is very loving and caring,” commends Jennifer. “From the dancers to the helpers, they are wide open with hugs, love, and no judgment. She can be herself and make silly mistakes without being judged.” she continues. “Shannon and Mel are wonderful people who also open their hearts to love each child and treat them as equals. They all know each other well and have a great time being themselves. It is a safe place for everyone to just be you!”
“Seeing the kids from the beginning of the year and then towards the end has really brought them out of their shells,” Shannon proclaimed. “We have students that start the year without making eye contact or talking to anyone, and by the end of the year, they are excited to come to class, singing along with the songs, inviting each other to their birthday parties, making lasting friendships with others, and all in a safe environment where they can just be themselves.”
And, of course, all the classes lead up to the big stage performance at the annual recital. “Getting on the stage for the first time, everyone was a little nervous,” Shannon admits. “No one knew how the audience would react to our unique dance class. In the end, there were a lot of tears, and many stood to applaud them,” she remembers. “Our students were so excited and now look forward to dancing at any event. We stand on the sidelines in tears ourselves and are so proud of them.”
Mattie has been known to watch their recital video over and over. They usually choose inspirational music for the recitals, such as “This Is Me,” a song declaring that it is okay to be different, or “Rise Up,” a tribute to caregivers, and the dancers threw roses to the audience as a thank you.
“Leah absolutely loves being on stage and performing,” recalls Jennifer. “She was not nervous at all, but again, all the dancers have built a strong relationship and know they have each other next to them.” She continues, “Seeing her perform has brought tears to my eyes a few times over the last few years. I very much enjoy watching them all perform.”
Shannon’s big dream is to be accepted to perform in the Macy’s Day parade. She has been trying to apply and, if accepted, would love to collaborate with similar organizations and invite all disabled dancers to participate.
ReImagine Dance is currently involved in a research study to prove how the creative arts are beneficial to those with special needs, hoping the project will open more doors for similar programs. NG
Learn more about ReImagine Dance, visit reimaginedance.org
Their mission statement:
Reimagine Dance, where we believe that every individual, regardless of ability, deserves the joy of dance. At our heart, we’re a community fostering inclusivity and empowerment through expressive movement. Join us as we create a space where children and young adults with disabilities discover the beauty of dance, celebrating their unique abilities and redefining what’s possible. Together, we reimagine dance as a transformative and inclusive experience for all.
