I am LaWanda Raines and I work in Richmond, VA with the Latin Ballet of Virginia. I am employed as an Associate Artistic Director, performer, and teaching artist in addition to costuming duties. I also provide dance instruction for three different studios and coach a dance team. I am a happy mother of two teenagers and wife. I am currently a Low Residency student in the Saint Mary's College of CA MFA Program. Attached here is a base schedule for September to December 2014. 

 

During a production week the whole thing is re-arranged after 9 am. I have to sub out my evening dance classes for the week to attend the theater rehearsals. This week, for the first time ever in 10 years, I was unable to find a sub so I missed the evening rehearsals. The upside – we rehearse the full show in the mornings as well.

 

Show week includes a children's show called Amy's Travels at 10:30-11:30am with a meet and greet afterwards, then dress rehearsal in the evenings. Thursday we have a morning school show and a special gala performance that evening of a completely different lineup. Then, one show Friday, two Saturday, one Sunday, and then strike. The show closes at 6pm on Sunday. 

 

Like life – the schedule is subject to change!

Happy to dance through it all!

 

What I love about my weekly schedule is that it allows me to work with people of all ages and skill levels. There is also the excitement of a performance in a new theater or community. I also like that my schedule includes family time. That way when new things are added I can make sure I keep that time, even if sometimes I have to shift it within the schedule.

What I wish was different, I most recently changed.  Having started an MFA in Dance, I found need of more “me time” to create and do work for my independent study. 

I find I thrive when my schedule is busy but also has time for me to recuperate. Having two children, my choices are driven by schedule, availability of work and income. I have always found ways to do at least one class or one performance simply because I want to and not because of income. This has included volunteer performances for my children's schools, charity performances and classes with the dance company, local community projects, and performances with independent artists.

I strive to live a full and complete life that nurtures the art in everyday living. Even the art of conversation. Happy dancing!