Today we’d like to introduce you to Camille Thompson
Hi Camille, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My passion for dance was cultivated at the tender age of two years old. My mother must have seen an early spark in me and enrolled me in the first class she could find for my age group. As I grew up and my personality became more apparent, It became clear that my desire for dance and performing arts stretched far beyond a few dance classes a week. In addition to weekly classes, I would also watch music videos and teach myself the choreography in my spare time, often times also creating my own choreography as well. I danced all throughout school and graduated high school as a Plano West Royale in 2003. Shortly after graduating high school, I started creating a name for myself in the dance community. At the age of 18 I directed a dance team called “The Untouchables”. This was my first notable project. Several of the dancers on this team have now gone to lead very successful careers in the dance industry and other fields of passion. This dance team performed all around the metroplex and gained some very prestigious experience in a short time. In the midst of my growth as a self-made producer, director, and choreographer I had the pleasure of teaching at Amandas’s Dance Express in Grand Prairie for 10 years. The owner, Amanda Hunt, discovered me after I taught a master class at Booker T Washington Arts Magnet in Dallas, Texas. Amanda then asked that I come lead her hip hop program. From there, I instructed hundreds of children over the next 10 years in the fundamentals of hip hop, execution, stage presence, precision, and discipline under the mentorship of Amanda. I led the hip hop company to countless first place awards and acknowledgements with my choreography and teachings. I owe a large part of my success to Amanda may she rest in peace. After my time at Amanda’s came to an end, I taught at several other dance studios, making a name for myself in guiding children on their journey in dance. I have a gift for cultivating dynamic talent from RAW, beginner stages of training. This is a gift that I hold close to my heart. I do not require my students be the best dancers. I ask that they put their HEART into their passion for the craft. If they want it, I can built it.
As my journey continued, I auditioned for the Dallas mavericks Dancers in 2005 and made the team! I learned so much under the Direction of dance pioneer and mentor, Shella Sattler. After that, I traveled to and from LA dancing for various artists and gaining much needed experience that would prepare me for the near future. After arriving back in the DFW, I auditioned for the Mavericks again in 2010 and was blessed to enjoy a second year as an NBA dancer. I am forever grateful for the discipline, professionalism, fundamentals, and knowledge that I gained during my time with the NBA.
In 2021, I took the leap to open my own dance studio, iDANZ Performing Arts Studios in Dallas, TX. My first location was in Richardson our current location is in Dallas near the Galleria mall. Both locations were built with love by family and staff making our studio home even more special. Over the last 4 years, my studio has thrived in the most competitive industry that is dance and performing arts. I have been adamant about offering a rounded dance program that focuses on all of the diverse styles of dance from Ballet and Tap, to Hip Hop and Afro Beat. We offer ALL styles of dance and there is a place for everyone at iDANZ. We have grown to over 200 students including our Ancillary programming, adult training, studio recreational dancers, and company dancers. I currently direct a team of talented dancers ranging in age 5-17 called Vizual Content Performing Company (VCPC). I am so proud to direct such a disciplined, humble, vigilant group of performers. We cannot wait to grace the stage at competition this year.
I am blessed to be able to not only dance and perform as a career path, but to also be able to lead and guide others through my genuine passion for uplifting coaching in the dance industry. I am passionate about building dancers of ALL AGES and skill levels. Leading in our community has not only been a privilege, but also a huge learning experience.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
With greatness comes many challenges. Especially being in an industry that is so over saturated in my area. It is important that you maintain your originality and individual style. This may be difficult as a new studio owner. It’s easy to want to follow the trend, but much more rewarding to stay the course. In owning the dance studio, there are many more responsibilities. Where in the past I can just show up and be creative, the load can be much heavier in leadership. At times, it can be hard balancing my own self care, being a single mother, and maintaining my accountability to my commitments. It takes extreme determination and perseverance.
One huge struggle that I have come across is gaining the trust of others as a leader and business owner. We think the shows on TV are all fun and games until you encounter a “DANCE MOM” in real life 🙂 Being as genuine as I am in my craft, its important that I am able to focus and move freely. This can be difficult at times with all of the judgement and competition that resides within the dance community. My best asset is my giving heart. I enjoy what I do and produce greatness. Over time I have learned to move in authenticity and allow my work and character to speak for itself.
One of the biggest lessons I have learned is to accept the fact that dancers come and go. In my 22 years of professional experience, it has been hard to separate my heart from business and professional matters. Recently I have learned to appreciate the time I have had to mentor and lead and bless the journey of my dancers thereafter. This is a beautiful realization. As an instructor and director, I have had the pleasure of being part of so many thriving dance careers. THAT, ultimately, is what it’s all about, the love for dance and genuine desire to grow dancers in their craft.
With all the pressures to produce and exceed even your OWN high expectations, it can become overwhelming. I will only put out the best quality as a standard. It is important to hold yourself at the highest regard and know your worth as a professional.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
After my second season with the Mavericks, I became a mother to my oldest daughter, Cooper. This life changing event was the most rewarding experience, although it came with its own set of challenges. For several years of my adult life, I had to be extremely body conscious. I was required to show my mid section in front of thousands. It was imperative that I stayed a certain weight in order to grace the court as an NBA dancer. Even as a performer otherwise, it was important that my body was “tight” and “fit”. After creating a human being inside your belly, the expectation becomes unrealistic. My self esteem took a turn and I no longer felt like myself. It was difficult to engage in photoshoots, perform, and even dress the way I once did. After deciding I no longer wanted to wallow in my self degradation, I created a dance class called Moms with Moves. This class was created to bring Moms together to boost confidence and restore a sense of self through dance. After Moms with Moves took off, I founded Mom Crew, an all mom and grandma dance team comprised of women from all walks of life, ethnicities, shapes, sizes and backgrounds. Mom Crew is embarking on our 10th season. Through these programs that I created, I have touched the lives of over 250 mothers by way of the dance team, hundreds more through moms with moves, and over a million through community outreach, performances, viral social media reach, and international travel. I have been to several countries spreading my love for dance and serving the community. Some of my recent travels include Jamaica, Bahamas, Guinea, and Peru. In November of 2024, I will be traveling to Curacao to train a dynamic group of dancers called the EXPLOSION DANCERS. I will also lead several mission projects while visiting the island. This is where my heart is.
I would definitely say that I Specialize in building up RAW dancers. I have a gift of seeing the best in those that may not see it in themselves. I enjoy the challenge of creating dance professionals our of beginner dancers. This is what sets me apart. My patient yet firm teaching style has been successful in creating some of the most confident performers. I take pride in being a meaningful asset in the success of dancers all over, locally, nationally, and internationally.
Additionally, It has been such a joy to instill confidence and empowerment in all that I come into contact with. I am so proud of the work that I have done but even more proud of the lives I have touched. This year, Mom Crew shot a calendar promoting body positivity and self love. Each member of the team had a personal photoshoot that was showcased in our 2024/2025 MOMfidence Unveiled Calendar! It was the greatest gift to watch these women transform and see themselves in a completely different light. One that in some cases, they themselves hadn’t uncovered. This and projects like this are what keep me on my toes. Giving the gift of confidence.
I am most proud of being a proud mother and leading my two young girls by example. My daughter Cadence (6) and my daughter Cooper (12) are my most rewarding accomplishments. Being their mother and watching them grow in something we can thrive in together is the most amazing experience. I am blessed beyond measure to be able to “work” and share my love of dance with my children.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking in our community can be challenging. The key is to surround yourself with like-minded individuals that have teachings to offer. We are constantly evolving and constantly learning. Spend your time wisely and do your research.
Thus far, what has worked well for me is building a name for myself and depending on Noone else to lift you to your true potential. As you become your best self, you will attract the best of individuals. Opportunities are endless. Relationships and connections are key to any career path. Be true, honest, humble, kind, and willing to listen and learn in every space you are in.
Pricing:
- Adult Dance Classes $15 per class
- Youth classes starting at a $75/ month
- Private lessons with me start at $100/hr
- iDANZ Private parties starting at our end $250
- Wedding/ Quince/Bar Batmitzvah Choreo starting at $500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.DANZWITHCAM.com | www.momcrewdfw.com | www.idanzperformingarts.com
- Instagram: @camthedancemom @momcrewofficial @idanzstudio @vizualcontentpc
- Facebook: @idanzpa
- Youtube: /MOMCrewDFW
- Other: https://www.momcrewdfw.com/momcrewcalendar Support the MOMS get your calendar today!
Image Credits
Otis Clayborne- Mom Crew Calendar
Alan with DFW Photography
