Today we’d like to introduce you to Zion Pradier.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
So, I’m a professional dancer with Dallas Black Dance Theatre and I’ve been with company for four years thus far and currently still going. I started training in dance at the age of 16 in Lafayette, Louisiana where I’m originally from and during my years of intense training I eventually found myself at The Ailey School, the official school of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre in New York City, which I graduated from in the Certificate Program. During my last year at Ailey (for short) I auditioned for Dallas Black Dance Theatre while the company was on tour in New York City amid auditioning for other dance companies. After receiving no’s and maybes which led to no’s I got a call from DBDT offering me a contract in May 2016, which I wasted no time accepting the contract. I uprooted my life in NYC within two weeks and moved to Dallas and since then. I’ve been growing as an artist and dancer, establishing connections and making a name for myself. You can catch me and my fellow company members performing in the Dallas Metroplex! I’m also a Pilates instructor at SESSION Pilates. Come and take my class! 😉
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I can definitely say it has been smooth road since being here in Dallas despite some emotional struggles. I lost my mom in May of 2019 so that for me has been one of biggest uphill battles, but despite that major loss and the grief that came with it, I ALWAYS honor the sunshine in my life. The Grace of God has truly been riding with me all the days of my life so I definitely give honor to God for the road I have been on and for the road ahead!
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I am a professional dancer with Dallas Black Dance Theatre and I’m also a Pilates Instructor with SESSION Pilates. Dallas Black Dance Theatre is known for its group of dancers who perform and operate at a standard of high excellence in artistry, proper execution of technical ability, versatility, and power. We can do anything! I’m most proud of us as a company because it’s truly a family environment who supports, helps, and uplifts. We will go above and beyond for each other besides getting the work done on stage! As far as SESSION Pilates. They are the best to do it at fitness, in my opinion. The environment, the brand, the workouts, they are GREAT! Go and get your workout on Dallas!!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I personally define success by first believing in yourself. You have to know that you can achieve whatever it is that you want in life. You must be courageous and confident to go after it. It’s not always easy to remain fearless which is why you should do it even if you’re scared. You’re still doing it. Visualize it and see it and make those steps. You’ll end up where you need to be and around who you need to be around! What’s yours is yours! Also keeping in mind that it will take work and then having faith in knowing you will reap what you sew!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @the_zion_king
Image Credit:
Xavier Mack, Rhiannon Lee
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