Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tracey Seymour. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Tracey, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I developed an interest in dance at an early age, inspired by my uncle’s passion for it. He encouraged my mom to enroll me in dance classes, and from that moment, I was hooked. By the time I was 16, I discovered my true calling: teaching dance. I knew I wanted to share this art form with all children, but especially those who look like me, giving them the chance to experience the power of dance. Dance not only stimulates the mind but also enhances academic performance and cultivates a range of critical thinking skills that are hard to develop through other means.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Tracey Seymour is a devoted wife to John Seymour and proud mother to Kyren, Kailey, and Kelston. A lifelong dancer, Tracey began her journey at the age of three. She pursued her passion for dance at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she earned a B.F.A. in Dance. Furthering her education, she also received an M.S. in Physical Education from USM in August 2001.

With over two decades of experience, Tracey has been a cornerstone of dance education within the Hattiesburg Public Schools, serving as a dance education specialist since 1997. She has been instrumental in shaping young dancers, coaching the high school’s dance team since 2007. Her influence extends beyond the classroom through her involvement in organizations such as the Mississippi Dance Partnership and the Mississippi Department of Education Dance Educator Working Group.

Tracey is a visionary leader, co-founding the Dance Art Dance Non-Profit and serving as its Executive Director emeritus. Her contributions to the local dance scene are vast, directing several dance ministries, and coaching area cheerleading and dance teams. Her choreography and performances span a wide range of events including dance concerts, recitals, camps, workshops, pageants, and guest appearances throughout the South.

She is the proud owner of The Dance Place School of Dance, now in its 27th season, where her mission is to provide children with a strong dance foundation. Tracey believes that dance enhances cognitive development, boosts test scores, fosters creative thinking, and helps nurture culturally aware, intellectually curious individuals. Her commitment is to ensure every child has the chance to develop both physically and mentally through the art of dance.

Living her dream, Tracey inspires and empowers young dancers, helping them to reflect pride in who they are, in their own skin, as they grow into confident and talented individuals.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Teaching Black children dance is incredibly rewarding because it allows me to provide them with a powerful outlet for self-expression, creativity, and cultural pride. As a dance teacher, I don’t take this responsibility lightly. I understand the impact that seeing someone who looks like them teaching them can have on their confidence and sense of belonging. Dance is not just an art form; it’s a means of empowerment, and I take great pride in creating a space where these children can explore their identity, celebrate their heritage, and develop discipline and resilience. Knowing that I’m helping shape their future by imparting skills that go beyond the studio, including teamwork, perseverance, and self-love, makes every moment spent teaching truly meaningful and fulfilling.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Society should wholeheartedly support the arts because they offer invaluable benefits that go far beyond creative expression. The arts provide children with a positive outlet for their emotions, helping them navigate challenges in healthy and constructive ways. Engaging in artistic pursuits fosters discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving skills—qualities that will serve them throughout their lives. Additionally, the arts create pathways for children to explore their identities, build self-confidence, and develop a sense of community and belonging. By supporting the arts, society is investing in the future, providing children with the tools to think critically, express themselves freely, and pursue their dreams with passion and purpose. The arts have the power to shape well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to their communities, making it a cause worth championing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tdp1998.com
• Instagram: thedanceplace_98
• Facebook: Thedance Place