We recently had the chance to connect with Monica Newsam and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Monica, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
Many people believe that high ceilings are necessary for a studio space to accommodate an aerial program. However, having aerial apparatuses closer to the floor can actually enhance safety and build confidence during the learning process. There are several aerial skills that can be taught at lower heights to provide support and reassurance for students. Additionally, some aerial apparatuses, such as aerial hoops and hammocks, can be effectively rigged in spaces with lower ceilings.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Monica Newsam, and I am the president and Artistic Director of Newsam Aerial Dance. In collaboration with my sister, who lives in France, we write books about aerial dance curricula to help dance academies and studios implement aerial programs safely. Our series is called “Aerial Dance for Dancers,” and it covers all four main aerial apparatuses: aerial hammocks, trapeze, aerial silks, and aerial hoops. We are currently working on our final book, which focuses on aerial hoops, and we are excited to bring closure to this project that we started in 2018. Additionally, we have an aerial dance company that embodies our vision of merging aerial movement with floor movement, emphasizing flow and intention.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My sister, Graciela Newsam, is my best friend and partner in life. We have been dancing together since we were five years old, and since then, we have engaged in every project together. We support each other in everything we do, and most importantly, we help each other grow. Unfortunately, we don’t live in the same country at the moment, but we spend every moment we can working together on books or traveling to support each other’s projects. I feel extremely fortunate to have my sister by my side at all times.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
I am originally from the Republic of Panama, and I miss my culture. Panama is a small country with little support for the arts, so in order to develop and grow my vision, I had to leave and move to the United States to find a voice and a place to express my artistic work. Adapting to a new country with such a different culture has always been a challenge, requiring time and a lot of patience. I love St. Louis and the dance community that has embraced me and provided me a space to continue crafting my artwork.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Perhaps, hard work, dedication, and being reliable.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The passion and desire to pursue your interests is vital for your soul. There is always a way to follow what you are passionate about, and you can find that path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.newsamaerialdance.net/
- Instagram: @newsamaerialdance
- Facebook: Newsam Aerial Dance
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GramodanseUS/featured
Image Credits
All images are from Photo Elegance
The image with the trio (three dancers), Morgan Rabe
