Dance Student Spotlight: Delaney Diaz

My name is Delaney Diaz, 15, and I’m from New Jersey. I dance at Stagelite Academy of Performing Arts.

@delaneydiaz1116

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

I’m a fourth-generation dancer! My great-grandparents met in vaudeville. My grandmother owns a dance studio, and my parents were also professional dancers. I started dancing and modeling at a very young age and have come to love to perform since I can remember!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

So far, I haven’t had to deal with many obstacles. I am thankful to have a supportive family that gets me where I need to be. My family also continues to support my training. But it isn’t always easy. Times can be hard and stressful, but I always know that there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, and I push through!

How do you conquer negative talk?

I just brush it off my shoulder. I have to remember that I have better things to think about than negative things that people say.

What is your favorite quote?

“The best is yet to be” - Robert Browning
because it is actually true!

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

I am a dancer in the upcoming movie “IN THE HEIGHTS” coming to theaters and HBO Max on June 11th!