Meet Jasmine Friday | Professional Dancer, Choreographer, & Dance Educator.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jasmine Friday and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jasmine, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic creative career because I’ve always had the mindset of going against societal norms. Even as a child, I always gravitated to what was least normal or popular. As a child, I had the privledge of having a loving mother, father, and support system who not only introduced me to the arts, but also supported every decision I made within the arts. I’ve learned that being a creative builds specific characteristics within an individual that the normal professional doesn’t witness. The constant tenacity and ambition of the growth of an artists gravitated to my liking and personality. I enjoy all things creative whether its dance, art, film, or simply expression, It is what truly makes my soul happy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a professional dancer and dance teaching artists. I work with dancers age 4 to 18, teaching them everything I know about the world of dance. Whether its, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Modern, African, Contemporary, and Heels. I enjoy being apart of the foundation for our future artists.

I whole heartedly believe that my passion for this line of work sets me apart from others. I am simply proud of myself for continuously going even when I’ve felt unworthy, discouraged, or simply drained from the line of work. There have been many opportunities where I could have easily thrown in the towel but something always brings me back. Whether it’s a simple class or an positive conversation from one creative to another. I am excited about what the future holds and where I can go in this profession. I have yet to reach the level of my desire, but every year I grow and grow more. There have been so many life lessons I’ve learned about myself and just the world in general just by being in the line of work. The world right now needs more artists and creative outlets, and to be apart of the community to allow others to show their expression simply makes me proud that I was chosen for this line of work.

Of course it was not easy, it has not been easy, and it will not get easier! But the tenacity and strength that I have built to get to where I am today, has truly proven to me that I can get through anything as long as I simply give out what I wish to receive, and that is positivity and my expression through dance. I’ve grown so close with God within the last couple of years as I navigate through the challenges of this profession. It can weigh heavy on your mental if you let it. I’ve leaned on God, my family, and support system during the rough times. Also taking breaks is one of the best things I’ve learned thus far. Artists can fall short sometimes when they are completely burned out. The guilty feelings creeps in and then one starts to wonder. Whenever those thoughts arrive, I simply give myself some grace and take a break. From traveling, taking a “me” day, or surrounding myself with family and friends is worth the time off.

I want the world to know that I am a multifaceted artist. I will not be placed in a box just because I am a dancer. I am a visionary, a comforter, a story teller, and an overall vibe. My brand, Jazzy Dancers, represents me and all the beautiful movers out there that wish to become a professional dancer and/or teaching artists.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A week spent with me in the city would simply be an adventure. We’d have breakfast outside at my favorite breakfast spot Brooklyn Bagel. We’d then stroll over to Vickery Creek Park to enjoy a nature walk and view the waterfalls. I love all things music, art, and dance so a trip to Rock Steady to enjoy some amazing Caribbean cuisine then move upstairs to the gallery to listen to dope DJs. I love visiting The High Museum of Art and any exhibits that are available at the time. Second Sunday’s are always a vibe because its free and there are so many cool activities for families. Every day we would do some type of outdoor activity at the park nearby where I live. We’d visit Piedmont Park of course, skate along the Beltline, and hike at Stone Mountain Park. I enjoy trying local food places as well so we would spend out time enjoying Venezuelan cuisine at Cylantros, Jamaican cuisine from Kool Runnings, and of course my favorite Soul Food spot thus far, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken. I enjoy a good skate night for the culture at Cascade skating rink. Lastly, I would treat them to my adult heels dance class at Divine Dance on Tuesday nights just to loosen up and experience the dance scene!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The most high, our Lord and Savior Jesus deserves all the credit in my story. There isn’t a day that goes by without me thanking him for instilling this gift inside of me. My mother and father are truly amazing for making sacrifices just so I can be able to perform and simply do exactly what I love. Lastly, my dance mentor Ms.Bridget Archer of the Bridget Archer Performing Arts company for taking me under her wing and showing me everything that she could possibly ever know. She has passed down so many experiences and knowledge that I will forever be grateful for her willingness to bring up the young generation of Jackson Mississippi.

Instagram: ITSJFRIDAY LINK: https://instagram.com/itsjfriday?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasmine.friday.18?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jfriday5541?feature=sharea

Image Credits
D’artagnan Winford James Viles: Visuals.AF Omar Slade: Osvisions