Lola Martin is a  13-year-old dancer from Lawrence, Kansas. She dances at the Dance Gallery.

“I hope that I bring happiness to people or move them emotionally when they see me dance.”

How does dance have a positive impact on your life?

“Dance is a space where I can express myself fully without feeling judged. Sometimes I struggle to share my emotions but I’m able to do it without words when I have an opportunity to move and perform through dance. I’m the happiest when I am on stage or in the studio, and the relationships that I have made through my dance journey are so special to me! The support that I am able to give and receive through dance has had a really positive impact on my life. I don’t know what I would do without dance, it is my passion!!”

How do you want to use dance to make a positive influence on your community?

“I dance for myself, of course, but I also dance to make others happy or to feel connected to my performances. I hope that I bring happiness to people or move them emotionally when they see me dance. I really do love the sense of community that comes with being a dancer and I hope to continue to be a positive role model for younger dancers as I continue to learn and grow as a dancer myself!!”