Surya Rachel Bille and Shee’Raelle David take on Juilliard
Amidst the bustling streets of New York City, the vibrant rhythm of dance resonates, drawing aspiring artists from every corner of the globe. Surya Rachel Bille, a student of INDISU Dance Theater, and Shee’Raelle David, who honed her craft with Temps Danses in Saint Martin, found themselves swept up in the magic of the city as they embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at the prestigious Juilliard School.
Their journey to Juilliard was not paved with shortcuts or special privileges. Despite having connections to Juilliard dean Alicia Graf Mack and Broadway dancer and Art Saves Lives foundation founder Nicole de Weever, Surya and Shee’Raelle had to earn their place through hard work and talent. Introduced to the Art Saves Lives summer initiative spearheaded by Nicole de Weever, the girls discovered a multitude of opportunities. From mastering various dance-forms to learning the ropes of financial planning and social media exposure, the program offered a holistic approach to dance education.
It was through this program that Surya and Shee’Raelle learned about the Juilliard Dance Experience, a gateway to the world-renowned institution. With its live accompaniment and rigorous curriculum, the experience promised to challenge and inspire budding dancers. Their adventure in New York City extended beyond the dance studio. From exploring the iconic Times Square to immersing themselves in the magic of a Michael Jackson musical, Surya and Shee’Raelle savoured every moment of their whirlwind trip.
For Surya, the Juilliard experience was a revelation. “The whole experience was amazing,” she gushed. “It gave me more confidence in my abilities. After my Juilliard experience, I felt different, I felt free. This experience solidified that this is what I want to do with my life.” Meanwhile, Shee’Raelle found the experience both educational and exhilarating. “The experience was extremely fun,” she shared. “I hope that in the future, I am lucky enough to have another opportunity like this.”
Their favourite moments ranged from the challenging ballet classes to the invigorating contemporary sessions. As they shared their dreams of becoming renowned dancers, it was evident that their passion and dedication would propel them toward greatness. Surya, who started dancing at the tender age of two, sees Miss Indira, her ballet and modern teacher, as her role model. “She gave me great advice and stories about her own dance journey,” Surya expressed, “and has a huge role in my life.” Additionally, she envisions herself performing for someone famous in the future.
On the other hand, Shee’Raelle, who trains for a minimum of two hours six days a week, aspires to become a ballerina, drawing inspiration from Alicia Graf Mack, her role model in the dance world. She also found the contemporary class at Juilliard to be particularly enjoyable, where she gained new techniques and experiences. With stars in their eyes and rhythm in their hearts, Surya and Shee’Raelle embody the spirit of young artistes chasing their dreams. As they continue to dance their way through life, their journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream.
