Dallas Black Dance Theatre announces new industry-leading mental health initiative

Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) is excited to announce a new industry-leading mental health initiative for Dallas Black Dance Academy (DBDA) students that has been made possible through the support of an anonymous sponsor. Under this program, all new and existing DBDA students will have access to a free licensed therapist to provide holistic support for an array of challenges such as course work, family dynamics, bullying, mass violence, social injustice, and various forms of loss.

“Mental health sessions are proven to assist adolescents managing life stressors, adjusting to changes, understanding themselves better, making better decisions and living more emotionally balanced lives,” explained Katricia Eaglin, Director Dallas Black Dance Academy.

“Depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents,” Eaglin continued. “Good mental health is closely related to positive outcomes in sports, academics, and the arts.”

DBDA has previously worked closely with licensed therapists during their most recent Summer Youth Enrichment Program. After the positive response from that experience, this new initiative is meant to formalize and create the structure needed to ensure the ongoing support of these young dancers and their mental well-being.

Dallas Black Dance Academy is the official school of Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Founded by Ann Williams, it is celebrating 50 years of delivering dance instruction to a community of diverse backgrounds. The academy trained the first student in the nation to receive the Presidential Scholar Award in Dance in 1980. Students participate weekly in 36 dance classes, including ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and African on-site at DBDT’s studios. Classes are held at Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s studios and are open to students ages four to adult. The academy has three performing ensembles: Allegro Performing Ensemble, Dallas Black Dance Theatre’s premier academy ensemble, Senior Performing Ensemble, and Junior Performing Ensemble.

For details on Dallas Black Dance Academy, visit www.dbdt.com/academy.