My Story.
Hello, friend! I’m so glad you decided to visit. I’m Leila, a NE Alabama based history, dance, and sewing enthusiast. Some would say I’m, “not your average gal,” but here’s the thing: I don’t think, “average,” exists. We are all created with a unique skill set; our interests, hobbies, and goals make us individuals. This site is a snapshot of how we can share a few of my favorite things, which just may overlap with yours!
Welcome to “Graceful Excellence.”<3
My parents enrolled me in my first ballet class when I was three. I was hooked.
Twelve years of training led to pointe, contemporary, lyrical, tap, and jazz classes spread over 5 days a week- including Saturdays.
There was so much joy in dancing on stage, but something was missing.
In high school, when my mother asked if I wanted to audition for a community theatre show, I laughed. After all, I had given up theatre years before to fully pursue dance!
But, this show was different. It was a musical.
Musical Theatre was the ideal combination of my favorite things: Music, Dance, Acting, and Costume. However, Ballet was my, “first love.”
Being a Prima Ballerina was my highest aspiration. Could I forgo over a decade of dreams to pursue my new passion?
Then, something changed.
I taught my first dance class in 2016.
Suddenly, I had a new dream.
Young minds crave new information, and I was beyond ready to give it to them. Excitement filled the room as we began breathing exercises and conditioning training. We spent hours in the studio learning to cherish missteps and mistakes. They were no longer a reminder of where we were; they were an opportunity to see just how close our goals could become.
This was what I loved: seeing young dancers realize technique was there to serve THEM. Watching hours of determination produce a single clean pirouette. Facilitating stage presence through character study and improvisation.
It took 12 years, but I suddenly realized what I had truly loved all along. It didn’t matter if I taught dance or theatre. There is no joy that compares to sharing your knowledge with someone new.
Sharing knowledge became my passion.
Dance history conversations grew into Dancing Through History workshops and summer camps. My personal Historical Balls became community events full of friends and neighbors.
That is the beginning of my story. It is far from over, and I look forward to sharing the next part of this adventure with you.
Fun Facts:
I love collecting antique books- especially Turn-of-the-Century romance novels!
I hold a BA from Jacksonville State University, where I majored in History and minored in Music. I just began my master’s studies!
My favorite color is a deep yellow, the same as my first Victorian ball gown!
I made my Carnegie Hall debut at 14, and it’s my all-time favorite performance venue.
I’ve been “gluten free” for nearly a decade and share my favorite tried-and-true recipes here under the “Gluten Freed” tab!
What People Are Saying
“
My twin daughters wanted a ball for their 15th birthday, and Leila made it so special. Her excitement and confidence put everyone at ease. We had around 60 dancers, and even the most reluctant dancers had a blast!
”
— Kristi C.