This year we are trying to get to know our dance professors a little more. Last month we interviewed pointe and ballet teacher, Laura Byram. Here's what she has to say!
What is your favorite ballet and why?
Swan Lake! I am so excited that Butler Ballet is performing it this year!! The music is exquisite and deeply moving. I love the storyline, costumes, and the rich emotional qualities that are expressed throughout this ballet.
What inspired you to pursue dance as a career?
My father asked me at the age of 12 to choose between continuing my piano or dance lessons. I chose dance because for me, it was the most challenging, and afforded me the strongest outlet to express myself. I chose teaching because I love to work with young people! Teaching is my passion and I love to pass this passion and love on to others. I find it immensely rewarding!
What do you like to do for fun?
I love to read! My Kindle goes with me wherever I go:) I also love to swim and spend time with my family and friends, Dinners out with my husband are also high on my list of fun evenings. I also love to teach which I consider a lot of fun!
What is your favorite genre of music? Favorite band or composer?
I like any music that is current. Love to drive in my car with the windows down singing and jamming to my tunes! My favorite composers are Tchaikovsky, Debussy, and Bach.
What is your favorite place to travel? Where in the world would you most like to visit that you haven’t already? Why?
As of this time in my life, my favorite place is Cape Town, South Africa. It is absolutely breathtaking with the mountains, beaches, and wineries! I have been to South America, throughout Africa, and almost all of the Caribbean islands, so I would like my next visits to be to throughout Europe. My husband and I will travel soon to Mozambique to visit my daughter and her family as they are living there at this time. She and her husband both work for the State Department working at the various Embassies around the world. It is such a gift to be able to travel and visit them, and see so many wonderful places around the world. I am also expecting my second grandbaby next March so a trip to Mozambique is a must! My first grandbaby just turned two, and she is the apple of my eye! I just love being a grandma!!
Do you speak any foreign languages?
Only my French terminology for ballet:)
What is your favorite book? Favorite author? Why?
Difficult to choose because I love variety in my reading choices. I guess if I had to choose, it would be The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. I love the rich history in the book and the wide breadth of character development. The sequel, World Without End, is also amazing!
What is your favorite movie? Why?
Gone with the Wind especially on the big screen. It is so epic!
What is your favorite Olympic event to watch? Why?
Ice Skating because of the dance aspect (of course), and the appreciation for how difficult it is.
What is your favorite dessert? Favorite comfort food?
Baklava. I love the honey and nuts. Mac n cheese. Just yummy and pure comfort!
Favorite “adult" beverage?
Dirty Martini!!
Any other fun facts or general information that you’d like to put out there? You can make up your own questions to answer if you so desire :)
I would just like to say what an honor and privilege it is to work with all of the talented dancers in Butler Ballet. It is such a blessing to be a part of shaping your lives both as dancers and people. You all inspire and challenge me to be a better teacher and person. I admire all of your hard work, dedication, commitment, and passion to the art of dance. Thank you for sharing your passion and love of dance with me.
