Spotlight On: Rachel Bodi for Women’s History Month
Rachel Bodi is presently the Executive Director of Ballet 314, a nonprofit professional ballet company that she co-founded with Robert Poe in 2019. At Ballet 314, Rachel also performs as a company artist, oversees the creation and distribution of educational community programs, and each year, she co-choreographs and re-stages "The Nutcracker & the World's Fair.” Rachel and Robert published this reimagined version of the classic holiday tale as a children’s book and interactive ebook in 2020. In addition to her roles at Ballet 314, she is an Adjunct Professor of Dance at Missouri Baptist University, and an instructor of dance at Devine Performing Arts. Rachel has previously performed as a company artist with Missouri Ballet Theatre, Common Thread Contemporary Ballet, Nashville Ballet 2, and has been a Guest Artist with Texture Contemporary Ballet and Winter Opera St. Louis.
What does Women's History Month mean to you?
I view Women’s History Month as a way to celebrate and reflect on the contributions that women have made- and continue to make- in our society. What may come to mind first are those large accomplishments and accolades that should be recognized. However, I think that day to day, seemingly small contributions or interactions among women should be honored as well- those supportive and meaningful interactions between women that ripple out and impact those in their circle. The most influential women in my life might never be recognized in a history book, but the qualities that I see in them that I wish to emulate in my own life will help me to provide a positive impact to those in my orbit. Historically, it is no secret that the contributions of women in many facets of life have often been diminished relative to the contributions that men have made to our society, and the visibility that is gained through Women’s History Month helps to showcase both those large and small contributions.
Who are some female artists (dance or non-dance) who inspire you and why?
In my dance career, I have always been inspired by the artistry and technique of Marianela Nuñez (is there even a ballet dancer who can admit they are not inspired by her??). I have also found inspiration and utmost respect for Alicia Graf Mack, who I have had the extreme pleasure to meet, and have watched as she transitions through her career as an artist, to motherhood, to being the first Black woman in the role of Dean and Director of Dance at Julliard, where she leads with tenacity, grace, and empathy.
Aside from these incredible artists, my daughter is my biggest source of inspiration. As I faced continuing my career while balancing motherhood, it was important to me that my daughter grow up witnessing me continuing to pursue my personal and professional dreams- and to know that those dreams include her. I cannot adequately express the gratitude that I have for the leadership who were accommodating of my “studio baby” while I continued my performance career. I don’t take it lightly that the best way that I can be an example to her is to live my life fully, showing her that her own aspirations will always be nurtured- just as my own mom, grandmothers, and aunts have always supported my ambitions. The most important people in my life are these who are close to me, who show me everyday how to exist in grace, empathy, and love.
Favorite female-owned business(es) in St. Louis?
I am honored by the constant support and true collaboration among local women in arts leadership. To name a few: Maria Majors- STL Rhythm Collaborative, Emily Haussler- Resilience Dance Company, and Mary Ellen Bryan- Central Studio. This list could go on!
Outside of that: Do you want amazing food? Balkan Treat Box and Telva at the Ridge. Beautiful hair/makeup for your event? Bewitching Beauty Events. Custom creations and talented artists for your event? Vivant Entertainment. Wedding content creation? Hype Queen Media. Adult ballet basics in a low-stress environment? Vitality Ballet.
Free write! Anything else you want to share?
It is my extreme pleasure to work with so many female-driven organizations. From my Executive Assistant, Marcela, and the all-female Board of Directors at Ballet 314, to our predominantly female company of artists; from the dance faculty at MBU to the teaching staff at Devine Performing Arts. In all of these spaces, I witness incredible women selflessly give of their time, talent, and artistry not only in pursuit of their own careers, but also as a way to support and nurture the next generation of artists. In my career as an instructor, I strive to encourage young women artists to understand that a meaningful and worthy career in the arts does not have to look any certain way.
Connect with Rachel!
@rbodi314
@ballet314
http://ballet314.org