March 2, 2021
Dani Tucci-Juraga Donates Proceeds From First Children’s Book To Dancers In Need
by Tianna G. Hansen
Sometimes the most beneficial things are considered “boring,” a fact Dani Tucci-Juraga, of Morrisville, explores in her first children’s book, “Belinda and the ‘Boring’ Ballet Class,” largely based on her own experiences as a young dancer.
Dani began ballet at an early age and found it boring due to the classical music and lack of movement – standing at the barre for hours didn’t seem like any benefit to the 2.5-year-old ballerina.
“I wanted to do all the ‘fun’ dances like hip hop and jazz,” Dani recalls. “I have my mom to thank for encouraging me to continue ballet, otherwise I wouldn’t be the dancer I am today.”
Dani’s book pays homage to this, encouraging dancers of all ages to enjoy ballet as a foundation for other styles of dance.
The brightly colored, hand-illustrated book features food as its characters: Belinda and her ballet teacher are broccoli (as Dani explains, “one of the most ‘boring’ foods we often try to avoid”), while the hip hop and jazz students are represented as candy.
“It’s a reminder to everyone, we can’t enjoy the sweet foods and fun dances like hip hop or jazz without the essentials: broccoli, and ballet.”
Ballet teaches dancers coordination, posture, mental strength and focus, to name a few. Her skills learned in ballet propelled Dani to become a professional dancer.
Another message from the book is, she says, “We’re all built differently and dance for different reasons; that should be respected. Everyone deserves the opportunity to dance.”
She has owned and operated her own dance studio in Morrisville for the past 19 years, where she helps students experience the gift of dance.
“We have always tried to award silent scholarships; I don’t want anyone to feel singled out as someone in need,” Dani says. “During the pandemic, I wanted to keep offering that extra help.” This sparked the idea for her book, something she always wanted to do.
As Dani sees it, she’s fortunate enough to have the opportunity to dance, which changed her life.
“Financial status shouldn’t determine whether you get to dance or not.”
Dani is donating all proceeds from her book toward these scholarships to help kids who want to dance and their families as our community endures this pandemic.
Downstage Center Dance Studio is a fully operating dance studio year-round, with a summer session upcoming.
“We’ve been making it work through the pandemic, keeping a fun and safe outlet for kids who’ve had their worlds turned upside down,” Dani says. “It’s a little harder for kids and my teen students, because they’re not going to get these years back. We’re trying to place an emphasis on togetherness in a safe way; any way our dance studio can support these families, we’re looking for that outlet.”
For those looking to help support aspiring dancers, consider purchasing a copy of Dani’s book, which is a joy to read for dancers and non-dancers alike.
“Come by the dance studio and I’d be happy to personalize a copy for you!” Dani says.
You can also find the book online.
Visit Downstage Center Dance Studio, located at 830 W. Trenton Avenue, #1, Morrisville, to pick up a copy and consider beginning your own dance story today.
Dani’s book leaves a message to anyone: take time to rediscover all that you find “boring” – you may be surprised just how much it benefits you.
PHOTO CAP: Dani Tucci-Juraga with her new book.
