Meet the Dancer and Scoliosis advocate who is changing lives
Paige Fraser is fulfilling her purpose.
Paige Fraser's story as a dancer would already be impressive enough. The BX Native is a cerebral talent, disciplined in a diverse array of styles which have contributed to her being considered one of the 25 To Watch by Dance Magazine. Her ability in the artform is only a part of her story though. As a kid, Fraser was met with the news that she has Scoliosis, a spinal condition that could potentially put a promising dancing career like hers in jeopardy. The diagnosis would prove to be just fuel to Fraser's fire though, and an opportunity for her to light the way for so many others behind her. Now the leader of her own foundation, Paige Fraser is using dance to create opportunities and change lives. We caught up to her just as she was wrapping up some dance instruction in Haiti and she was gracious enough to tell us her story.
1. Can you describe your experience as a professional dancer? How did you get into the art form and what's been some of your favorite experiences?
I started dance when I was 4 years old. It began as a hobby. My mom put me into dance because I loved music. At the age of 10 I realized I had fallen in love with dance. I was granted the opportunity to dance the lead role of Clara in the Nutcracker. As a dancer of color that was a big deal, especially at a Ballet studio. From that point on I saw that so many people believed in me. I worked even harder during the year and was accepted into various summer intensives.
Dance quickly became my life, after school. I continued training in high school, at the Professional Performing Arts School/Ailey School where I was introduced to Modern, Jazz, and African. I loved the various styles. I was accepted into Fordham University/Ailey where I continued my dance training. My junior year I was offered an apprenticeship with Ailey 2 (the second company to Alvin Ailey) and by my senior year I was offered the job. It is actually quite funny, I was on tour with Ailey 2 when my classmates were walking down the aisle, so I wore my cap and gown the same day and took a picture while on tour in Germany.
Following this incredible experience I found myself in a place of transition. I had completed my two years with Ailey 2 and needed a job. It was a humbling time for me because I signed up for two intensives where I was one of the oldest in the room. I knew I wanted to keep training until I got a job. I had heard about a new contemporary company that was starting in Chicago and I submitted my information. After a few emails back and fourth with the director and a video submissions I was offered the job. It was a huge leap of faith for me, leaving NY to join a new company but I trusted God and knew that I would be a funding dancer of company!
Since being here many doors have opened. I was hired to share my story in an INTEL commercial. I won a Princess Grace Award for Dance (which is a very prestigious award given to few artists each year), I was named Dance Magazine Top 25 to Watch and “20 in their 20’s” by Fordham University. I am very blessed for the career I have had and it keeps me motivated and hungry to do more.
2. For those that don't know, can you speak on Scoliosis and the origins of your advocacy for the cause?
When I was 13 I was diagnosed with Scoliosis. Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that can affect breathing as well as impairing the heart and lungs. It is more common in women. Doctors immediately told me that I would need surgery because it would only get worse. Hearing all of this and seeing the x-ray of my spine was terrifying. My parents knew I wanted to be a professional dancer and knew that the surgery would be extremely intrusive. We sought alternative advice and found a chiropractor in the city that helped to stabilize my spine. I was also given two corrective back braces that I wore to school and to bed.
"Our mission is simple; to create a safe space for those dealing with or without challenges to reach their full potential."
This was a tough time for me because I had to figure out my body and learn how to stand and walk differently. One thing that kept me together was dance. I studied my posture and worked on my core strength. Fourteen years later I am still living and dealing with Scoliosis. I am very happy that I did not need to get the surgery. I recently have started taking a Floorbarre class that is similar to Pilates and Yoga. It is a therapeutic way for me to connect with my body and find proper alignment. Some days are better than others, but the work never stops. Dance is healing.
3. Congrats on launching your foundation. Can you speak on what you aim to do for the community with it?
Thank you so much, it is a very exciting time for me! The Paige Fraser Foundation was founded because of my desire to give back to the next generation, especially those from the Bronx because I have such a strong connection to where I’m from. Our mission is simple; to create a safe space for those dealing with or without challenges to reach their full potential. We are starting small and offering a series of pop up workshops for Yoga, Dance Cardio, and Meditation. All information can be accessed on thepaigefraserfoundation.org We are also looking for grant writers and are accepting submissions on our website.
"I believe that everything will unfold as it should in life. I’m learning to let go more and let God."
4. What's been the most challenging part about starting up your own movement?
The hardest part of having my own foundation is agreeing on decisions with the board. I have so many ideas but I am often put in check. We are still so new and need to take baby steps to be most productive.
5. What do you have in store for the future? What are your dreams/aspirations for the future?
Honestly I don’t know what is next for Paige. I have accomplished so many of my dreams and I right now I just want to continue to work hard, stay healthy, remain humble, and travel. I believe that everything will unfold as it should in life. I’m learning to let go more and let God. It is the best way to live.
Instagram - @lovingthispaige