MEET THE STAFF
ERIC FREEMAN
Born in Beaufort, South Carolina where he began dancing at the age of nine, he loved dancing. When he was eleven Eric started competing at dance competitions and knew that his heart was in dancing. While he attended conventions, even winning many scholarships and “Dancer of the Year” awards. Eric credits his family as they inspired him to pursue dance as a career. At age fourteen, he started teaching dance classes and at age twenty, got booked for his first professional dance job. Later at the age of twenty-one, Eric moved to Los Angeles, California to further pursue his professional dance career.
He has performed in the Grammys, danced at the Apollo theater with Debbie Allen, opened for Mariah Carey and DJ Khaled, trained with the Cuban National Ballet School, was featured in ABC’s Modern Family and appeared in children tv series “Choral Tales.” Eric now teaches and choreographs for different dance organizations as a former artist in resident at Debbie Allen Dance Academy in Los Angeles. Eric prides himself in embodying strong principles learned from his mentors.
What’s a favorite memory from the early part of your career (particularly with the age groups you currently teach)?
I grew up in Beaufort, South Carolina were most dancers in the community started dancing at a very young age. At age 11, my parents signed me up for my very first dance classes where I was asked to join the studios competitive team but I felt behind. Staying at the studio after rehearsals to watch older dancers take class was always my favorite pass-time. I then realized I was a visual learner and fell in love with watching dance videos to better my technique.
Can you share a small story about what inspired you to pursue dance?
Being raised in a household full of athletes made me interested in sports. After trying baseball, track, and soccer I finally realized I was more interested in learning dance steps in music videos then any sport I’ve done. On my 12th birthday my parents gifted me with first dance class and the rest is history.
Who has been a significant figure in your dance journey (mentor, teacher, etc.)?
My teacher/mentor Karen McDonald has been the most significant figure during my dance journey. Ms. Ms Donald has helped me reach limits I never thought were possible. I’m very grateful for her and everyone whose had a part in my jorney.
What advice would you give to young dancers or to yourself when you first started?
Advice that I would give to my younger self would be that everyone’s jorney is different. Do what you love and be proud of doing it as you reach your full potential. It’s never too late to try.
What’s been the biggest challenge you've faced in your dance career, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced in my dance career would be moving from South Carolina to California at a young age , away from family and friends to further purse my dreams. Was the scariest thing but so worth it.
///OUR TEAM
Our instructors are all professionally trained dancers who are committed to sharing their expertise and skills with you! Using their background knowledge of dance fundamentals and experience in professional performances and competitions, our instructors lead by example and passion, helping dancers grow into their potential.
