Senior Spotlight: Lena Adams '25

Lena performing as Spanish in Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet (2024)

This week, we’re shining the spotlight on graduating senior Lena Adams! A part of our dance family since age six, Lena returned with full dedication her freshman year and is now preparing to graduate from Dixie M. Hollins High School. She’s headed to the University of Florida to pursue a degree in Marine Science, with dreams of becoming a marine biologist focused on animal field research.

Lena (left) pictured with Klaudia (right) before going onstage. They are the ultimate Jazz Duo!

When it comes to dance, Lena’s heart belongs to lyrical and contemporary styles. “I like that it allows me to break the barriers of classical technique,” she says. “I love dancing with emotion, and this style gives me the opportunity to communicate my feelings through movement and expression.”

One of her favorite memories from her years at the studio is warming up backstage with her friends—shaking out their nerves, laughing, and counting down in sync. “We shake out all our limbs while counting to 8, then to 7, then to 6, and so on,” she shares. “It’s our way of centering ourselves before stepping into the spotlight.”

For Lena, dance has been more than just a creative outlet. It’s taught her perseverance and patience. “A routine takes hours of hard work, and there’s not always an immediate result. Dance taught me how to keep going even when things aren’t perfect—because in the end, it will all work out.”

Her senior solo this year, set to Meryl Streep’s version of “Slipping Through My Fingers,” holds a special place in her heart. “This song has always meant a lot to me. It’s about growing up and growing outwards. As my senior solo, I feel like it’s a way for me to say goodbye in a meaningful way.”

Lena performing a fierce jazz solo in 2023.

Lena credits her aunt as one of her biggest inspirations. From dancing merengue, tango, and salsa at family events, to always cheering her on, her aunt has played a pivotal role in her dance journey. “She has always encouraged me to follow my dreams,” Lena says.

Like many dancers, Lena has had to overcome personal challenges—including her tendency toward perfectionism. “It’s hard for me to come to terms with the fact that I’m not immediately good at everything I try to do. But dance taught me that things won’t always be perfect at first. If you work hard, you’ll get there.”

Her advice to younger dancers? “Don’t compare yourself to others. There’s always someone who might be a better dancer than you, but that doesn’t diminish your own skill. Keep going and put in the work, and you’ll be absolutely amazing in your own way.”

As she moves on to this next chapter, Lena says she’ll miss the strong friendships and the “family-like atmosphere” of the studio the most. “People outside of dance will never quite understand dance family. I’m going to miss that the most.”

We’re going to miss you too, Lena! Your grace, strength, and heart have left a lasting impression. Wishing you all the best in Gainesville and beyond!