Why is a renowned ballet dancer, choreographer, and arts foundation director launching a childrens book?
I think art education is the most important aspect in any education. And this country sorely needs its encouragement, given the historic [record] on the subject. I also have a personal agenda—four kids and two grandchildren—so I was creating this book just for them. American arts education certainly has its critics. What do you say is lacking? Sources of finance. European governments give much more to education and art, it’s no secret. Their children speak multiple languages, and art is a natural part of the home. [In the U.S.] we are a country oriented to sports and computers, sports especially, and art is a kind of a sideline, so [among children] just the lucky ones are introduced [to the arts] by their parents or strangers or teachers, or unintentionally. Or, like this book, by an eccentric grandmother who introduces this kid to dance! You know, and I know, people like that! I sometimes take dance classes with the extravagant ladies like that! Was “the grandmother” based on someone
