theBendlogo_darkTheBend: A fusion of insights from creative professionals, discussing concepts of the artistic Mind Body and Soul.  The Bend dives deeper through a broad range of grounded topics often questioned by dancers and creative professionals, with a foremost reminder to be present in the process.

Ok, I’ve taken a sabbatical. It was unintentional of course. I hate to neglect a commitment and that is what happened for the past few months of my column. While I cannot promise it will never happen again, I can assure my readers that it will only come at a time of complete chaos, which will in effect inspire me for future posts. I believe this was all a positive, I hope you do to.

My final farewell shows came and went, each celebration was grander than the last. Just as I thought my last glass of Champagne was toasted, my colleagues surprised me with a “final tour” vacation, to celebrate together just a little bit longer. My heart has never felt so full of gratitude. I wrapped up my career with my best friends, family, and colleagues all by my side, celebrating and giving support in immeasurable ways. In the words of Tracy Chapman, “I did it all”.   I Did It All- Tracy Chapman

So now I sit here in a trendy coffeeshop on a Wednesday in November, writing in the middle of the day because I can. The dust has settled, the emotional hangover is finding light, and I am in a fresh existence. I took the plunge into post-dance life, and yes it is different, but I am ok.

To commemorate this new chapter of The Bend, I’d like to consider the literal meaning of the ‘cross-over’. As a dancer, I always found a ‘cross-over’ in a piece to be so personal. A time of inward reflection, in an otherwise outward and often chaotic experience during a performance. I have vivid memories in theatres all over the world completing this task. Sometimes exhausted and panicked, other times glowing and loving the exhilaration. Running behind the stage was a break in the action from the piece happening, to get to your new place, and new entrance. I’ve found that the figurative crossover of dancer life to ‘normal’ person is not all that different. Somedays I am defeated; yet some days I am in awe that this is my new life. I may not have my new entrance choreographed yet, but hey, I’ve always love the creation process!

I do believe there is a way to making a crossover a success. To continue the performance, and to continue a story, without disruption outwardly along the way.   In stealing a few tricks from my former self, I know I must take a few deep breaths, grab a sip of water, and trust that I can do it. It has worked before, so now, already I am going to rely on my humble dance experience, and apply this as I emerge from the wings in my new act in life.

-Samantha Klanac Campanile