Amber Daniels shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Amber, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A “normal” day doesn’t really exist for me, and that’s one of the things I love most about this work. As an independent artist and the Founder and Director of Beer and Ballet, my schedule shifts constantly depending on what projects are in motion. This past week, for instance, I was in tech for a musical I choreographed in another city, spending evenings in the theatre fine-tuning movement and working with the cast.
Most days start early with Pilates classes. I teach from about 6 a.m. to noon, then transition into meetings, planning sessions, and creative development for Beer and Ballet. I also serve as President of the Board for a nonprofit dance company not to mention a Director of my own dance company The B&B Collective, so there’s always a layer of arts administration and community work in the mix. On tech weeks, I’m usually on the road by early afternoon and home close to midnight.
It’s a busy rhythm, but every part of it connects back to the same purpose: using movement to build community, spark creativity, and make dance feel accessible and alive in unexpected spaces.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Amber Daniels, Founder and Director of Beer and Ballet, LLC, a company that blends the artistry of dance with the laid-back culture of local breweries. Our mission is to break down traditional barriers to dance and bring the joy of movement into spaces where people already feel at home. Whether you’re a lifelong dancer or just curious, Beer and Ballet makes dance accessible, fun, and totally unexpected.
Since our last interview with Canvas Rebel, Beer and Ballet has grown in exciting ways. We’ve expanded into two new cities and one new state, become officially trademarked across the U.S., and launched a training program for artists interested in leading, teaching, and assisting our classes. We also introduced the Curious Sipper Membership, offering an inclusive, behind-the-scenes experience for our community of movers and supporters. Most recently, we’ve added Crew Days and Nights Out which are social events where people can explore new dance styles, connect with friends, and experience local small businesses.
At its heart, Beer and Ballet is about community, creativity, and connection. Proving that dance doesn’t just belong on a stage; it belongs everywhere.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Disconnection happens when we stop seeing each other as whole, complex humans. When life gets busy, we move on autopilot; heads down, schedules packed, interactions surface-level. That’s when bonds start to fray.
What restores them is shared experience—especially movement. When people come together to dance, even in a brewery, pretense falls away. You don’t have to be a “dancer” to feel rhythm or laugh when you miss a step. Those moments of joy and vulnerability remind us we’re all human, capable of connection.
At Beer and Ballet, we see it every week—strangers becoming friends over a shared plié and pint. Movement creates its own language, restoring presence, empathy, and a sense of belonging.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely. In high school, I attended an arts magnet school and was fully immersed in dance. One of the school’s leaders told me I would never succeed in the dance world. Around the same time, both my knees dislocated twice. Doctors told me I “just don’t have the body for a dancer.” There were so many other times in my life where the world would say no to what I wanted the most.
However, I’m a stubborn lady. It takes a lot for me to give up. I completed my BFA in Dance at Jacksonville University, earning the Honorable Choreographer Award, and then danced professionally for six seasons and now serve as President of the Board for that same company. Later I joined the MFA program in Dance Performance at the University of Maryland, College Park. Today I lecture and teach at multiple colleges, guest teach at several festivals, and even still perform when I can.
Those early challenges taught me that persistence, passion, and belief in yourself can overcome even the harshest “no.” That same spirit drives Beer and Ballet, where we help people discover the joy of movement—no matter their background or experience.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
For the most part, yes. The energy, community, and love for movement people see through Beer and Ballet is a genuine extension of who I am. I don’t separate my artistic life from my personal one, they feed each other. The version of me leading a class, encouraging someone who’s never danced before, or laughing when I miss a step; that’s all real.
That said, there’s always a layer of composure that comes with being the face of a company. As a director, I feel responsible for setting the tone; staying positive, grounded, and forward-thinking, even when things behind the scenes are messy or uncertain.
The public version of me is real; it’s just the most focused, intentional version. Offstage, I’m a little quieter, a little more reflective. Both sides come from the same place: a belief in people, in art, and in creating spaces where both can thrive.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember me as an advocate for dance, someone who worked to make movement accessible and meaningful for all communities. Whether teaching, choreographing, consulting, or creating new work, my goal has always been to foster connection, joy, and belonging.
I want to be known as a human who believed in the power of creativity to bring people together, break down barriers, and create spaces where everyone feels welcome. If someone says, “She made me feel like I could move, and like I belonged,” that would be enough.
Through Beer and Ballet and all the projects I’ve been part of, I hope the story people tell is one of advocacy, connection, and courage—the story of someone who believed in dance not just as an art form, but as a bridge between people and communities.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beerandballet.com
- Instagram: beer_and_ballet
- Facebook: beerandballet
Image Credits
Carl Schmidt of Federal Hill Photography, LLC
