Many people often underestimate the high level of physical fitness, flexibility, and strength it takes to succeed in competitive dance. Dancers may spend up to 40 hours per week in the studio at rigorous practices that demand a great amount of mental and physical toughness. It is certainly not an easy task. Dance requires an extreme level of commitment and devotion. Most dancers view it as more than just a sport. The studio is often a second home.
Ramapo senior Brooke Byrne entered the competitive dance world at just three years old, quickly falling in love with the sport and developing incredible skills that she would carry with her into her high school career. Brooke says her “favorite thing about dance is how it combines athleticism with artistry, allowing for emotional expression and storytelling through movement, unlike many sports that prioritize physical performance alone.” Brooke displays her talents on stage not only in group dances but in solos as well, particularly in the lyrical and jazz genres. “Competing my solos has been a very rewarding experience for me,” Brooke says. With the spotlight solely on her, Brooke learned how to perform well under pressure and bring an energetic confidence wherever she goes – whether that be on stage, in the classroom, or throughout her day-to-day life with friends and family.
Byrne first joined Creative Edge Dance Academy at age three and has danced there ever since. Additionally, Brooke danced on the Ramapo Varsity Dance Team as a junior. Her coach, Rachel Marsanico, says, “Confident. Leader. Powerhouse. Three words I’d use to describe my girl, Brooke. There isn’t anything she can’t do. Not only is she extremely talented and a beautiful dancer, she has the biggest heart ever and isn’t afraid to be herself. Her confidence is contagious and commands your attention every time she steps on stage. Brooke always empowers her team to be their best and that’s one of my favorite things about her. Even when I put pressure on her, she never cracks. She’s the type of dancer who is always up for the challenge. She knows I expect big things from her!” Brooke has certainly lived up to her coach’s expectations, putting up exceptional numbers as an upperclassman. She placed in the top three overall in every competition of her junior season, taking first overall four times in 2024.
Brooke plans to continue her dance career after high school on a D1A team that competes every January at the Universal Dance Association in Orlando, Florida. Some of her current top schools include Penn State, Clemson, and Florida State University. Brooke has certainly made her mark on Ramapo and will surely bring her contagious positive energy to whatever college she attends. We are so proud of you Brooke!
