Candace Waller is a native of Fanwood and the founder of Why We Dance – an organization dedicated to fostering community unity through the art of dance. In addition to teaching dance to young people and adults alike throughout the region, she is also an avid writer and holds a Masters in Digital Publishing from New York University.
To learn more about Why We Dance, read the interview with Candace below and be sure to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also read her writing here.
Question 1: What was it like growing up in Fanwood?
I loved growing up in Fanwood. It is a pretty town, with a lot of diversity. My favorite activity as a child was playing in the woods and riding my bike.
Question 2: What first interested you in dance as an art form?
I always loved to dance. My parents said that when I was a toddler I would dance to the intros to television shows and commercials. As a tiny infant I loved music and could be lulled to sleep by hearing Motown artists. This love for music drew me to dance and playing the piano.
Question 3: When did you decide that you wanted to teach dance and share it with others?
Community service is important to me. When I was in dance class there weren’t many brown little girls. I wanted to share the joys of dance with children whose parents could not afford lessons.
Question 4: Why did you found Why We Dance and what is the mission behind it?
The motto for Why We Dance is connecting the community through dance. Dance breaks down barriers and brings people together. Why We Dance has brought joy to so many children and that makes me happy and proud.
Question 5: How do you think dance brings people together?
Everybody is equal on the dance floor. They are all learning and laughing. Dance class is a time to have fun and learn about the world. I bring in instructors from various disciplines to teach students about culture and dance.
Question 6: Now that you’re celebrating Why We Dance’s 10th Anniversary, how would you compare year-one to year-ten? Can you describe how it’s changed over the last decade?
It has been a journey where I have learned and grown a lot. I started this group at St. John’s Baptist Church under the late great Rev. Kelmo C. Porter Jr. He gave me the opportunity and I will forever be grateful to him.
Question 7: Are there any unique challenges or opportunities that you have experienced or noticed as a community leader of color?
There are always challenges when you lead a group. I had a great mentor, my uncle Eddie “Abdul” Hackett to guide me. He was a wonderful community leader and a patient teacher so when I had questions I could always go to him. Sadly he passed away last year but I still feel his presence. He supported my dance group emotionally and financially. My goal is to honor him every year at my dance event.
Question 8: What does Black History Month mean to you?
I celebrate Black History every day. Black History cannot and should not be contained to one month. As an African-American woman I try to learn about my history each day and share with others what I have learned.
Question 9: What are some other organizations, activities, businesses, etc. that you like to support in the Fanwood area?
I like to shop in the area. I think it is important to support local businesses. Fanwood is a beautiful town with warm people. I really like the Fanwood Memorial Library. They have a wonderful staff and a cozy atmosphere.
Question 10: If someone wants to get involved with Why We Dance, how can they do so?
The Why We Dance Festival is taking place on Sunday, March 31 from 2-5:30. I am also looking for student dancers to participant in practices so they can perform at the event. Rehearsals start in March. Anyone interested in these programs can reach me at whywedance@gmail.com. I also have a website whywedance.wordpress.com. I am on Twitter and Instagram at WhyWeDanceOrg and Facebook at WhyWeDance. Thanks so much for sharing this information with your readers.
