EEE Company Profile: Mallory Dykema

Photo by Bill Cameron from "Lost" EEE Twelve

When did you start dancing: I began formal dance training when I was in 6th grade- a lot later than many. However, I was born into a family where creative expression was a way of life in our home. I was used to expressing myself through music, stories, and art so when I began ballet class at eleven- it made sense to me. A few years in and I was in class 5-6 days a week. I grew up with such a rich training and began some of my deepest friendships- such wonderful memories! 

College Attended/Degree: University of Minnesota // BFA Dance

Number of years with EEE: Since winter of 2007! 9 years!

Photo by Bill Cameron from "Waiting for Love" First Nights

Besides your time in class and rehearsal with EEE, what are your other jobs? I'm a mama of three, so that's the main gig now! I used to teach dance, choreograph musicals, direct shows, and have my own freelance makeup biz. When my second baby came, I realized that I can't do everything and I let go of some things in my schedule. When my third baby came, I realized I can't do anything!--- besides mothering my precious babies of course. oh and I homeschool my oldest!

What do you love about being an EEE dancer? There's A LOT to love, here's a few things:

Karis is a special type of artistic director. She really sees us- all aspects of who we are and desires to highlight and nurture the uniqueness in all of us. She treats us like fellow artists and values our voice. Karis cares about our lives beyond dance. 

The stories. I love to perform characters and tell stories- EEE has given me so many opportunities to dance stories. 

Photo by Bill Cameron from "Foot Flight by Night" -preview

The other dancers! They're talented and committed, focused and excellent. Also, they're wonderful people and my friends. The rehearsal environment is very familial. 

The ability to continue performing after becoming a mother times three. Karis, a mother herself, is so encouraging and understanding of motherhood and its demands. She keeps involving mama dancers which is so special and important and meaningful to me!

Photo by Calabay Productions "The Trio"

As a dancer, what's something you're learning right now/ something that's inspiring you?  My body has gone through three pregnancies, three recoveries. After my third sweet boy, I've had less time/energy for dancing which means that my body doesn't feel like the dancing body it once was. Sometimes I wonder if I can still call myself a "dancer"- which alludes to how loaded that title has been for me. Then I think what if being a "dancer" simply means devoting oneself to the exploration of movement and loving that. Because in some ways, I love exploring movement more now than I did when I lived my life in the studio. I have more perspective and freedom than I did at 21 (thank God). So I'm learning to accept the title of "dancer" with the freedom to acknowledge that even though I dance less, I'm not less of a dancer.

Photo by Calabay Productions "Waiting for Love" from DreamScape

Random/fun fact about yourself: My favorite color is leopard print. 

What music are you moving and grooving to right now: CHRISTMAS MUSIC 24/7 (until 12/26)