Dancer Spotlight: Drew Phipps
This week on Stepping Forward, we are thrilled to shine our Dancer Spotlight on Drew Phipps. At BOOT Dance Project, we celebrate the incredible talent of Texas-based dancers, and Drew’s journey reflects resilience and an unwavering commitment to her art. From her early years in competitive dance to her collegiate training and professional aspirations, Drew’s story is one of dedication.
Getting to Know Drew
Drew Phipps is currently pursuing a double major at the University of Texas at Austin, earning a BFA in Dance alongside a BS in Kinesiology and Health. Her journey into dance began at the young age of three, initially focusing on ballet. However, her artistic journey expanded when she joined a competitive dance company at age nine, training under Mallorie Marion at Move Dance Family. There, she developed her versatility, immersing herself in contemporary, modern, jazz, hip hop, tap, and more.
Reflecting on her training in Texas, Drew shares, “I loved training in Texas because, despite its vast size, numerous cities, and countless studios, there was always a strong sense of community and shared Texas pride that connected us all.” This deep-rooted sense of belonging continues to shape her dance career today.
The College Dance Experience
For Drew, staying in Texas for college was a purposeful choice. She values being able to grow artistically while remaining close to home, continuing to build meaningful relationships within the Texas dance community.
Her decision to pursue dance professionally solidified later in high school. She explains, “While I had always loved dancing and creating, I was never exposed to the idea that dance could be a viable profession, especially growing up in the public school system. When it was time to explore colleges, our advisors guided students toward universities that excelled in their chosen career paths, both in and out of Texas. However, when I expressed my desire to study dance, I was met with hesitation and discouragement rather than support. That moment only solidified my determination. Instead of letting their doubts shake me, I used them as motivation to research universities with strong dance programs and find the one that was the best fit for me.”
At the University of Texas at Austin, Drew has found a supportive and challenging environment that fosters both her artistic and academic pursuits. “Balancing a double major has been demanding but incredibly rewarding. The interdisciplinary knowledge I’ve gained from my kinesiology studies has deepened my understanding of movement, injury prevention, and the science behind dance,” she shares. This holistic approach to her education allows her to refine her technique while preparing for a sustainable career in the field.
She also highlights the importance of networking and mentorship in college. “Being surrounded by passionate faculty and peers has opened my eyes to different career pathways in dance, from performance to choreography to dance science. It’s reassuring to know that my options are not limited,” she adds. Her time at UT Austin has helped her navigate the complexities of pursuing a professional dance career while staying deeply connected to the Texas dance community.
Experience with BOOT Dance Project
Drew’s experience with BOOT Dance Project was nothing short of transformative. She describes it as uplifting and inspiring, particularly because the cast was composed entirely of Texas dancers, led by fellow Texas native, Jessie Ferguson. “Jessie fostered an environment of mutual respect and open communication, creating a strong bond among the cast that carried through to the performance and beyond.”
She recalls, “I felt both supported and challenged by everyone in the room, making each rehearsal something I genuinely looked forward to. There was an undeniable sense of trust and camaraderie, which made the creative process incredibly fulfilling.”
Through BOOT, Drew gained valuable insight into the professional dance landscape in Texas. The project not only provided her with performance and training opportunities but also served as a crucial resource for staying connected to the broader dance community. “BOOT reshaped my perspective on building a career in dance by revealing the many opportunities available in the professional dance field in Texas, far more than people often realize,” she shares.
One of the most significant lessons she learned from BOOT was the power of building authentic connections with fellow artists. In a field that can often feel competitive and daunting, she found an environment that prioritized friendship and collaboration. “The professional dance world can often feel intimidating, but being in an environment rooted in friendship and support allowed everyone to thrive and grow,” she explains. “This experience left me with a deep sense of fulfillment and joy, reinforcing the power of community in artistic and professional spaces.”
She also deeply appreciates BOOT Dance Project’s advocacy for fair dancer compensation, even in its early stages. “Jessie’s commitment to respecting dancers’ time and ensuring fair pay speaks volumes about the kind of leader she is and the company she’s building.”
Advice for Aspiring Texas Dancers
For younger dancers considering collegiate programs in Texas, Drew offers: “Don’t be discouraged in finding a program that aligns with your passions. Every dance program in Texas offers something valuable, and they should all be considered serious options that can help you enter the professional dance world.”
What’s Next for Drew?
You can follow Drew’s journey on Instagram at @drewphippss. She has exciting performances on the horizon, including the Cohen New Works Festival at UT Austin in April and the presentation of her own choreography at Texas State University in March for the American College Dance Association.
BOOT Dance Project is proud to have worked with such a dedicated and inspiring dancer, and we can't wait to see where Drew's journey takes her next!
