In this episode of Bee Balm Presents, host Julia Paganelli Marín welcomes Michael Vasquez, a dance teacher who found his passion for dance in an unexpected place: Alaska. Michael recounts his transformative journey from a difficult military service to finding solace and expression in dance. 

The episode also features a reading of Robert Frost's "Fire and Ice," leading to a thoughtful discussion on how the poem parallels the emotional intensity and healing power of dance. Michael reflects on how dance became a way to articulate and manage his emotions, providing a unique outlet for expression and self-discovery. The episode also delves into the importance of intention in dance, how it can mirror life's obstacles, and the role of dance in connecting with oneself and the world. Join us for an inspiring conversation that links the art of dance with emotional well-being and personal growth.

Bee Balm Presents is a ⁠⁠⁠Bee Balm Arkansas⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ project in partnership with the Listening Lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ at KUAF National Public Radio.

Bee Balm Presents Host: Julia Paganelli Marín

Bee Balm Presents Producer: Micah Poor

Listening Lab Coordinator: Emerson Alexander

KUAF Executive Director: Leigh Wood

Special thanks to Avery Martin for permission to use their song “Peach Pretender”. It's a sneak peek from their unreleased EP by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avery Lee and The Sweeties⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ dropping in Spring 2024. 

Learn more about Bee Balm Arkansas at our website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or by following us on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“Fire and Ice” by Robert Frost from New Hampshire