From Homeless Shelter to Ballet Stardom: My Inspirational Journey
Against all odds, my journey from a homeless shelter to the ballet stage unfolded miraculously, propelling me into a remarkable career as an acclaimed international ballet dancer, choreographer, and teacher Experience the incredible story of Steven Melendez
Steven Melendez, artistic director of New York Theatre Ballet and a featured personality in the documentary "LIFT," which is accessible on Apple and Amazon, shares his story. Born in the Bronx, New York, Steven has had an impressive dance career that includes being a soloist with Ballet Concierto in Argentina, a principal dancer with the Vanemuine Theater Ballet Company in Estonia, and a member of the New York Theatre Ballet for over 15 years. In this commentary, Steven reflects on his personal experience of living in a family homeless shelter in New York City three decades ago, where aspirations and challenges collided.
Steven Melendez
I lived at a shelter where New York Theatre Ballet's LIFT program, which offers scholarships, mentoring, and other support to children facing homelessness, insecurity, and risks, was in operation. It was a stroke of luck that my journey as an internationally recognized ballet dancer, choreographer, and teacher began during this period. Presently, I hold the position of artistic director at New York Theatre Ballet and am the focal point of the documentary film titled "LIFT." The film documents my experiences mentoring children who are currently enrolled in the program that transformed my life.
My life's journey has taken an unconventional path, defying societal norms and stereotypes. It highlights the significance of arts outreach programs like LIFT in combatting homelessness.
While specific data is scarce, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development revealed that over 580,000 individuals were experiencing homelessness nationwide in January. However, the impact of this issue is far-reaching, with an additional millions affected. According to the analysis by the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies using Census Bureau data, nearly one-third of all US households allocated more than 30% of their income towards housing in 2021.
Near the Houston Central Library in Houston, Texas, U.S., individuals gather in long queues as they await donated meals. The city has implemented a legislation that limits the feeding of groups in public areas. This photograph was taken on April 24, 2023, and is credited to REUTERS/Evan Garcia.
Evan Garcia/Reuters/FILE
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Recently, New York City has experienced a surge in homelessness, comparable to the levels seen during the Great Depression. In June, the shelter population exceeded 80,000 individuals, as reported by the advocacy group known as the Coalition for the Homeless. It is important to note that this predicament is not solely caused by immigration nor does it exclusively affect those who are mentally ill or addicted to drugs. As a personal example, my family faced homelessness despite my mother working as a medical researcher and supporting two children. Unexpectedly, we were evicted from our home in the Bronx.
The LIFT program didn't just expose me to ballet; it completely changed my life. The initial, hesitant pliés I mastered represented more than mere dance steps; they embodied hope, offering solace from the harsh realities of homelessness in America.
As a marginalized child, ballet provided me with a chance to shine in renowned theaters globally, while also spreading the invaluable message of the transformative impact of outreach initiatives.
But why ballet? Why, amidst urgent necessities like shelter, food, and education, did a dance program make such a meaningful impact? It was through ballet that I acquired discipline, resilience, and creativity.
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Steven Melendez working with children in a still from the new documentary, "LIFT."
New York Theatre Ballet
The demanding training requires unwavering dedication, punctuality, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The extensive practice hours and inevitable setbacks taught me the value of perseverance and the ability to withstand, adapt, and rebound from failures. Additionally, the essence of dance - creativity and expression - nurtured my imagination and passion for cross-cultural communication.
These qualities are beneficial to any young adult, whether in the performing arts or in a corporate setting, and they epitomize personal growth. Ballet training offers equal opportunities to young individuals, especially those who face disadvantages, allowing them to achieve their goals and earn their own self-respect. When you exist on the outskirts of society, this becomes the most important aspect. It embodies the American dream - the right to pursue opportunities and achieve success.
I embody the coming together of potential and opportunity. This understanding is shared by influential figures like Diana Byer, the founder of New York Theatre Ballets LIFT program, and Jacques d'Amboise, the founder of the National Dance Institute network, among others. However, there are also those who fail to grasp its significance. In the midst of pressing discussions surrounding wealth inequality, homelessness, and the long-lasting effects these issues will have on future generations, we must not disregard the profound influence that personal and social-emotional development holds for young individuals. Join our weekly newsletter for free.
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Talent knows no bounds and does not discriminate based on socioeconomic status - it only needs a platform. The arts should not be seen as extracurricular activities that come after basic needs like shelter, food, and education. When taught effectively, they serve as the foundation for cognitive growth and self-esteem, offering a wide range of benefits. Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts.
During the first GOP presidential debate, the topic of homelessness was only briefly mentioned alongside drugs and crime. However, this does not align with my personal experience, nor with the experiences of the nearly 1,000 homeless and housing-insecure families and children in New York City that New York Theatre Ballet has been serving through our LIFT program since 1989.
The "LIFT" documentary, filmed over a 10-year span, stands out in an era flooded with tales of adversity. Rather than focusing on the challenges, it beautifully illuminates hope and showcases the unwavering resilience of children, emphasizing a brighter future.
