Meet Tanesha Payne

We recently connected with Tanesha Payne and have shared our conversation below.

Tanesha, so great to have you sharing your thoughts and wisdom with our readers and so let’s jump right into one of our favorite topics – empathy. We think a lack of empathy is at the heart of so many issues the world is struggling with and so our hope is to contribute to an environment that fosters the development of empathy. Along those lines, we’d love to hear your thoughts around where your empathy comes from?
Developing empathy has been a multifaceted journey for me, intricately woven with my engagement in movement, particularly through dance. This somatic practice has served as a profound conduit, allowing me to forge a deeper connection with my body and emotions. Through the rhythms of dance, I’ve honed my ability to attune to my physical sensations and subtle emotional nuances, fostering a heightened sense of self-awareness. This heightened awareness has been instrumental in understanding and empathizing with others’ experiences, enabling me to recognize and resonate with their emotions on a visceral level.

Over time, I’ve come to understand that empathy, much like dance, requires continuous practice and dedication. This realization fuels my commitment to creating safer spaces where individuals can authentically express themselves. Within these nurturing environments, people feel accepted and supported, leading to a greater openness and vulnerability that fosters genuine connections. Deep listening becomes inherent in our interactions as we attune ourselves to each other’s movements, gestures, and unspoken emotions. As I guide others through their own movement journeys, I not only help them connect with themselves but also cultivate an atmosphere where empathy can flourish. Through regular practice and shared experiences, we not only refine our dance skills but also deepen our capacity for empathy, learning to listen, support, and connect with one another on a profound level.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
For nearly 25 years, I’ve been immersed in the world of dance, whether it be through training, performing, educating, or creating. Guided by Alvin Ailey’s profound insight that “dance came from the people and should always be delivered back to the people,” I’m committed to integrating somatic movement into various spaces, be it classrooms, business conferences, leadership professional development sessions, studios, or musicals. This philosophy underscores my belief in the universal accessibility and transformative power of dance.

Following the completion of my MFA in Choreography in 2022, I embarked on a mission close to my heart: to establish a thriving contemporary dance scene in San Antonio. This journey led me to found sumRset Movement, a professional contemporary dance company dedicated to increasing the visibility, accessibility, and appreciation for movement as a performing art form. Through collaborative initiatives and community engagement events, we’re actively reshaping the cultural landscape of our vibrant city.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I am a proud mother, a devoted wife, a loving daughter, a supportive sister, and a loyal friend. I LOVE breaking bread and sharing laughter in each of these capacities; it truly makes my heart smile. I am a perpetual student of life, continuously seeking growth, learning, and new adventures. Not only do these relationships and experiences provide me with grounding and inspiration, but they inform every aspect of my being, enriching my journey and driving my passion for making a positive impact in the world.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe three qualities have been particularly impactful: openness, asking questions, and being me. Being open and curious has allowed me to approach dance with a sense of wonder and exploration rather than confining myself to preconceived notions of what it should be. This mindset has led to beautiful opportunities and collaborations that have enriched my understanding of dance and taught me invaluable lessons along the way.

Secondly, I’ve learned the importance of not being afraid to ask for help or understanding. Whether it’s seeking guidance on starting a company or directing a show, I’ve found that people are often more than willing to lend a helping hand if you’re willing to ask. Many have walked similar paths and understand the challenges you may be facing—they want to see you succeed and are eager to offer support and advice.

Lastly, I’ve come to recognize the significance of embracing and valuing my voice. It’s easy to doubt ourselves, especially in the early stages of our journey, but it’s essential to remember that what we have to offer is unique and valuable. The world needs our contributions, and by believing in ourselves and our abilities, we can make a meaningful impact.

For those who are early in their journey, my advice would be to: cultivate openness and curiosity, to not hesitate in seeking help and understanding from others, and to embrace the importance of their own voice. Trust in the process, stay true to yourself, and never underestimate the power of asking for support when needed. Your journey is yours to navigate, and by staying true to yourself and your passions, you’ll undoubtedly find success and fulfillment along the way.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, I’m always looking for collaboration opportunities with fellow artists and thinkers. I love brainstorming and partnering with individuals from various backgrounds—musicians, poets, body painters, actors, athletes, teachers, and more. Our lives are interconnected, and creativity thrives when we embrace diverse perspectives.

If you’re interested in collaborating, feel free to reach out to me via Instagram @tanesha_payne1 or email at [email protected]. Let’s create!!

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Cristiana Salina, Brittany Lopez, Robert Michaelson, Martha Istueta

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