Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jessie Ferguson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jessie, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I think my work ethic comes from both my family and my creative process. My newest work, FORGE, actually draws from my Scottish heritage and my family’s journey of moving to America. It’s about resilience, rebuilding, and shaping something strong out of struggle. That idea really mirrors how I approach work.
Growing up, I saw the people around me, especially my parents, put in the kind of effort that was consistent. They showed up every day and always put their best foot forward, and that’s something I carry into my dance practice and into BOOT Dance Project.
When I’m creating, I try to forge ahead even when it’s uncomfortable, trusting that the repetition, over time, is what builds something meaningful.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a choreographer, performer, and the founder of BOOT Dance Project, a Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to uplifting Texas dance artists and audiences. Our mission is to build opportunities for outstanding Texas dancers through performances, workshops, and community programs that make dance more accessible and sustainable.
What excites me most about this work is seeing how much talent exists right here in Texas and creating spaces where those artists can thrive without feeling like they have to leave to succeed. Whether it’s through our annual Break-In Dance Fest, our BOOT Camp intensives, or smaller creative labs, every program is designed to connect artists, audiences, and opportunities in a real, meaningful way
Looking ahead, I’m focused on expanding BOOT’s reach across Texas, offering more paid opportunities for local dancers, and building a stronger statewide network of artists. I truly believe Texas has the potential to become a national hub for contemporary dance — and I want to help make that happen.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I think the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been resilience, curiosity, and community.
Resilience has shown up in every chapter of my life, from college to starting a nonprofit. In dance, things rarely go exactly as planned, and learning to adapt rather than give up has made all the difference.
Curiosity keeps my work alive. Whether I’m choreographing, teaching, or building BOOT Dance Project, I try to stay open to new ideas and new ways of working. The moment you stop being curious, your art stops growing.
And community is the heart of everything I do. Nothing I’ve built has been done alone. Surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision and investing back into that community makes the work more meaningful and sustainable.
Build your resilience by showing up even when it’s hard, feed your curiosity by asking questions and saying yes to learning opportunities, and nurture your community because those relationships will carry you farther than you can imagine.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely. Collaboration is at the core of what I do. Through BOOT Dance Project, we are always looking to connect with Texas-based dancers, choreographers, educators, and organizations who share a passion for building a stronger, more connected dance community.
I also love partnering with local businesses, venues, and brands that want to support the arts, whether that’s through events, sponsorships, or cross-community collaborations.
If you’re reading this and want to get involved, I’d love to hear from you. You can connect with me through our website at bootdanceproject.org.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bootdanceproject.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bootdanceproject/
Image Credits
Allison Canales – Two Twenty Two Media
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