Yorktown Arts Spotlight

Riley Grieve finds joy and meaning in every step

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Dancing her entire life, Yorktown High School senior Riley Grieve has fallen in love with an art she can’t imagine living without. Nicole Tolli, the high school’s dance company advisor, recalled one moment that made Grieve a standout—a speech she gave at the end of the final showcase.

“She poured her heart out and explained what DCo meant to her, and I was so proud of her,” Tolli said. “It’s hard to do public speaking to begin with, but she was amazing.”

Yorktown News caught up with Grieve, who shared her passion and how dance will never leave her.

When did your interest in dance begin? My interest in dance began when I was very young, at the age of 2. Growing up, I fell in love with dancing more and more as time went on. I realized this was something I had a strong passion for and put my heart into every dance I performed. 

Do you plan to continue to dance after high school? Yes, after high school I plan on going to college and joining a dance team. I don’t think I could imagine my life without dance and I can’t wait to continue my journey.

Who inspires you? I am inspired by dancers who are passionate, hardworking, and confident in their individuality. Watching professional dancers and choreographers motivates me to push myself and continue growing. I’m especially inspired by those who use dance as a way to express emotion and tell a story.

What makes dance challenging? Dancing can be challenging both physically and mentally. It requires strength, flexibility, and endurance, along with constant practice and discipline. It can also be mentally challenging to stay confident, motivated, and focused, especially when learning difficult choreography or striving to improve.

How do you spend your free time? I love to spend my free time in many different ways. Some things I enjoy doing are hanging out with my friends, going to the gym, playing field hockey, flag football, and shopping.

What are the top five songs on your playlist? “Baby Steps” by Olivia Dean , “When We Were Young” by Adele, “6 Months Later” by Megan Moroney, “Missed Call” by Treaty Oak Revival , “Tit for Tat” byTate McRae.

Yorktown Arts Spotlight, Yorktown High School, Yorktown Central School District

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