As sophomore Toni Brayo reflects on her involvement in the fine arts up to this point, she finds memories of happiness, frustration, and hope for continuing her involvement in the future.

“I draw, paint, sculpt, dance, and participate in musical arts.” said Brayo. “Dance being my favorite.”

Brayo is of the 2019 class at Southmoreland, and aside from being near the top of her class academically, she makes time for devoting hours to bettering herself in the area of her life that truly makes her happy: her art.

“At school I participate in musical arts, theater, and monologue competitions.” said Brayo. “I display my art in school and through social media.”

The main focus of Brayo’s attention is dance and improving her technique in the many different styles she performs.

“My grandmother owns the dance studio I attend, and we are in the process of creating our own competition,” said Brayo. “I’ve been dancing since I was 2, and I’ve gained so much from it.”

Brayo keeps a tight practice schedule regardless of the fact that her grandmother and mother have always been her dance instructors.

“My dance schedule consists of Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and sometimes Saturday evenings averaging almost five hours a day.” said Brayo.

Despite her devotion to art, it is not want she wants to do with her career.

“I wouldn’t want to make it a career, but I do plan on judging dance competitions or painting in my free time.” said Brayo. “I plan to attend Pitt and maybe being a minor in dance.”

Brayo has been dancing for as long as she can remember. It has presented to her opportunities such as hosting the stars of the Pittsburgh based show Dance Moms during the Mt. Pleasant Glass Festival. This, however, is not her most cherished dance related memory.

“My most memorable dance experience would have to be the first year I competed a solo dance.” said Brayo. “I managed to win first in my division and overall for solos, as well as a special award recognizing the emotion in my solo.”

Dancing with this kind of enthusiasm does not come to those without inspiration and a love of the performing arts.

“Dance is my passion and it’s a family thing, so it’s basically in my blood,” said Brayo. “My inspiration for sharing my art comes from those such as Marilyn Manson, Kerli, my grandmother, and even Lady Gaga.”

Brayo’s talent has been recognized even by her teachers and classmates, especially English teachers Mr. John Saunders and Mrs. Jenna Hixson.

“She is a unique writer,” said Mrs. Hixson. “And she has her own unique spirit about her.”