uma people: will morris

UMA People shares the stories and testimonials of UMA students and community members. There are some really special people around here! So much love and gratitude to Will Morris, for being part of the UMA magic and our first feature in this new series.

Will's DEEP HOUSE Playlist

UMA: When and how did you find UMA?
WM: Interesting story: almost 2 years ago, I wasn't into dance at the time but my YouTube algorithms lead me to the House Dance Forever series. I observed a house dance battle between Frankie J and Toyin. I was so moved by the exchange that I googled local house dance classes and to my surprise UMA popped up right around the corner from my job.  I had tried finding house classes a few years ago but came up short. I didn't believe it was so close. I snuck out of work to check it out and I ran into Vince who welcomed me to attend class that day. I only had boots with me so I ran to the store and bought the cheapest pair of Vans I could find. The rest was history. 

UMA: How often do you come to UMA and what classes you feel most connected to?
WM: I try to come to class at least 4 days a week. I am most connected to the house dance classes but I also enjoy all of Ron's Movement Classes, Salsa, Afro-Cuban Dance and Yoga. I feel that all of the other classes at UMA complement each other. For example, Ron's Movement Class will always force you to extend the body outside of your comfort zone which goes well with every class that I’ve experienced on the UMA schedule. Lelani’s Afro-Cuban teaches distinct isolation, while yoga promotes flexibility and a unique mind-body connection. All of these skills become complimentary parts of my movement growth and journey.  But don’t get me wrong, I love me some house. That shit resonates with my soul.

UMA: What do you do when you're not at UMA? 
WM: I work as an Electrical Engineer. My other hobbies include, yoga, capoeira, meditation, video games, reading/audiobooks, writing, tarot card readings (and other holistic spiritual practices), studying French, listening to podcasts, and community service when the opportunity arises. 

UMA: How has dancing at UMA shifted or changed how you see yourself and your place in the world?
WM: UMA is something like an adult playground. Dancing at UMA has changed my understanding of communication and freedom. It's truly special to come into such a diverse space where there is virtually no judgement and everyone is there to grow in some fashion. My classmates may talk before and after class but we communicate so much more through non-verbal communication. It’s hard to explain but we learn a lot about one another through dance. We grow through one another. Liberating each other through movement.