It is always heartening to read about our own people excelling while doing what they love.

Born and raised in The Cayman Islands, Melisha McField wears several hats. She is an adoring mother to three beautiful children, a dancer, choreographer, teacher, and businessowner.

Melisha notes that her passion for dancing started at an incredibly young age (nine), as she has always enjoyed dancing.

Her desire to dance grew stronger throughout her teenage years, which confirmed to her that she wanted to pursue it as a career.

She enrolled at the School of Dance at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (honours) in Dance and Choreography.

While in Jamaica, she danced and performed with L’acadco: A United Caribbean Dance Force, one of the top dance companies in the island. She served as their Rehearsal Director for three years. 

Melisha returned home in 2011 and took the role of classroom teacher and dance instructor, before actively pursuing her dream to begin her own company.

In 2017, she started Dreamchasers Cayman.

Yello caught up with Melisha, who dished about her passion for dancing, navigating covid-19 and what she hopes her company will achieve going forward.

What made you want to pursue dance professionally?

My love for dance made me decide to pursue it as a profession. Researching, seeing, and knowing that it can be a career and not just a hobby made me want to pursue it more. I always saw myself on stage. I know now that my purpose and passion run deeper. I love that I get to educate and encourage younger dancers.

Dance has changed my life. It made me travel to some countries that I would not have thought about visiting on my own.

What areas of dance are you formally trained in?

I am trained in ballet, modern techniques such as Cunningham, Graham and L’Antech. I’m also trained in Traditional Caribbean folklores/African retentions – Kumina, Mento, Dinkimini, Landship, and Belle, to name a few.

Who are some of your dance inspirations?

My dance inspiration comes from within first. I have grown so much into my purpose that it flows naturally. I also receive frequent inspiration from my dancers. Having my dance company has been a huge blessing, which gives me inspiration daily.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy the positive impact I have on others through my love of dance. I love receiving positive messages about how I’ve changed individuals’ lives. It gives me joy to hear how they feel about being a part of Dreamchasers Cayman.

You started Dreamchasers Cayman – tell us about your company and the inspiration for starting it.

This is linked to my passion for dance. I didn’t see myself owning a dance company; just performing. However, God had greater plans for my purpose, and I give him thanks for it all.

The Company consists of a Kids-Junior Dance Company and Senior Dance Company.

We offer different levels of dance training from beginner to advance. Classes consist of a variety of styles that are highly influenced by our Caribbean folklore. We encourage quality of performance, and the artistic expression of each student. Our students are encouraged to better their technique and to find their voice through dance. Classes are open to boys and girls. 

When I started Dreamchasers Cayman, I had no doubt that it would become successful. Feeling that I was not excelling or growing where I previously worked inspired me to take that leap of faith.

What services do you offer – any awards?

We perform at cultural events, Christmas parties, birthday parties, concerts, and special events. In 2018, I was awarded the National Bronze Medal for creativity from the Cayman Islands National Cultural Foundation for my service to the community through Dreamchasers.

What was a major challenge that you encountered initially and how have you addressed it?

The biggest challenge was doubting myself and thinking I was not capable of starting a dance company. I overcame that obstacle by just going for it, trusting God and putting my fears behind me.

How do you stay motivated and updated on what’s happening in your industry? 

I stay motivated and updated by researching, following dance company pages on social media, and most importantly staying connected to my dance colleagues/friends who are in other countries.  My dancers also keep me motivated and inspired.

How has the Covid-19 pandemic impacted your business?

When the pandemic started and we had to lockdown the country, I had to immediately cancel all classes. This was extremely hard, as we were in the middle of preparing for our third annual production. We were quite excited, as it would have been a very powerful show.

Covid-19 has made me reflect and create in ways that I did not imagine. We launched our website, put together virtual choreographies, and held virtual classes. By doing all of this, I know that God has pushed me to excel despite the challenges.

Share an important (business) lesson that you are taking away from this pandemic.

The most important lesson that I have taken away is to REST when God says it’s time to REST. This pandemic has also taught me that no matter how popular our demanding your services are, you need to take time for yourself to recharge.

Do you have post-covid plans for your business?

Post-Covid, I intend to continue classes/teaching and running Dreamerschaser Cayman. Of course, I plan to do this with a new mindset and greater vision. I intend to always give more because I want us to be better recognised for our craft, passion, and love of the arts. My goal is to keep educating the community and showcasing the talents in The Cayman Islands.

What is the most important thing that you want your customers to know about your business?

The most important thing I would like customers to know is that we are passionate, professional, and committed to the craft.

Is there an upcoming promotion that you wish to highlight?

For the first time, 7^th – 23^rd July 2020, we will be doing a virtual series called “Chasing Dreams – Dance Series”. This is catered to ages nine and older, and the focus will be on alignment, legs, arms and the performing skills of being a better dancer. For more information, visit our website, or email [email protected].

What advice would you give to others who are interested in pursuing a career in dance?

In each class, I always maintain a positive outlook on life and encourage all dancers to think the same way. Dance can be a career. If it is your passion, go for it and remember to always put God first.

To connect with Melisha and the Dreamchasers Cayman team, visit their website or email [email protected]. Engage with them on Facebook and Instagram and check out their YouTube channel.