Dancer Spotlight: Laura Anawaty
This week on Stepping Forward, we are thrilled to shine our Dancer Spotlight on Laura Anawaty.
At BOOT Dance Project, we are proud to amplify the voices of Texas-based artists who are not only incredibly talented but also deeply committed to their communities. Laura’s journey is a story of returning home with purpose. It’s about building on the foundation laid in her youth to inspire the next generation and shape the future of Houston’s dance scene.
From early training in local studios to performing on college stages and now teaching and creating in her hometown, Laura reminds us that coming home doesn’t mean stepping back. It means giving back.
Let’s get to Know Laura!
Getting to Know Laura
Laura’s dance story began at just five years old when her mom signed her up for classes at Robins Dance Studio. What started as a fun after-school activity quickly evolved into a lifelong passion. By middle school, Laura was already training daily after being accepted into Meyerland Performing and Visual Arts School. She later attended Kinder HSPVA, an experience that would lay the groundwork for her future in dance.
“Seeing dancers ahead of me go on to college and professional careers made it feel real, like it was something I could actually do. The teachers at HSPVA pushed me both technically and artistically. That support helped me realize dance wasn’t just something I loved — it was something I could pursue as a future.”
Laura went on to attend the University of Texas at Austin, earning a BFA in Dance with a minor in Arts Management and Administration. She credits UT with expanding her view of what a career in dance could look like, not just as a performer but as a leader and creative professional within the arts world.
“I originally planned to just perform after graduation, but UT opened my eyes to the entire ecosystem of the dance world. That’s when I added Arts Administration as a minor. I fell in love with the work behind the scenes that makes everything possible.”
Returning to Houston
After graduating in 2024, Laura made the decision to return to Houston. It was a choice driven by her connection to the city and the community that raised her.
“I had built a lot of relationships in Austin, but Houston has always been home. I wanted to come back not just to live here, but to grow here. To be an artist in the community that shaped me.”
Now, Laura sees the Houston dance scene from a new perspective — not as a student, but as a working professional. And the shift has been eye-opening.
“As a student, you’re focused on training. But now I see how important the community is, how we’re all connected by our shared passion. It’s more than just taking class. It’s about supporting each other, collaborating, and creating spaces where dancers can thrive.”
And she’s doing just that through teaching.
“Teaching fulfills a different part of me. It’s about mentorship and impact. Watching young dancers grow in confidence and artistry is incredibly rewarding. Even though I’m the one teaching, I learn from them all the time. They push me to stay curious and open.”
In her classes, Laura leads with compassion and encouragement, creating a space where dancers feel seen and supported.
“I want dancers to feel safe to explore their potential. One of my favorite quotes is, ‘Admire someone else’s beauty without questioning your own.’ That’s something I try to instill in every dancer I work with.”
Working with BOOT Dance Project
Laura first joined BOOT Dance Project to perform DPRTRE7 at {254}DANCEFEST in Waco. It was a duet choreographed by Artistic Director Jessie Ferguson. The experience was both challenging and deeply fulfilling.
“The process of building a duet required so much trust and communication. It pushed me to be present and honest in the work. Getting to share that with an audience at {254}DANCEFEST made it all the more meaningful.”
For Laura, BOOT is more than just a performance opportunity. It’s a movement.
“It’s refreshing to be part of a company that’s dedicated to Texas-based artists. BOOT proves that you don’t have to leave the state to do meaningful, professional work. That kind of mission is rare and incredibly needed.”
Looking Ahead
So what’s next for Laura?
She plans to continue performing, teaching, and eventually expanding her choreographic voice. But above all, she wants to keep building community and creating opportunities for young dancers, especially in Houston.
“My goal is to keep showing up — for my students, for my peers, and for the dance scene here in Texas. I want to be someone dancers can look to and say, ‘If she can do it here, I can too.’”
Where to Follow Laura
Want to see what Laura is up to next? Follow her on Instagram @lauragrace.16 and stay connected as she continues to inspire the next generation of dancers across Texas.
Interested in supporting dancers like Laura? Consider donating to BOOT Dance Project or attending one of our upcoming performances. Your support helps us keep talented Texas artists creating, thriving, and staying right here in the communities they call home.
