Blackwood, Roxanne
Born and raised in Nebraska, I discovered my love for dance at the age of three. Dance became a passion that shaped much of my life, and I continued dancing throughout my school years.
I attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL), where I began choreographing and performing in local fashion shows and collegiate dance teams. These experiences strengthened my love for performing and choreography and inspired me to continue pursuing dance.
My journey eventually brought me to the Pikes Peak region, where I built my home, raised my family, and developed my career in Colorado Springs. I spent 27 years teaching dance at two local studios, sharing my love of dance with generations of students. During those years, I was also fortunate to share that experience with my two sons, including them in dance classes and performances and making dance an important part of our family life.
As a dance instructor, I started competition groups and choreographed routines for group, solo, and duet competitions. I also spent three summers studying dance in New York City, taking classes from instructors who worked with popular recording artists and creators of Broadway productions. These experiences expanded my knowledge and influenced both my choreography and teaching.
In addition to my work in dance, I worked as a paraprofessional in local schools, supporting students with special needs as well as elementary students who needed additional assistance. Working with children strengthened my appreciation for their individuality, creativity, determination, and capacity to learn.
Today, I am bringing together my lifelong experiences in dance, teaching, working with children, and raising a family through a new creative journey as a children's book author. Through my stories, I hope to share the joy of dance with young readers while encouraging them to follow their dreams, believe in themselves, and discover the confidence that comes from trying something new.
The Pikes Peak region has been the place where I raised my family, spent 27 years teaching dance, worked with local children, and began my journey as an author. I am proud to call this community home and grateful for the opportunity to share a part of my life's journey through children's literature.
