At Revel Streetwear, we believe that Every Body Is A Dance Body™️. As part of our monthly series, we focus on highlighting plus-sized dancers from across the world. Sharing their inspiring stories allows us to learn about them, while encouraging you to step outside of your comfort zone to pursue your dreams and goals.
What is your name?
Ruth Anna Marshae Williams
Where are you from and where do you reside?
I am from Prichard, Al but now reside in Montgomery, Al
How long have you been dancing?
I’ve been dancing since I could walk. I know a lot of people say this, but my family will reel you in. I've danced, tumbled, and demonstrated flexibility. Lol!
What has your experience been as a curvy or plus-sized dancer?
My experience as a Plus-Size dancer has always been rejection after rejection until I joined the theater at Alabama State University. I ended up getting the nickname Brickhouse from my college professor, Dr. Tonea Stewart. She gave me a confidence boost, which made me feel like I should never stop dancing. I went on to create a dance company called Eclectic Dance Company. It was the first-ever dance company at Alabama State University. It has now transitioned into a BFA dance program.
Revel Streetwear™️ was created for plus-sized women that are fearlessly unapologetic™️. What does fearlessly unapologetic mean to you?
What fearlessly and unapologetic means to me is facing your fears and stepping out of the shadows of others. When you’re passionate, you fear judgment and ridicule. We feel people should accept us by what we offer. I shared this to say, I have always been in the background with everything that I’ve created, produced, branded, choreographed, and/or designed especially with the Honeybeez. It has always been someone else’s face or name, not mine. Dr. Stewart’s words from college reminded me to never let anyone take from my work. That’s what I plan on doing from here on out while being unapologetically fearless.
When you're hanging out what song always gets you on the dance floor?
When I’m hanging out, Poison or almost any Mary J Blige song will get me on the floor.
What's your favorite dance move?
I’m not sure if I have a favorite dance move, but I haven’t quite learned how to twerk. When I do, I know for sure that would be it. Lol!
At Revel Streetwear™️ we believe that everybody is a dance body™️. We also know different body types come with different experiences, which makes the dance industry challenges. What keeps you inspired?
What’s kept me going and inspired beside my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is the naysayers. I truly believe the naysayers keep me on my toes. Also, my amazing niece Madison because she has so much life and is determined to be a replica of me. Being a positive role model is important to me. The naysayers and my niece are all the inspiration I need to keep going.
For those new to the entertainment industry or struggling within the community, what advice would you share?
The advice I would give anyone new to the entertainment industry that’s struggling is never given up, man. It’s cliché but true. Also, invest in yourself! You are the brand. Invest in classes, your unique look, and the wellness of your entire being.
Hip Hop and dance communities are sometimes synonymous with streetwear due to personal style. How does your streetwear style align with your preferred style of dance?
My streetwear replicates more of my personality, not my dance style. Truth be told I went from gymnastics to street dance, majorette, African cultural dance, jazz, ballet, to hip hop.
Want to follow Anna's journey, you could check her out on IG at anna_marshae.
1 comment
Awesome! I like this a lot. Great coach and mentor