The Healing Power of Dance: A Mother’s Gift & Broadway Story

Broadway performer Afra Hines credits her mother with igniting a lifelong passion for dance, a gift that has shaped her career and continues to inspire her both on and off stage. Hines, who has appeared in 12 Broadway productions, including a run in Wicked, reflects on the pivotal role her mother played in nurturing her artistic pursuits, starting with early tap lessons and culminating in unwavering support through professional milestones.

Hines recalls being carried into a dance studio as a toddler, around the age of three or four, driven by a desire to learn tap dance. Her mother, recognizing and embracing this budding interest, enrolled her in classes despite the studio’s initial reservations about her age. This early encouragement set the stage for a journey that would lead Hines to the Professional Performing Arts School in Latest York City.

A Foundation in New York City

The Professional Performing Arts School (PPAS), a modest, personalized public school located on 48th Street in Manhattan, provided Hines with a rigorous academic curriculum alongside specialized training in the performing arts. PPAS offers programs in dance, drama, musical theater, vocal performance, and film for students in grades 6-12. According to the school’s website, PPAS boasts a 100% graduation rate and currently enrolls 535 students. Hines’ enrollment there, facilitated by her mother’s support, proved to be a crucial step in her development as an artist. The school’s focus on both artistic and academic excellence prepared her for the demands of a professional career.

The school’s commitment to fostering talent is evident in recent successes, including accolades at the Teen Indie Awards for its film program. PPAS also has strong ties to the broader performing arts community; Alicia Keys, a graduate of the school, recently returned to PPAS to share her experiences and reflect on her own musical journey, particularly the influence of her time there on her musical, HELL’S KITCHEN.

From Chicago to Broadway and Beyond

Hines’ mother’s support continued as she transitioned into her professional life. She recalls her mother assisting with a move to Chicago to join the cast of Wicked, a landmark moment in her career. Now, in 2026, Hines’ mother has witnessed every one of her twelve Broadway shows, along with countless other performances. This consistent presence and encouragement have been invaluable throughout her career.

Hines describes dance as more than just a profession; it’s a source of solace, joy, and profound connection. She articulates the feeling of dancing as a visceral experience – “like sunlight hitting my cheek,” “like floating on a river,” and “like a warm bath.” For Hines, dance is a powerful force that allows her to heal, connect with community, and express her freedom and responsibility as an artist. She sees it as a way to honor traditions, tell new stories, and engage in a dialogue with the universe.

The Gift Continues: Passing on the Passion

Now a mother herself, Hines is eager to share the gift of dance with her five-year-old daughter, who frequently requests “dance parties” at home. Hines recognizes the profound impact her mother had on her life and hopes to provide her daughter with the same encouragement and support. She wants to instill in her daughter the same love for dance that has been a constant source of strength and inspiration throughout her own life.

PPAS: A Pathway to Professional Success

The Professional Performing Arts School continues to serve as a vital training ground for aspiring performers. The Ailey School partners with PPAS to offer a combined academic and arts education, requiring students to meet both dance and academic criteria and to be residents of New York City. The audition process is managed through the NYC Department of Education’s High School Admissions process. The school’s emphasis on holistic development prepares students not only for careers in the performing arts but also for success in higher education, with graduates attending top colleges and universities.

Upcoming Events and Community Support

PPAS is currently presenting performances of Dracula on March 27th and 28th in the PPAS Auditorium. The school is also preparing for its annual Benefit Bash on May 3rd at The Fleur Room – Moxy Hotel Chelsea, a fundraising event to support the arts experience for all PPAS students. Recent alumni, like Chance Smith, a student at PPAS, are making their mark in the industry.

Hines’ story underscores the importance of early encouragement and unwavering support in nurturing artistic talent. Her mother’s gift of dance has not only shaped her career but has also enriched her life in countless ways, a legacy she now hopes to pass on to her own daughter.