Writing/Essay/Journal
Lise Houlton carries on her mother’s legacy by expecting the best from young dancers. Write about a time when, by expecting the best from you, someone inspired you to achieve more than you thought was possible. What were you able to accomplish?

Activity
The Minnesota Dance Theatre has presented The Nutcracker since 1964. Lise recognizes the importance of tradition, but she also knows it’s essential to create new work in order to keep dance fresh and relevant. The next time you participate in a family or cultural tradition, put a new spin on the usual activities. Was it enriching to bring a fresh perspective to tradition?