Welcome to SJP Esquire Speaks
THE DANCE OF LIFE...
"The journey between who you once were, and who you are now becoming, is where the DANCE OF LIFE really takes place."
~Barbara De Angelis
Sometimes I forget how blessed I am to have the gift of dance, especially the next day when my body reminds me that it is gracefully “maturing” (pun intended)”. What an extraordinary gift to be able to take a journey with my body that releases emotion and connects with others in moments that are so precious but fleeting… a moment in time with “strangers” who for that brief moment intersect in a way that is so beautiful, spirit filling, and intimate. What a gift !!! I am grateful, beyond grateful that a young college student, who was called “Flip” by some in high school, because she spent her childhood as a gymnast, stumbled upon her love and passion for dance in the most uncommon and unexpected way. To make some extra money for weekend escapades with friends and to not have to lean on her parents for anything else, she saw a posting in the college newspaper and drove out to a dance studio who was in search of an acro teacher. With that simple and innocent act of seeking a part-time job, her world opened up and her journey began...
A journey that still blows my mind, even after almost 30 years of falling in LOVE with expressing what is contained in the inner most parts of myself through dance. At times I forget how beautiful it is to just get lost in the moment, lost in each step, each note, each word surrounded by those who also share the same “super power”. My hope is that everyone can find their “IT” that makes them feel the same way!! Don’t ever stop searching for "IT"... for your life will never ever be the same, because sometimes your purpose shows up in the most unexpected places and times, but that is where
the DANCE of life truly begins…
"Much Is Given, Much Is Required"
Sonia James Pennington’s dynamic journey provides a unique backdrop for real conversations about living on purpose by owning who you are unapologetically and unequivocally, which births opportunity creation. She has a gift of being a catalyst of change by pouring into others with sincerity and truth much in the same way her art touches the hearts, minds and spirits of those viewing her work, never leaving them the same after. Her energy and thoughtfulness allows for insight and connection that motivates from a desire to fully embrace the adage “much is given, much is required”, which drives her to honor her influence and impact by never passing up an opportunity to pour into those whose paths cross hers. Whether in person, on large or small stages, or through her artistic platforms or speaking engagements, Sonia James Pennington’s natural ability inspires and empowers individuals to “dance their own dance” on “unimaginable stages” that only they envision and then manifest. Her positivity is infectious, and thus, she is committed to using her gifts and talents courageously, lovingly, powerfully and boldly because she is “THAT WHICH CONNECTS”.
Let Me Introduce Myself...
Sonia James Pennington, Esquire is a highly creative arts & entertainment entrepreneur with twenty-five years of experience owning, operating and managing for-profit and not-for-profit arts organizations, while successfully utilizing her lengthy legal and business administration experience to create innovative platforms of opportunity.
Her business endeavors include National Dance Showcase, a talent competition with its main objectives of encouraging the growth of young talent and providing performance opportunities in a competitive environment with constructive feedback and professional critiques; Artists In Motion Performing Arts Center, a dance studio mentoring, teaching and guiding young dancers ages 3-18; Introspective Movement Project, a contemporary jazz dance company in its ninth touring season, whose sole purpose is defying limitations and restrictions placed on movement, while inspiring soul inspired self-exploration. Further, THAT WHICH CONNECTS, Camden’s Festival of Dance, is her passion project, which founded as a forum for established and emerging choreographers to come together to present works that further bolster the strong arts community in and surrounding the City of Camden. Sonia is also intrinsically involved in the managing and operating the Camden Lunchbox, a quick serve lunch kiosk, and Camden Arts Yard, an outdoor beer garden.
In 2020, Sonia added director, producer and filmmaker to her repertoire with the premier of “Herstory in 12 Bars”, a mixed media historical film created in the likeness of Africa's ancestral Griots with a modern twist. It is a journey from Africa to the present day through the unspoken stories of Black Women, illuminated by music, poetry, spoken word and dance.Each piece depicts an era of history that significantly illustrates the juxtaposition of struggle and triumph told in a way that has not been experienced by most. The stories of individual women are woven in a historical tapestry of important moments that reflect the undeniable story of Black women that has shaped this country. With each of these endeavors, Sonia James Pennington has proven that creativity and imagination are essential tools for success.
Because of her dedication to working with young artists and creating innovative, cutting edge, and unique opportunities in the Arts, Sonia James Pennington, Esquire has been recognized for her contributions to the Arts and received several awards for community engagement. She also serves on the Executive Board of Dance New Jersey as Treasurer, and is an active member of Women Elevating Women, The Society Incorporated-Supporting The Arts, and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
My Services
My approach is to plant seeds of inspiration that ignites a personal journey of introspective self-exploration driven by a desire to live a purpose-driven life. Sparking that inner light and flame is always my hope. I am blessed to be an encourager and to have a natural spirit for uplifting and serving. I am passionate about using my gifts and talents to lovingly, sacrificially, powerfully and boldly share a spirit of courage and strength with those who need direction, guidance and inspiration.
I am available for speaking engagements, particularly podcasts, conferences, schools and colleges, and professional and personal development seminars.
For further inquiry...
Looking forward to hearing from you...
Availability provided upon request.
SJP Esquire Speaks
