PONY will always be a product of two things: the city that made us, and the people who believe in us.
Whilst New York has changed a lot since we first came up, the energy that powered its evolution hasn’t, nor have the people. Every day we see the vitality of our communities in the grit and personality of real talent out there doing their own thing.
Emilie Brooklyn, a professional dancer based in NYC, channels her passion for spreading love, positivity, and cultural connection through her art. With a career spanning choreographing and performing in music videos, starring in musical theater, leading workshops worldwide, and competing in global dance battles, Emilie brings energy and authenticity to everything she does. For her, movement isn’t just dance—it’s a way of life driven by passion and resilience.
PRODUCT OF_________
Your journey as a creative and single mother is incredibly inspiring. How has movement, in all its forms, become a part of who you are and the way you approach life and creativity?
For me it’s important to stay focused on the goal and tune out the noise. I had to change a lot of things about myself to become this version. Bad habits, friends, even some family members. Things and people that I can still love but from afar. Sometimes you just have to lock in and be selfish to reach your ultimate goals.
Coming from Denmark and now thriving in New York, what does it mean for you to create a space for yourself here, especially as an artist in the world of street dance?
To be honest My main thing has always been to remain myself authentically and respect everybody around me. I have been met with a lot of adversity since moving to NYC especially in the street dance world. But I knew I was being myself and always have been myself. I haven’t tried to fake anything that wasn’t me. So remaining true to myself even when nobody understood it or applauded it.
As a "product of motion," how do you see dance connecting different aspects of your life, from your time in the studio to being a mom and navigating the city?
Dance has always been my therapy. Whether it’s putting on my favorite song and dancing once I put my son to sleep at night, creating content for TikTok, taking dance classes, going to auditions. It’s all a part of the movement. It you keep moving eventually you will land in the right places.
Street dance is such a key part of your story. What drew you to this style originally, and how has it influenced the way you express yourself creatively?
I started with breakdance when I was 4 years old and have been completely wrapped in the culture since then. From taking classes to studying the culture, watching documentaries of the birth of hip-hop, travelling the world to find the right knowledge and learn from the OG’s of the culture. It’s just always been my passion.
How do you hope your story – as a creative, immigrant, and mother – inspires others who are also working to make their mark in the world of dance and creative expression?
My dream is to inspire people to be themselves NO MATTER WHAT anybody says. Even when it’s “not cool” or “viral” but remaining true to your authentic self as a person and a creative. And thrive within that. Nobody is you, and you are special because God made you this way. I want everybody to win. Even if they don’t wish me well. I pray for everybody.