From performing at pep rallies to touring with Jason Derulo, Danielle Norton has transformed her passions into a successful career as a professional dancer and wardrobe stylist. As a proud alumni of 2011, she has taken all of her experiences in Charter to help formulate and mold her amazing journey.
Norton was highly involved in extracurricular activities while attending PPCHS, balancing her academics with an active role in the school’s athletic and dance programs. “I was a varsity soccer player, Dance Team member freshman and sophomore year, and then captain of the PPCHS Dance Team my junior and senior year,” she recollects. This early leadership experience helped shape her future, blending her love for movement and creative expression.
After graduating, Norton soon pursued her passion for dance professionally in many companies, including working for Hip Hop Hooray, which is an after-school dance program in Pines Charter elementary and middle schools. As an instructor, she was able to build connections with students while pursuing her passion for dance. Many got to work with her one-on-one through the program, including current students and recent alumni at PPCHS.
“During my first year of Hip Hop [Hooray], she [Norton] moved me front and center, which was a huge boost in confidence.” PPCHS sophomore Morgan Bear recalls taking dance classes with “Ms. Dani.” “That moment is something I still remember today and is probably what made me continue dancing and expanded my love for it,” Morgan continued to dance for Hip Hop Hooray until her 8th Grade year when the cut-off age was issued and danced professionally outside of school till this day.
With a solemn goodbye, she left the company and moved to LA, which led her to incredible opportunities, such as performing on major stages and working with high-profile artists like Gwen Stefani and Maluma. As a wardrobe stylist, she combines her artistic skills to ensure performers look their best and feel confident on stage. “It is rewarding because I use my creative skills and dance skills in the job,” she explains, “I know what looks and feels good on stage, and I’m able to make the artist and dance artist feel their best.”
Though the work can be demanding and exhausting at times, Norton feels a strong sense of purpose in her career. “All in all, I feel called to do it,” she claims.
One of Norton’s career highlights was performing at the BET Awards alongside Megan Thee Stallion. She describes the experience as humbling, highlighting the immense teamwork and effort behind large-scale productions. “So much goes into big productions, and us dancers are a huge part of that,” she shares, offering a glimpse into the often unseen dedication behind the glamor.
Danielle Norton’s journey from a PPCHS student to a thriving professional in the entertainment industry is a powerful testament to what can be achieved through ambition and dedication. Her success story serves as an inspiration for current students, showing that with a clear vision, hard work, and perseverance, they too can turn their dreams into reality.
