Sharon Holder’s formal dance training started in 1971. At the age of 14, she became a member of the Eubie Blake Theatrical and Dance Company. Under the leadership of choreographer Nina Garland, Sharon studied the Katherine Dunham technique. Her dedicated participation in this company led to memorable annual performances in the Metropolitan Opera’s “Aida” for several seasons. Sharon continued to study dance with Charles Moore from 1974 to 1978, as well as learn from Thelma Hill and Pepsi Bethel at the renowned Clark Center for the Performing Arts in New York City.

Sharon began taking our modern jazz classes at the 3rd Avenue YWCA in Brooklyn, and actively performed with MoJazz Dance from 2001-2006, later returning for the 2019-2020 season. Over the years, she happily gathers with the Sistahs for classes, field trips and company celebrations!

Sharon entered the work world in the field of housing and urban development when she returned from college. Initially, she participated in a grassroots anti-redlining organization known as New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG). She obtained her real estate license and worked for a Black female owned real estate company in Brooklyn. Sharon became a member of the Bedford Stuyvesant Real Estate Board and also worked for the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation. For 40 years, Sharon has held real estate related government and quasi-government positions, such as Associate Urban Planner, Mortgage Loan Officer, Deputy Director of Commercial Leasing, Associate Property Manager, Asset Manager, Senior Property Manager and Associate NYS Real Estate Instructor.

Sharon is now retired, with a great deal of pride knowing that she made a positive impact in many people’s lives. Her greatest supporters and cheerleaders are her son, Major Julian Holder, Marcia Ceaser, along with extended family and friends. Sharon was born and raised and still resides in Brooklyn. “Dance has been my great escape from daily challenges. Dancing brings uplifting highlights to all stages of life. So, let’s keep on dancing.”