Jenny Battenberg’s journey from rural Missouri to becoming a recognized dancer,
choreographer, and actress is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and
passion for the arts. Growing up in Villa Ridge, Missouri, Jenny had few conventional
opportunities for artistic growth. Instead, her surroundings – where her closest neighbors were
often livestock – offered an unconventional yet inspiring backdrop. On an EncoreNOW podcast
episode, Jenny shared her path, filled with pivotal moments, unexpected breaks, and the sheer
determination to break free from small-town expectations and pursue her dream.

Early Beginnings in Dance

Jenny’s love for dance began at the age of six with tap, jazz, and ballet classes. While these
were initially hobbies, her real passion ignited at 15 when she discovered hip-hop. “I loved the
grounding of hip-hop, the music, and dancing to Janet Jackson. It just made sense to me,” she
reflected. By her senior year, Jenny was not only learning but assisting her teacher and soon
after graduating, began teaching dance classes herself. This experience laid the foundation for
her love of choreography and sparked a drive to deepen her skills in dance.

Breaking Free from Small-Town Expectations

Small-town life can often come with preset expectations. Many people around her assumed her
future would involve community college, marriage, and settling down. However, Jenny felt
destined for something more. “I wasn’t afraid to step out of that mold,” she shared, determined
to carve out a different path. Without a clear direction initially, Jenny worked as a waitress and
taught dance, unsure of her next steps until a life-changing opportunity arrived.

A Leap of Faith: Finding Direction and Grit at Lindenwood University

A significant turning point came when her dance studio owner encouraged her to apply for a
dance scholarship at Lindenwood University. Skeptical of her chances, Jenny auditioned with
unconventional music by Missy Elliott, a sharp contrast to the modern and jazz routines other
applicants presented. To her surprise, she was accepted, marking the beginning of her formal
dance education. Her time at Lindenwood presented new challenges, particularly around the
pressure to conform to certain body standards in the dance world. Though this pressure affected
her, she emerged stronger, gaining a more profound understanding of her body and art.

Persistence and Passion in the Face of Rejection

One of Jenny’s most influential mentors was Paula David, a professional dancer and founder of
the Big Muddy Dance Company. Paula’s precision and dedication inspired Jenny, leading her to
audition for Paula’s company. When she wasn’t accepted on her first attempt, Jenny was
crushed but undeterred. She continued training, honing her skills, and, in time, was invited to
join the company. Reflecting on this journey, she emphasized the importance of resilience,
saying, “It’s all I ever wanted.”

Embracing the Chaos of an Artist’s Life

Jenny’s journey, much like her choreography, has not followed a linear path. Financial instability
and moments of self-doubt have accompanied her artistic life. “I have no freaking idea how I’m
gonna pay my rent in August,” she recalled from a time when the unpredictability of an artistic
career loomed large. Yet, Jenny found joy in the very chaos that her profession brings, seeing
each challenge as an opportunity for growth. She acknowledges that while the creative life is
unpredictable, it is filled with moments of unexpected success and fulfillment.

A Legacy of Authenticity and Creative Expression

Through all her experiences, Jenny remains dedicated to her authenticity. In a world often
pressuring artists into predefined roles, she values her unique voice in the dance community.
Her journey underscores the significance of mental well-being, and she is an advocate for
therapy, recognizing the mental challenges that creatives often face.

From her small-town roots to the stages of St. Louis and beyond, Jenny Battenberg’s story is a
powerful example of what’s possible when one chooses to pursue their dreams, regardless of
the odds. Her path from teaching hip-hop to becoming a professional choreographer serves as
an inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere, proving that creative fulfillment is achievable for
those who dare to follow their passion.