Erin has been an avid dancer since she could walk. Throughout her youth, she studied ballet, modern, and jazz as well as hip-hop and Afro-Caribbean, being one of the first graduates of the Flower Child Performing Arts Program that became Berkshire Pulse. She has been teaching dance and gymnastics since she was a young adult as well as being a preschool teacher for the past 15 years here in the Berkshires. In her spare time she enjoys playing paintball and kayaking with her partner and snuggling her 3 cats.
Team Group: Staff
Abigail Rollins
Abigail (Abi) Rollins is an arts executive and nonprofit leader with nearly 20 years of experience
in the nonprofit performing arts sector. Her track record as a strategic thinker, creative problem-
solver, and “Jane of all trades” administrator, has enabled her to successfully manage and grow
small, founder-led arts companies into professional mid-size organizations.
Abi is originally from Athens, Ohio, where she began her dance training at an early age. She
went on to study Dance and Psychology for her undergraduate studies at Kenyon College and
earned a Master of Arts Administration degree from Boston University in 2010.
Abi moved to the Berkshires in the fall of 2019 to join Berkshire Opera Festival as Executive
Director and was elected President of the Board of Directors in 2023. Abi has been fortunate to
have worked, interned, or volunteered with many wonderful organizations throughout her career
including, Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, Lyric Stage Company of Boston, Boston
Ballet, Trisha Brown Dance Company, and Danspace Project.
Abi was first introduced to Berkshire Pulse when she started taking community classes there in
2023 following a nearly 15-year hiatus from dancing. She was immediately struck by the warmth
and encouragement she received from her teacher and the other intergenerational students in
the class which has inspired her to resume her dance journey. She is thrilled to be joining the
team at Pulse and for the opportunity to apply her skills and experience as their first Executive
Director.
Damari Taylor
Damari Taylor is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary and Special Education, driven by a passion for creating supportive, inclusive environments where children can learn and thrive. With a naturally creative spirit and a love for connecting with others, Damari brings enthusiasm, patience, and positivity to every opportunity.
Creativity has always been at the heart of who Damari is. Whether she’s baking custom desserts, painting, or exploring new craft projects, she enjoys creating meaningful experiences that bring joy to others. Her artistic mindset extends beyond hobbies and into the way she approaches learning, problem-solving, and building relationships.
Dance has also played a significant role in Damari’s life. She trained in ballet, hip hop, lyrical and majorette throughout her childhood, performing in parades, recitals, and competitions.
When she’s not studying or creating, Damari enjoys staying active through step aerobics and line dancing. She loves being part of welcoming, energetic communities and is always excited to learn something new. Whether she’s in the classroom, on the dance floor, or working on her next creative project, Damari is committed to bringing lots of personality, kindness, creativity, and a positive attitude wherever she goes.