Like many young dancers, I have a dream to dance in the world of musical theatre. However, I've encountered an unexpected barrier. Most shows, such as Broadway and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, require performers to wear the shoes provided by the show, usually LaDuca dance shoes, which is a brand without a single vegan option.

LaDuca shoes are cherished for their superior quality and comfort, favored by performers all over the world. However, they are traditionally made using leather, which poses a moral conflict for those of us who lead vegan lifestyles. Choosing not to compromise our values for our dreams isn't easy, and frankly, shouldn't be a choice we are forced to make.

I am lucky enough to have been able to get custom shoes in New York that are basically exact replicas of LaDuca shoes. However, these are not accessible to most people because either they don't live in a city like New York, or commonly would not be in a financially secure enough place to be spending the extra charge for custom shoes. And even for those of us with these shoes, most shows still would not allow us to wear our own shoes. We would have to wear what is provided. And until a vegan option is provided, we are optionless.

For years, Broadway and the Rockettes have set incredible, progressive precedents in entertainment by embracing diversity in performers and storytelling. However, inclusivity should extend beyond representation on stage; it should reach into the wardrobes of performers backstage as well. It's time for the entertainment industry to evolve further and set a new inclusive standard by providing a vegan shoe option for performers.

I specifically point this out for Broadway and the Rockettes because they are big names with so much influence in the world of theatre and dance but really I think this should extend to every production. 

I propose that LaDuca develops a high-quality vegan shoe that matches their renowned standards of design, comfort, and appearance. Given the technological advancements in sustainable fashion and materials available today, creating a vegan version of this iconic shoe is not only feasible but also a step forward in the inclusive evolution of the performing arts.

By signing this petition, you lend your support to a growing community of artists and fans who believe in a more inclusive future. You champion the change that helps performers honor both their art and their ethics. Please sign the petition to support the creation of a vegan LaDuca dance shoe and push for its availability as a standard option for all shows. Let’s transform the world of performing arts, one shoe at a time.