Do you have what it takes to make the cut?
Are you tough enough to outshine a room full of amazing performers?
Every professional dancer has to overcome these doubts before, during and after auditions to survive in our business. My focus, instilled -- programmed -- in me by dance teachers over many years, is to own every dance step of a number. To perfect a routine.
I practically grew up in a dance studio and, by the age of six, dance was everything to me. And I loved it, from the early Saturday mornings to the long, everlasting school nights. Dance consumed me, even at the times when I wasn't as great and constantly received the same notes.
Like many other dancers from my studio, Dance Attack, as an 18-year-old girl I left Miami, Florida, for Hollywood, California, with hopes of being in the next huge commercial or performing on stage next to the greatest musical acts.
I put in long, hard days, taking multiple dance classes. I tried to perfect as many dance styles as possible. I'm a contortionist by trade, but over my 25 years of dancing I have gained the ability to tap dance, hip hop, aerial, salsa, mamba, ballet ... and the list goes on.
That's what I believe it takes to be successful in this industry. Don't get me wrong, there are great dancers who are known for one style. But just as there are many different types of music that I love to move to and many different creative possibilities, I choose to stack my deck. It's a grind to master a number to a point where one’s movements are truly captivating.
I never gave up -- and eventually I persevered.
Over my years of dance I have performed next to the greats, including J. Lo and Lady Gaga; on live TV; and at awards shows like the Grammys and the AMAs. I have been a part of world tours. I have even danced with Cirque du Soleil. Electrifying experiences and unforgettable, lifetime moments like these were so rewarding that I continue to push and be better than yesterday.
I wouldn’t change my career for anything. I’m so lucky to be able to do what I love for a living. Making the cut is all up to you. It takes putting in the hours to be better than yesterday and outshine your peers. To all my fellow dancers and performers, I love being a part of this beautiful industry with you.
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