A Letter from THE FOUNDER OF SHOWSTOPPER The year I graduated high school, 1969, was an era of miniskirts, Twiggy, bell bottoms and go-go boots. I loved the '60s! It was a time when pop culture trends focused on vibrant colors, peace, love, and rock and roll. America was ready for a change and the '60s were recognized as the rebirth of revolutionary ways to live, think, and create. '60s music was fresh and exciting. It started with the Twist and ended with Woodstock, hits from Motown, surf music and the Beatles. As a dancer, I was determined to think forward and invent new dance crazes like the trends of the time: the Stroll, the Mash Potato, the Pony, and the Watusi. Similarly, 2023 is an era of cultural growth, change, and acceptance. At age 71, I feel blessed to have experienced the cultural transitions over the past six decades and am more excited than ever about the changes ahead. I see new energy coming in dance, art, fashion, and design. As a result, my goal is to teach young dancers that they can become more than a dream; to motivate them to turn thoughts into action. Although you may be afraid of taking risks, you must be more afraid of doing nothing. It is time to create, evolve, and embrace change as new opportunity.
SPRING 2023 GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM/MAGAZINE
DANCE & LIFESTYLE
18 44
Fashion Forecast
48
6 Tips for Overcoming Pre-Performance Nerves
52
The World of Belly Dance
60
A Dancer's Guide to London
74
Travel in Style
82
Inspired Cities: Bedrooms Inspired By Iconic Spaces
History of Ballet
IN EVERY ISSUE
24 40 42 50 56 68 70
Daniel Soto Santiago Carrera Dana Heath Daire McLeod Ciara Riley Wilson Frederikke Lønberg Triple Charm
4 64 92 93 94
Editor's Letter Journey to Crystal Embarrassing Moments Crossword Horoscopes
A few of my favorite Instas from this season! Tag us @goshowstopper for a chance to be featured. FOUNDERS
Debbie & Dave Roberts EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Holly Childs CREATIVE CONSULTANT: Debbie Roberts • FASHION DIRECTOR: Angel Roberts • ASSOCIATE FASHION STYLISTS: Georgia VanNewkirk, Hazel VanNewkirk LEAD DESIGNER: Holly Childs • GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Nikki Cole • LEAD EDITORS: Nikki Cole, Veronica Good DESIGN/COPY EDITORS: Debbie Roberts, Abbey Macho, Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk, Hazel VanNewkirk PHOTOGRAPHERS: Ana Ochoa, Holly Childs, Christy Lyn Huebner, Kevin Mazur, Joaquin Brignoni, John Galvis Sayas, Ryan West, Wilfred Yuen, Olivia Tindall, C. Lee Walls Jr., Paras Griffin, Reynaud Julien, Julianne Kaye, Dalvin Adams, Vita Cooper, Anna Azarov • WRITERS: Holly Childs, Veronica Good, Christy Lyn Huebner, Taylor Quinn • DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT AND LOCATIONS: Adam Roberts, Greg Kajcienski
SHOWSTOPPER, INC. NATIONAL DIRECTOR: Debbie Roberts PRESIDENT: Dave Roberts CORPORATE MANAGING EDITOR OF SHOWSTOPPER MAGAZINE ONLINE: Veronica Good • DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT AND LEGAL AFFAIRS: Abbey Macho • DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: Richard Knox • DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND MEDIA RELATIONS: Nikki Cole • CONTROLLER: Kim Kouba • ASSISTANT CONTROLLER: Craig Goeppinger SENIOR VIDEOGRAPHER AND MEDIA PRODUCTION SPECIALIST: Earl Tyndall • EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS: Christin Sandidge, Dana Decker
EVENT PRODUCTION DIRECTOR OF EVENT OPERATIONS: Laura Button • TRAVEL DIRECTOR: Patience Wassell • PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jon Greene • TECHNICAL DIRECTORS: Jeff Cole, Jamie Holliday, Brad Bowles • SHOW DIRECTORS: Heather Bills, Bailey Rivara ASSOCIATE SHOW DIRECTORS: Katie Akers, Mackenzi Pizana PHOTOGRAPHY COORDINATOR: Jess Cranney • DIRECTOR OF LOGISTICS: James Williams • SPECIAL PROJECTS: Mike Wager SPECIAL THANKS (IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE): Imogen Cohen, Alexa Gutierrez-Sierra, KiKi Holli, Chris Locko, Aaliyah Cinello, Tatyana Joseph, Christy Lyn Huebner, Tyra Polke, Isidora Villagra, Daniel Soto, Bianca and Chiara D'Ambrosio, Ashleigh Bennett, Kylie Cantrall, Santiago Carrera, Dana Heath, Daire McLeod, Janelle Jalila Issis, Ciara Riley Wilson, Frederikke Lønberg, Triple Charm, Michael Metuakore, and Jenna Ortega.
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Photography: Provided by Dancers • Design: Nikki Cole • Photo Editing: Tyler Amaral
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Photography: Dalvin Adams, Julianne Kaye, Vita Cooper, Holly Childs, Anna Azarov,Christy Lyn Huebner • Design: Holly Childs
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Tyra Polke is a Japanese-
how “all the competitors grew
known, the meaning behind
American actor, dancer, and
close with each other as a
it is quite deep and beautiful.
entertainer who has been
family” and “it did not feel
Arigato, which means “thank
working in the industry since
competitive at all.”
you” in Japanese, “expresses
she was just 7 years old. We
an appreciation for when
sat down with her to discuss
The competitors and the
we receive positive things in
her love of performance, get
audience weren’t the only people
life,” she explained. “These
details on her big Dancing with
who got to witness Tyra’s talent,
experiences are miracles and
Myself win, and learn more
though. She got to perform in
the positive things that occur
about her Japanese heritage.
front of some very successful
feel impossible.”
entertainers, including Shakira,
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs • Styling: Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk
LOVE OF PERFORMANCE
Liza Koshy, and Nick Jonas.
Tyra shared that the cultural
“Being on the stage and being
differences in Japan extend
Tyra describes performing
complimented by the judges
to the arts as well, and when
as her “favorite thing in
made me very emotional,” she
it comes to dance, Japanese
the world.” “I want to do it
revealed, “because I could not
dancers tend to “incorporate
forever,” she revealed. “I’ve
believe that my dream was
more funk to each style.”
always loved performing in
coming true and I was actually
Whacking, for example, “is a
musicals and showcasing
dancing on stage in front of some
popular style incorporated
my emotions,” she shared.
of the biggest entertainers."
into jazz and in urban freestyle
As an actor and dancer, Tyra believes emotions are actually
battles.” But while there JAPANESE HERITAGE
the foundation for being
are certainly differences, Tyra explained that social
successful in the arts. “When
Emotions aren’t the only driving
media has allowed people
I dance, my performance is
force behind Tyra’s success, she
from all over to become
meaningless without emotion.
also credits the character traits
knowledgeable about dance
Dancing definitely helps me
emphasized in Japanese culture
styles around the world.
get in touch with my emotions,
as well as her family for her
which is so important. When
drive. “Strong discipline is applied
you are dancing you are not
to everyone when it comes to
only a dancer, but you are an
everyday habits,” she shared
Tyra dreams of starring in
artist and an actor.”
with us. “I am really proud to
the next Flashdance movie
be part of a talented and hard-
as the lead or playing Roxy
working family. I am especially
in Chicago on Broadway.
proud of my grandfather, who is
Her goals are big, but with
Tyra felt all the emotions
my role model because he came
her talent and discipline, we
when she won it all on
from a very poor background
have no doubt we’ll be seeing
Episode 1 of Dancing with
and grew up to be a company
her in one (or both!) of those
Myself. “[It] felt surreal,” she
president who everyone respects.”
roles in the future. We wish
DANCING WITH MYSELF
shared. “It ended up being
GOALS
we had space to talk more
one of my most memorable
Tyra is also fluent in Japanese,
about the incredible story and
experiences so far.” And even
which is the language her mom
heritage she shared with us
though it's a competition-
has spoken with her since she
but for now, we just have to
based show, she felt nothing
was born. We had to know
say “arigato,” Tyra. You have
but support from the other
her favorite word in Japanese,
inspired us and we can’t wait
competitors. She described
and though it’s relatively well-
to see what you do next!
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Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
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sidora Villagra spent
“The first couple of opportunities
watching,” she told us. “The
most of her childhood
I got were dancing in the
adrenaline was so real and
in her home country,
Boston Celtics halftime shows–3
unforgettable.”
Chile, before she and her
years in a row,” she told us.
family moved to Boston,
Boston seemed to have great
She also got her first solo
Massachusetts when she
opportunities, her team even
gig after moving to LA, a
was 9. While her love of
won USA Gold Medalist at Hip
commercial for Hasbro’s Lock
dance grew exponentially
Hop International in 2018. But,
Stars toys. “It felt like a dream
when she came to America,
Isidora strived for even more
come true,” she said. “I was
her interest in it started
and decided to move to Los
so nervous but so excited at
long before she made the
Angeles. “[It’s] considered one of
the same time.” Her nerves
move. “I became interested
the best cities for dancing in the
haven’t dissipated entirely
in dance back in Chile while
whole world,” she explained.
since then, but she “now feel[s]
watching YouTube videos,
so much more confident and
concerts, and music videos,”
passionate in everything. It
she shared. “The background
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs • Styling: Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk
dancers always grabbed my attention. That inspired me to start dancing!” COMING TO AMERICA
"The adrenaline was so real and unforgettable"
Isidora began professionally training in dance at 10
just comes naturally.” DANCE AS THERAPY The opportunities are not the reason Isidora loves dance. It's the feeling that it gives her when things get tough
MOVING TO LOS ANGELES
years old. “I went to two
that keeps her passion for it alive. “Dance is my therapy,”
separate dance studios, one
After moving to LA, Isidora’s
she explained. “Anytime I’m
for hip hop and a technical
talent led to even more
feeling down, it’s what I tap
one,” she explained. It was
opportunities and allowed her
into. It inspires me to keep
a lot for someone who
to train with world-renowned
going in life, reminding me
just moved to a different
choreographers. “I’d always
to never give up and push
country and was still
dreamt of learning from
through any obstacle
learning the language.
them,” she shared. After a
that comes my way.
“It was hard for me to
few months of living in LA,
I know I can do
coordinate and split my
Isidora auditioned for The Lab
anything I set
time with public school, two
Dance Company, which led
my mind and
dance studios, and extra
to her dancing on Season 1 of
energy to
workshops I took during
Game of Talents and in the Los
because I have
the night.” But her hard
Angeles Rams halftime show–
accomplished
work paid off, and soon she
her favorite gig so far. “More
the things I’ve
scored her first few gigs.
than 70,000 people were
desired before.”
"Dance is my therapy. Anytime I’m feeling down, it’s what I tap into." STAYING VERSATILE
she’s got enough to keep her
even choreographing for
busy. When she’s not dancing,
music videos performances
Isidora is roller skating, baking,
or any type of stage
posting on TikTok (to her 1 million
choreography.” She dreams
followers!), playing the piano,
of dancing in the Savage
meditating, and focusing on her
X Fenty show, the Super
mindset, specifically through
Bowl, and the Grammys.
manifestation. “Manifesting
Isidora also wants to bring
is something I love to do,” she
her knowledge of dance
revealed. “Learning how to use
back to her home country
the law of attraction makes me
and dreams of opening up
feel peaceful and have a clear
multiple dance studios all
path of what my goals are and
over South America.
figuring out how to get there. As someone who has
Focusing on good energy makes
Outside of dance, Isidora
danced all over the world,
me feel motivated daily as a
hopes to pursue acting. “I
from Chile to Boston and
person and in dance!”
do know a bit of acting but
from Boston to LA, it’s no
I want to dedicate myself
surprise that Isidora’s advice
fully to it and one day be on
to other dancers is to get out of your comfort zone. “It’s so important in order to be a versatile dancer,” she advised. As for Isidora, she’s hoping to get even further outside of her comfort zone in the near future by exploring a different genre of dance: ballroom. “I took around four dance classes
"Focusing on good energy makes me feel motivated daily as a person and in dance."
before the pandemic and I enjoyed it so much. If I go
MANIFESTING
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also love to get her driver’s license, a car, an apartment, and write a book! “It would be amazing to tell people more in-depth about my life and the experiences I’ve been through to inspire and help others!” Isidora has big goals, but also big plans to accomplish
ISIDORA'S GOALS
back to it I will make sure to dedicate my all to it.”
TV shows or movies.” She’d
them. She believes that success comes down to
As for what she’s manifesting…
“execution and staying
“Some of my goals in the near
persistent." She also
future would be to keep teaching
prioritizes passion. "Loving
in LA since choreographing and
what you do is a huge thing
While we’d love to see
teaching have been a chapter
to have a faster journey."
Isidora waltzing across a
opening up in my life recently.
We're so excited to see where
ballroom floor, for now,
I would love to be touring or
her journey brings her.
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Can you tell us a little bit about
convinced that I had something
player, musician, doctor, etc.,
yourself and your experiences
unique, so I listened to her words and
never a ballet or jazz dancer.
in the industry?
decided to give it a try. The moment
You have to be very confident
"Of course, I'm Daniel, a
I took a step into the dance studio, I
about yourself and very brave
dancer from Colombia. I have
became interested in all the magic…
to break the mold of what
been a professional dancer in
their bodies turning and jumping,
society wants from you.
Colombia since I was 13 years
and all the expressions they were
old, and since then I have
portraying in their dancing. They
In the US, I see more diversity.
been very competitive. I am
were telling tons of beautiful stories
There are lots of colleges and
used to competing in lots of
with just movement. Those girls
universities for musical theater
different competitions in the
became my idols. They were who
and performing arts, and even
United States and also I've been
I wanted to be one day. I instantly
lots of dance companies for
featured in things for dance
knew that I had found my place in
ballet. [America] has the big
like Walt Disney World and even
the world. I said to myself: ‘You are
shows on Broadway, all the
Vogue Portugal with some
going to be a dancer!’”
magic on the screens from
other amazing dancers. I've also
Hollywood, the spectacles
danced in concerts for singers in
Can you share with us what it is
from Vegas, and endless kinds
Colombia like J Balvin. Dancing
like being a dancer in Colombia?
of opportunities for dancers
has been a blessing for me since
"I wish there were more
around the country. That is
I was young!
opportunities for being a dancer
something a South American
in Colombia, or for working
kid dreams of.
Can you tell us how you first
with your art, but there is no
got started in dance?
possible way to study or work
Lately, though, a lot of dance
"I never thought when I was
professionally. For you to learn
teachers [in Colombia] have
a kid that dancing could be
all the things you need to know
been building spaces for kids
something for me. As a boy,
about dancing, you have to travel
who love dancing to encourage
they usually place us in sports,
internationally and compete. You
them to follow their dreams.
music, or even video games…
have to look for other places to
It is something very new; they
I never fit in with those kinds
find value in your art.
are starting to give dance the
Photography: John Galvis Sayas • Design: Holly Childs
of activities. I was more of
importance that it needs. I
a Disney-minded kid. I love
In Colombia, dancing is seen more as
have been lucky to be at my
sparkles, glitter, princesses, ice
a hobby or something you do in your
dance academy called Olga
skaters, etc., but I never knew
childhood if you have enough money
Lucia Dance Studio, directed
where my spot was in life until
to invest in the arts. Unfortunately,
by the headmistress Olga
my mom took me to a Zumba
Colombia has so much talent without
Lucia Figueroa and the Artistic
class at her gym. I enjoyed it
recognition. Locally, we probably
director Diana Lucia Betancourt.
so much. But my first thought
have the best salsa and ballroom
They try so hard to bring culture
was, ‘What will my friends
dancers in the world, but the culture
and arts to our country and
back in school think about me
is not very art-educated, so they are
motivate us as kids to see the
if I do ballet?'”
not used to appreciating [dance] in
world of dance as a possible
theaters or shows.
career. Thanks to them, I have
My mom was the one who told
traveled and learned so much
me to try it. She pushed me
Dancing [in Colombia] is also not
about dancing. I’ve also started
to do what I loved no matter
very welcoming for boys, because
to teach all the knowledge that
what other people's thoughts
here, the idea of what a boy should
I have to help my city and my
were about me. She was 100%
be is a soccer player, basketball
country flourish.
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Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs • Styling: Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk • Wardrobe: Pretty Little Thing
T
win sisters Bianca and
they were new to acting,
They spent two weeks there
Chiara D’Ambrosio
the directors recognized
for their roles and luckily
have been acting for
their talent and they scored
had a chance to experience
15 years (since they were
the role. “I remember really
the sights and the culture
3 years old!). Getting their
enjoying my time on set,”
outside of their busy filming
start on The Young and the
Bianca told us, “and [I] knew
schedule. “On our days off,
Restless, the twins have
that as I got older, this was
we got the chance to walk
gone on to score a wide
what I wanted to do with the
around Old San Juan with
variety of roles. We met
rest of my life.” And “the rest is
its brightly colored buildings
up with them at our recent
history,” Chiara said.
and the Fortín San Juan de la Cruz,” Chiara shared. “It was
photo shoot to find out how they got their start, where
Throughout their many roles
very beautiful and colorful!”
they get their inspiration,
since, the twins have had
Bianca said “the colors were
what it was like filming
the opportunity to work
vibrant as well as the food
a movie in Puerto Rico,
alongside some incredible
and the personalities of the
and how they stay close
actors, but there’s one they
people,” and she described
despite going to separate
both look up to in particular:
it as a “once-in-a-lifetime
universities in California.
Jodie Comer. She’s known for
experience.”
playing Oksana/Villanelle on YOUNG AND RESTLESS
the series Killing Eve but has
Luckily for us, Bianca and
been in dozens of shows and
Chiara’s roles on The Bay are
When Bianca and Chiara
movies. “[We] hope, one day,
about to get even bigger, as
were toddlers, many people
to work on screen with her or
they’ll soon be in a spinoff
stopped their parents to
creatively behind the scenes,”
called yA which stars them as
encourage them to get the
Chiara revealed.
the lead characters. They’ll
twins into acting. While their parents were hesitant
reprise their characters FILMING IN PUERTO RICO
at first, they decided to
Frankie and Regan, and the show will follow them as
put them into one audition
Recently the girls traveled to
they move to a multi-million
to see how it would go.
Puerto Rico to film Season 7
dollar estate in fictional Bay
That audition was for The
of The Bay, in which they play
Young and the Restless, a
Frankie and Regan Sanders.
soap opera that’s been onair for 50 seasons! While
WHAT THEY'RE UP TO NOW
WHAT'S NEXT?
geared towards the teen
The twins' new series isn’t
The twins might be at
and young adult audience,
the only thing they’re up
separate colleges now,
centering around their high
to these days, their new
but their long-term goals
school drama and adapting
horror movie, Nyctophobia,
certainly overlap. They
to new surroundings.
will be released soon, and
both hope to work behind
City, California. Unlike The Bay, this new series will be
they’re both freshmen at
the scenes in the television
We know it’s going to
(separate!) colleges. Bianca
and movie industry and
be epic, as their roles on
is pursuing film, English,
even plan to work together
The Bay earned Bianca
creative writing, and law at
to create their own
and Chiara an Emmy
UC Berkeley and loving it.
projects. “ I hope to direct
nomination and Emmy
“This university has given me
a feature film that Chiara
win for “Outstanding
so many opportunities,” she
wrote in the upcoming
Younger Performer in a
told us. “I have made lifelong
years,” Bianca said.
Daytime Fiction Program”
friends, and I have grown as
respectively. “Being
a person.” Chiara is a writing
Besides entertainment, the
recognized alongside
for screen and television
girls have another shared
such a talented group of
major at the University of
passion that will continue
performers is something that
Southern California (USC) and
to keep them close: their
is hard to describe,” Bianca
is “absolutely loving it.”
love of animals. Chiara
revealed. “I finally felt like I could pursue acting for
told us they “have always STAYING CLOSE
the rest of my life.” Chiara,
28
believed in the mantra, ‘adopt, don't shop,’” and
having won the category,
Having spent so much time
they hope to open an
said she was “in shock.”
together growing up, as twins
animal sanctuary together.
"I feel so honored to have
and as co-stars, we had to
“We are against animal
even gotten nominated,
know how they were handling
cruelty and believe that
let alone win!” While they
the separation. The twins
every animal should be
were competing in the same
assured us they’ve had no
treated with kindness and
category, Chiara assured
trouble maintaining their bond.
love,” Bianca explained.
us that there was only love
“I try to come home at every
there. “I could not have
opportunity that I can,” Bianca
We’re so inspired by
imagined going through this
shared. “[We've] always been
these sisters and we’re so
process without Bianca,” she
close, and distance has not
excited to see them in all
said. “We have always been
changed that.” Chiara told us
of their upcoming projects.
supportive of one another,
they “always catch each other
Be sure to keep your eyes
and a win for one of us is a
up on what is happening or
out this year for all of their
win for both of us."
talk for hours.”
new projects!
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shleigh Bennett is a
move to Perth to join the West
off to Europe for three months,
professional ballerina who
Australian Ballet, where she
attending auditions for various
grew up in sunny
worked for three years.
European companies. “I had also
Australia, where she found her
applied for the Hong Kong Ballet
love of dance. But five years ago,
While the company wasn’t quite
audition,” she explained, “but
she made the move to vibrant
as big as the Hong Kong Ballet
because I had already received
China to dance for the Hong Kong
(where she dances today),
job offers, I almost didn’t attend.”
Ballet! We sat down with her to
Ashleigh is appreciative for
She went anyway, and after the
get an inside look on how she
starting her career in “slightly
audition, the director asked to
made the move, what her
smaller companies.” “It gave me
speak to her. “He offered me a
experience has been like dancing
an opportunity to gain experience
contract on the spot,” she
in a brand new country, and how
onstage and in more featured
revealed, “and everything he had
baking (re: her famous brownies)
roles sooner,” she revealed. “I was
to say about the company and
has helped her adjust to her
able to receive more one-on-one
Hong Kong sounded so amazing.
homesickness.
coaching from the artistic staff,
Initially, I just thought I would try it
and I could feel myself
for a year and see if it was a good
significantly improving during
fit. Five years later, I’m still here and
those rehearsals.”
love it just as much, if not more!”
being an “artistic child,” trying
Looking back on her time in
The moving process wasn’t an
everything from swimming, to
Australia now, Ashleigh is so
easy one–it involved visas, finding
gymnastics, to singing. She
grateful that she was able to
a flat, getting a local ID and
dreamed of taking tap classes at
perform for her family easily.
phone number, opening a bank
her local dance studio, but they
“When the casting would get
account, and more. Luckily, she
encouraged her to start ballet
changed, my mum was able to fly
had the support of the company
first, “to get a sense of musicality
to watch me with a day's notice,”
and, of course, her mum. We
and spatial awareness.” She
she explained. “I could perform
imagine it wasn’t an easy feat
ended up loving it and became
for my extended family and
since at the time, she didn’t speak
the “typical bunhead ballerina.”
would often have my
the language at all. “In Hong Kong,
Just two years later, she
grandparents, cousins, aunts, and
they speak Cantonese, Mandarin,
auditioned for the Australian
uncles in the audience at different
and English,” she explained, “but
Ballet School’s (ABS) Interstate
times throughout the year.”
the level of English fluency will
STARTING SMALL Ashleigh describes herself as
Photography: Wilfred Yuen • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
Training Program, got in, and
change depending on which
eventually joined the school
But her time at ABS wasn’t
areas you are in. Trying to speak
full-time when she was just 14
without travel entirely. Ashleigh
it is also difficult because they
years old. Needless to say,
regularly went on regional tours
have so many different tones,
Ashleigh has been on the go
with the company and got to see
most of which I still can’t get right
for a long time!
parts of Australia she “wouldn’t
after five years of trying!”
have known existed.” “It was a After four years at ABS, she
really good way to see more of
While there might be a language
moved back to Brisbane and
my home country,” she shared.
barrier, there is one thing in Hong
joined the Queensland Ballet’s Pre-Professional Program. She
Kong that required no translation– MOVING TO HONG KONG
completed her training there in
the love of the food! “I am such a foodie and the food here really is
two years while performing and
While Ashleigh loved dancing in
amazing,” she shared. “There are
touring alongside the company.
her home country, she wanted to
so many different cuisines, a lot of
After she was done with her
see the world. So, in 2017, she
which I never had an opportunity
training, she made another big
gave her company notice and set
to try before!”
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HONG KONG BALLET
schedule. But that doesn’t stop her
focus on authenticity, not
from making time for self-care
comparison. “I'm going to steal
New York might be “the city that
and preventative practices. “I am
the advice my mum gave me
never sleeps,” but Hong Kong is
quite hypermobile,” she revealed,
when I was leaving home at 14:
“the city that’s never standing
“so I will try to see our company
‘The world doesn’t need a
still,” something that Ashleigh
physio/massage therapist 2-3
duplicate of anyone else. It needs
absolutely loves. “I love to be
times a week, either during one of
you; the best version of you.’
busy,” she shared with us, “and
my breaks or after work. A lot of
Social media nowadays makes it
Hong Kong is such a vibrant city.
the injuries we get as dancers are
so easy to research and educate
I think the company reflects the
caused by overuse and muscle
ourselves on the global dance
city it lives in. [We’re] always
tightness, so it's important that we
world. While this is amazing for
moving from one project to the
get regular treatments to release
educational purposes, it can also
next, never standing still. In my
our muscles during our busy
be detrimental to younger
first six months with the
rehearsal periods."
dancers who negatively compare
company, we had already performed five productions and
themselves to others and lose DANCE AS A LIFESTYLE
been on one international tour!
motivation. My advice would be to work out what your unique
After moving here, I became
As Ashleigh reflects on her journey
strengths are and what makes
more aware of taking the time to
so far, one thing stands out to her
you unique as a dancer. Every
enjoy each moment, because if I
more than anything, and that is that
director has a different opinion,
didn’t do it, everything would
dance is a lifestyle. “I have more
so use your strengths to gain
pass by too quickly!”
respect and appreciation for the
attention in a company that
industry now that I have been a
matches your individual assets,
Touring isn’t all she does with the
part of it for so long,” she explained.
rather than trying to mold
company, though, Ashleigh shared
“We used to joke when we were
yourself into a dancer to fit
that their artistic director is “always
students that 'dance isn't a career,
someone else’s ideal.”
one step ahead, looking for ways to
it's a lifestyle'. And we didn't realize
promote [the] company and the art
how accurate that was in a lot of
form.” “On top of theatre shows and
ways. While training, you have to
tours, I have been lucky to be
sacrifice a lot and be quite strict,
Ashleigh has another passion, and
involved in promotional videos,
because there are so many students
her IG name, @baking_ballerina,
‘pop-up’ performances, and several
and not an equal number of places
might give you a clue. Ashleigh has
photo shoots. The productions he
in both full-time schools and
been baking since she was 14 when
creates are visually incredible, with
companies. If you aren't willing to
she needed something to distract
elaborate costumes and amazing
prioritize your training and put all
from her homesickness. She bakes
set designs. We are performing in
that it entails first, then you won't be
everything from macarons to
New York in 2023–a version of
giving yourself your best chance at
banana bread to brownies
Romeo and Juliet, set in Hong Kong
making it as far as you can go.
(something her brother asks for
in the 1960s complete with a large
Natural talent can only take you to a
every time she comes home). She
set consisting of Hong Kong’s
certain point, so knowing how hard it
even bakes the company a treat
famous neon signs and bamboo
is to 'make it,' I respect everyone who
before every show! So sweet.
scaffolding!”
is willing to put in the time and effort
PREVENTING INJURIES
BAKING BALLERINA
as a student, knowing that there is no
As for what she's up to next,
guarantee that they will be rewarded
Ashleigh just hopes to "immerse
with a career at the end of it.”
[herself] in Hong Kong and
Hong Kong and her company
everything the city has to offer" and
aren’t the only busy things–
Her best advice for those hoping
"keep developing [her] technical
Ashleigh herself has a packed
to build a career in dance is to
and artistic abilities."
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Kylie Cantrall has a LOT going on
said of Dani, “but I think as the
as Shego from Kim Possible.)
at the moment. The 17-year-old
story goes on, we realize that she
There is so much to be excited for
Venezuelan-American singer,
actually has depth and reason
in Season 4. Kylie said she thinks
dancer, and actress is currently
behind her whole persona, and
this is “probably going to be the
gearing up to film the latest
she wants to be the best and really
biggest season yet.” She’s excited
addition to the Descendants series
is a hard worker. I think it’s really
for fans to see the singing moment
while her character Dani on High
cool getting to explore the different
in the first episode that introduces
School Musical: The Musical: The
sides of my character, and the
Dani’s character as well as a
Series works to find her place
audience really gets to see her kind
Halloween episode and “a ton” of
in the Wildcats family all while
of come around at the end.”
musical numbers.
music. With so many projects in
Kylie studied classic mean girls
SEEING RED
the works, we had to sit down with
like Regina George and High
Kylie to get an inside look at how
School Musical icon Sharpay
Dani is only one of Kylie’s new
she makes it all happen.
Evans to bring Dani to life. She
characters. She is also joining Disney’s
had fun creating Dani, but she
extensive Descendants universe
reminds people that she’s not
as the Queen of Hearts’ teenage
playing this role in real life. Dani
daughter Red. (Kylie joked that
After Camp Shallow Lake, the
has definitely lead to some jokes
she manifested her role since she
Wildcats are headed back to
about the differences between
dressed as the Queen of Hearts for
school, and you know there
Kylie and the latest addition to
Halloween when she was a kid.) A
is going to be drama. At the
HSMTMTS. Sophia Wylie even
true triple threat, Kylie is excited to be
heart of some of that drama
joked that Kylie should go as
part of another musical project. “It’s
is Dani, a mean-girl character
Dani for Halloween since she’s a
actually so funny that I’m doing
who Kylie says initially comes
“villain” and the rest of the cast
off as “super intimidating” and
dressed as Disney villains last
“Sharpay-esque.” It seems like
year. (Kylie ended up dressing up
Photography: Sarah Saleh • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
working on her next era of original
DANI ON HSMTMTS
Dani is determined to take over the school, but it’s more than that. “She’s fierce, and sometimes she can push people’s buttons,” Kylie
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are some of Kylie’s first loves. Even before her career started, rehearsals and studios were two musical shows or movies
familiar places. “I grew up
back to back,” she told
around it and knew that I loved
us, sharing that she thinks
it,” she shared.
HSMTMTS helped her prepare for her Descendants role.
TIKTOK CHALLENGES
“There’s something just so fun about a huge ensemble cast.”
TikTok challenges from fans, studio days with her journal
Filming hasn’t started yet, but
full of lyrics and concepts, and
Kylie is already training for
her life experiences are the
her role which she says will
inspiration behind Kylie’s current
require “a mix of everything.”
music. She told us that she's
Big stories full of complicated
working on a new sound (see
scenes, dancing, and all the
the sidebar for details!). Most
magic that the characters’
people know her for her work
parents have tend to make
with Disney, but Kylie’s next era
their way into Descendants
of music is “more mature,” a
films. Kylie is prepared for
new chapter centered around
an exciting production and
the older version of Kylie.
plenty of hard work. “I think there definitely will be stunts
Kylie is exploring. Her fans get
that I’m going to be doing,
to see this process, too. One
especially because my
way that she gives her fans
character is very active…and
access to her music in progress
also already all the dancing.
is with TikTok videos and even
That alone is so intense. I’ve
collaborative challenges where
seen the behind-the-scenes
they give her words to include
rehearsals of some of the
in her lyrics. Kylie never knows
other Descendants movies,
what her comment section will
and their rehearsal days
include. “It’ll be like ‘popcorn’,
were crazy. They were doing
‘TV’, ‘marshmallow’,” she said.
seven-hour rehearsal days
Some of the hardest words
because there were so many
she’s gotten include “pillow”
dance numbers, and it’s
and “horoscope” (which works
going to be pretty much the
because Kylie is totally the
same with this film.”
astrology-obsessed BFF we all want. She’s a Cancer BTW.)
HER OWN PROJECTS We're so excited that Kylie made
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This star’s packed schedule
time to chat with us in the midst
also includes her own musical
of her busy schedule, and we
projects. Brought up by
can't wait to see the end results
producer and choreographer
of all the fun projects she's been
parents, music and singing
working on!
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Photography: Netflix Media Center • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
16-year-old actor Santiago Carrera
at our recent photo shoot to hear all about his childhood in Cabo, his success on the hit TV show Chicken Girls, and what his advice would be to other actors looking to get into the acting industry. FROM CABO TO THE USA From when he was just a
"
ADVICE
I would watch TV shows and movies as a kid and knew that’s what I wanted to do with my life. CHICKEN GIRLS
"
W
e met up with
few months old until he
would love to find themselves starring on TV shows like Chicken Girls, so we had to ask Santiago what advice he would give those looking to break into the acting industry. His advice? “Be patient! You have to keep pushing, especially when you’re starting out as an actor. You will hear 'no' so much more than you’ll hear 'yes,' but you
was 4, Santiago lived in
Now, he is most commonly
can’t let that discourage you.
Cabo San Lucas, a resort
known as the fun-loving
You have to keep trying and
city on the southern tip of
brainiac, Gus, on Chicken
you have to be determined,
Mexico. While he doesn’t
Girls. This highly-loved Brat TV
you’ll get that yes eventually
remember much from living
show is a dream gig for many
if you’re patient and keep
there in childhood, Santiago
aspiring actors, but it was
working towards your goals!
gets to visit at least once
actually Santiago’s first role!
Persistence, determination, and a positive attitude are so
world-renowned beaches
As any new actor would be
and shorelines. It’s a short
when performing for one
flight (about two and a
of the first times alongside
half hours) from the land of
popular actors like Jules
opportunities he now calls
Leblanc and Hayden
home… sunny California!
Summerall, Santiago had some nerves (though we couldn’t
GETTING NOTICED
tell from his performance!). “I had no idea what it would
Santiago moved to
be like,” he revealed. “Since
California when he was
then I’ve learned so much. I
44 but didn’t begin acting
learned how to work on a set,
until he was 11 years old
how everything works, the
when he gained attention
behind the scenes process of
from several agents and
a production, and so much
managers at a global
more!” Right now, Santiago
talent competition. “I’ve
isn’t currently filming any
been super interested in
projects–he goes to school full-
acting since I was young,”
time–but he has big dreams,
he shared. “I would watch
including being on Euphoria
TV shows and movies as a
and working alongside his
kid and knew that’s what I
idols, Zendaya and Jenna
wanted to do with my life!”
Ortega (our cover star).
important for success.”
"
You have to keep pushing, especially when you’re starting out as an actor. You will hear 'no' so much more than you’ll hear 'yes,' but you can’t let that discourage you.
"
a year to experience the Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs • Styling: Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk
We know many of our readers
Can you tell us a little bit
What was your first gig?
What's your dream gig?
about yourself and your
"My first gig was a voiceover
"I would love to be in the
experiences in the industry?
for a commercial! I was 9 at the
Marvel Universe at some point.
"My name is Dana Heath.
time. All I had to do was laugh. I
And I would also love to be on
I am an artist and love all
got to work in the most beautiful
Broadway. Any character in
things creative! I did theatre
studio, and they made me
those two settings would be a
my entire childhood and
breakfast from scratch. I felt so
dream come true!"
have been professionally
fancy. And everyone was so nice
acting for seven years now!"
to me. Not every experience
What’s something people
going forward was this fancy,
would be surprised to know
Can you tell us a little bit
so that makes my first gig even
about you?
about yourself and your
more special to me."
"I'm graduating a year early,
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design: Holly Childs • Styling: Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk
experiences in the industry?
and I want to go to college and
"I’ve always wanted to act
What has been your favorite
study Botany. I love science,
in theatre groups, but when
gig or role?
and nature/plant life has
I learned you can do it on
"My favorite role so far has
always been so beautiful and
TV, I just knew that was
to be playing Mika in Danger
fascinating to me."
something I wanted to do
Force. I’ve spent three and a
for the rest of my life. I heard
half years performing as her
How does acting inspire you?
a commercial on the radio
so she is like a part of me now.
"Acting inspires me because it
for Disney auditions, and I
I have been able to work with
is the study of people. It allows
begged my mom to let me
a lot of great people on that
me to portray and understand
do it. After that audition,
show. I’ve even made some of
characters that I am nothing
I moved to LA to pursue
my dear friends on that show."
like and experience something in an entirely new way. It’s a
acting as a career." Can you tell us about your
life changer for sure."
What other actors are you
experience playing Mika?
inspired by?
"It’s one of my best
What do you consider the key
"I’m extremely inspired by
experiences. I‘ve grown up
to success?
KeKe Palmer and Samuel
on that show and have made
"I feel like success is subjective.
L. Jackson. Both of their
some incredible memories. We
But for me as long as you
work ethics and resumes
finished filming Season 3 and
are happy and fulfilled with
just continue to amaze me.
I’m excited for everyone to see
the work you’ve done and
I would love to work with
Mika’s development that I’ve
the person you’ve grown to
them someday."
worked so hard on!"
become, that’s success."
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When you think of ballet, your mind might immediately jeté to
Russia
France or Italy, but this dance has
France and Italy couldn’t keep ballet
companies in the 1900s including
traveled around the globe and
to themselves—and conflicts like
Germany, Holland, Italy, Sweden,
impacted more countries than
the French Revolution altered the
Denmark, and Cuba.
we can imagine. Ballet can (and
relationship between France and
does!) fill history books. Let’s trace
the arts. Russia found its own love of
some of that incredible history.
ballet in the 1700s as Peter the Great
Italy & France
There are hundreds of ballet
worked to Westernize Russia and
China & South Korea
brought ballet teachers from France
China and South Korea both
and Italy to St. Petersburg and
saw major developments in
Moscow to teach at ballet schools.
ballet in the mid-1900s. Both
companies around the
countries would start to directly
world today, but it all started
PBT notes that in the late 1800s,
support professional dancers and
in 15th-century Italy. The
ballet really began to pick up
performances.
Renaissance courts used dance
speed as some of the biggest
as entertainment for parties
ballets in the world even to this
Ballet first came to China during
and celebrations that included
day were created including The
the Qing Dynasty, and in the 1920s
professional dancers and the
Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty,
Russian ballet dancers brought
nobility hitting the dance floor
and Swan Lake. Russia is also the
their styles and choreography
during performances.
home of the classical tutu.
to major cities to teach Chinese
A century later, ballet made its way to France with the help of Catherine de Medici (Italian
United Kingdom & North America
dancers. When the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1949, ballet would gain support nationally. In 1959, the
wife of King Henry II of France)
Encyclopedia Britannica credits
Experimental Ballet of the Beijing
and was later promoted and
Russian founder of the Ballets Russes,
Dance School was founded and
popularized by King Louis XIV.
Serge Diaghilev, with a lot of the later
would later become the National
In fact, according to Pittsburgh
success of major ballet companies
Ballet of China. Since then,
Ballet Theatre (PBT), the king
in France, the United Kingdom, and
Chinese ballet has developed its
was a “passionate dancer” and
North America. Diaghilev introduced
own subgenres from classical to
performed in ballets himself.
the one-act ballet to Western ballet
folk, and continues to grow and
Louis XIV also established two
as the Ballet Russes performed in
develop as a major art form.
ballet academies during his
Paris and London.
reign, the Académie Royale
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
BALLET FACT: Other countries became home to major ballet
The Korean National Ballet
de Danse and the Académie
By the 1930s, a real interest in
was founded in 1962 and later
Royale de Musique.
ballet was returning to the United
established a national ballet school
Kingdom and by the 1950s the
that would bring professional ballet
Royal Ballet was officially granted
education to Korean dancers at
BALLET FACT: Ballet found its
royal patronage. Similar changes
home rather than abroad. Korean
footing with court ballets. In
were happening in the United
ballet history is more recent than
France, Ballet Comique de La
States where New York City Ballet
in some other countries, but it has
Reine (1581) choreographed
and American Ballet Theatre were
developed rapidly over the last 60
by court musician and
founded in the 1930s. NYC Ballet
years as Korean stories have been
choreographer Balthasar
would become home to George
adapted to ballet, new companies
de Beaujoyeulx started a
Balanchine, a former Diaghilev
have formed, and dancers have
tradition of court ballets that
choreographer, and his many
made their mark on both Korean
lasted over 100 years.
notable creations.
and international companies.
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Ballet continued in Australia with BALLET FACT: In 2021, South Korean
the Borovansky Ballet founded
ballerina Park Sae-eun became the
in 1940 by Edouard Borovansky
first Asian ballerina to reach top
in Melbourne. This was followed
“etoile” or “star” rank in the Paris
by the Australian Ballet and its
Opera Ballet’s 352-year history.
school which were founded in
Africa Dancers point their toes in countries across Africa, bringing ballet to stages in Tunisia, South Africa, Nigeria, Guinea, and more. In fact, the Cape Town City Ballet in South Africa is one of the oldest ballets in the world. The arts are being brought to students as well. The Zama Dance School of Gugulethu, South Africa was founded in 1984 to bring ballet to South African students and build confidence in young dancers. Lagos, Nigeria is home
the early 1960s. The Australian Ballet is now the largest classical ballet in Australia.
"
Ballet is one of the most popular styles of dance in the world Ballet around the world
to Leap of Dance Academy which
Over 600 years of footwork,
received acclaim and support in
choreography, and dance have
2020 when a video of 11-year-old
taken ballet from ballroom
dancer Anthony Mmesoma Madu
floors to stages and from
dancing in the rain went viral.
country to country. Ballet is
Australia
Should we thank gold for Australian
one of the most popular styles of dance in the world and is year on World Ballet Day.
Australia says that gold rushes in
Ballet’s influence has changed
1851 and onward brought more and
the way dancers and
more people to the continent and
choreographers tell stories and
with them a need for entertainment.
has technique that has bled into
Theaters were built that would give
jazz, modern, contemporary,
platforms for international dancers
and other styles. It even plays
including Russian ballet icons like
a role in training for sports like
Anna Pavlova and the Ballet Russes.
football, soccer, track, and even
These visits would inspire Louis
swimming! Ballet is a dance that
Lightfoot and Mischa Burlakov’s
continues to grow and expand
love of dance and eventually their
around the world where it is
Lightfoot-Burlakov Classical Dance
used to tell new stories and
School which opened in 1928.
revive old ones.
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THE PARIS OPERA BALLET France, 1669
THE BOLSHOI BALLET Russia, 1776
PRAGUE NATIONAL THEATRE Czech Republic, 1883
celebrated internationally every
ballet? The National Museum of
46
Some of The Oldest Ballet Companies Around the World
COLON THEATER BALLET Argentina, 1925
ATLANTA BALLET USA, 1929
CAPE TOWN CITY BALLET South Africa, 1934
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Design: Holly Childs • Photography/Writing: Taylor Quinn • Editing: Veronica Good
Can you tell us a little bit about
my songs. When I discovered
and beauty that will make you
yourself and your experiences
hip hop I found that it gave me
laugh, cry, and jump for joy!"
in the industry?
so much power to let all of my
"I’m Daire McLeod. I’m 15
emotions out and put them into
Was it amazing filming
years old and I’m an actor/
something that can move people
on-location for this season?
singer/dancer/writer/
in a way that can connect to the
"Yes! The reason I love this
musician/cat wrangler... but
world. All of my creative outlets
project so much is that it
that’s a super long title so
allow me to do what I love best:
was almost like filming five
just go with cat wrangler.
to inspire people. I can share
movies in six months. Each
Just kidding! I’ve always
my stories or someone else’s
new character brought a new
had a passion for creativity
and people can look at that and
drastically different location
and anything involving self-
say 'I’m not alone.' If I can bring
for us to film in. We’d film
expression because it allows
someone joy by doing something
in the tunnels where Nikola
me to connect with the entire
that brings me joy, I don’t think I
Tesla did his experiments
world for a while and make
could ask for anything more!"
on hydroelectric power, we
Photography: Ryan West • Design/Writing: Holly Childs • Styling: Veronica Graye • Hair/MUA: Gabriela Banda
people smile. So far I’ve done
filmed at Toronto University,
that as Charli Allen in Apple
Why do you love to dance?
and my personal favorite The
TV+'s Ghostwriter, Lilith on
" It’s almost impossible to put into
Magicians' Hideaway!"
Nickelodeon’s Danger Force,
words the indescribable feeling
my newest single “Hey Honey,”
that comes with dancing, but
What is something that keeps
and more. I’ve had so many
I’ll try! Dance allows me to be in
you strong when things get
amazing opportunities so far
touch with my body and music
difficult?
and I can’t wait to see where
in a different way. Dance is how
"I think having anchors in your
the next one takes me!"
music can truly take you over.
life is so important because
It’s where every note vibrates
even if everything gets flipped
How long have you been
through you from the top of your
on its head, those remain
acting and singing?
head to the tip of your toes. It's an
constant. My anchors in life are
"I’ve been singing ever since I
energetic outlet of expression for
definitely my friends and family.
can remember, and listening
me and I love it! Combining it with
I've always felt comfortable
to music since the womb!
singing just makes it even better!!"
talking to them about my
(Seriously, baby Daire was
shortcomings or leaning on
listening to Mozart!) I’ve also
Tell us about Ghostwriter!
them when I need to regain
loved acting since I was small,
"I play Charli Allen in Apple TV+’s
my strength. I have my inner
but I only started professionally
newest season of Ghostwriter. I
anchors to keep me rooted in
pursuing it when I was 10.
think Charli and I are twin souls
positivity as well. Sometimes
because we are both quirky,
when I’m feeling down, I look
How did you become
outgoing, and super bubbly.
at myself in the mirror and
interested in dance?
Not only does this season have
remember what I have, what I
"I’ve always loved dancing
twists and turns and a mystery
will achieve, and why I deserve
because it makes me feel so
that you can’t stop watching,
to be where I am. Words have
free, and I started taking classes
we also discuss important
power, so by utilizing your words
two to three years ago. My
social issues that can create
as a weapon against your
passion for dance has been
meaningful conversations. This
negativity, you are taking your
like a growing wave because
season has an exciting magical
strength back. I always try to
it’s only gotten stronger as
mystery with so many moments
keep a positive attitude, because
time has gone on. I’d put on
that will keep you on the edge
when you can find the good, you
musicals in my house where I’d
of your seat, but there are also
can get the most out of your day
choreograph dances to go with
so many moments of true heart
and truly carpe that diem!"
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Y
ou might have seen belly dance
Belly dance is often used as an
own unique way. In one sense, it
in movies or on TV or even
umbrella term for the numerous
could be said that there are as
taken a class at a Showstopper
styles that have developed over
many belly dance styles as there
convention. What you might not
millenia originally coming out of
are belly dancers!"
know is that this expressive art is
Egypt. These styles are all “belly
thousands of years old and has
dance,” but they have different
a variety of different meanings
inspirations, music, and rhythms.
and styles from across the world.
Janelle has dedicated her time
Through her dance and study
To learn more about the history
and training to many of these
of Raqs Sharqi, Janelle has
of belly dance and all of the
styles including “Taqsim, Baladi,
noticed that an essential part
things that make it so great,
Raks Al Assaya, Saidi, Drum Solo,
of belly dance is the connection
we turned to belly dancer and
Veil, Sha’abi, Modern, Classical,
between audiences and dancers.
Showstopper convention teacher,
Fusion, Melaya Leff, Hagala,
“This connection is due to the
Janelle Jalila Issis.
Khaleegi, and Egyptian as well
celebratory nature of dance in
as some specialty acts including
Egypt where traditional dance
Janelle has trained under dozens
Isis wings, fire palm torches, and
was performed at weddings
of incredible dancers inside and out
candle tray.”
and celebrations. Also, the social
of belly dance, but she credits more
nature of this dance means that
than passion for her love of belly
spontaneity and improvisation are
dance. Part of her Arab Palestinian heritage, Janelle grew up dancing traditional styles as well as taking jazz, tap, and ballet classes. Janelle’s Sunday school teacher Linda Colman, known by her belly dance name Aziza of Birmingham. She became Janelle’s mentor and instructor in belly dance even as Janelle continued to work on other Photography: C. Lee Walls Jr. • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
STYLE AND MOVEMENT
styles of dance. Now, Janelle works to continue to spread belly dance to dancers around the world from her own school, JBelly School of RAQ, to conventions to live performances. WHAT IS BELLY DANCE? There are dozens of styles of belly dance (also often referred
"the style has changed over time in that the dance in the old times was more flowing and gentle while modern style tends to be more energetic and assertive"
to as “Raqs Sharqi” which means
preferred over choreography at least for solo performances.” Belly dance is self-expression, and that it is a big part of why (alongside regional cultural differences) it has been able to take on so many different forms. Even belly dance, the Western umbrella term for this style, has brought in additional influences that impact style, music, costumes, and more. Here’s Janelle on those changes: “There are many factors that lead to the transition between social Egyptian dances and the new style of Raqs Sharqi. Raqs Sharqi is ever-changing and evolving, and individual dancers can be very influential in the development of this art. Generally speaking, the style has
“dance of the East”). “It was and
If that sounds like a long list, there
changed over time in that the dance
is danced when women gather
are even more styles, and as
in the old times was more flowing
together to socialize,” Janelle said
Janelle points out, “Belly dance is
and gentle while modern style tends
of the style. She highlights the ways
an individual creative expression
to be more energetic and assertive.
that belly dance plays a role in
of the core moves and core
However, these differences also
celebrations and special occasions
concepts, and each belly dancer
depend largely on each individual
like weddings and parties.
interprets the music in his or her
dancer’s style and personality.”
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BEYOND THE BELLY
COSTUMES
Speaking of style, while you
It’s hard to think of belly dance
might think these styles are
without its costumes. Like the
all about hip rotation and
styles, there are many different
ab-flexing, belly dance,
kinds of belly dance costumes, but
despite its name, is a
many of us are most familiar with
whole-body dance.
the theatrical Egyptian and Arabic style. Modern belly dancers may
Janelle breaks down the
also dance in simplified costumes
basics of these movements
as well (especially for classes or
like this: “This dance
rehearsals) like a beaded top and
contains not only controlled
leggings with a belly dancing skirt
meticulous core work, but
over them.
percussive movements of the hips, shoulders, and pelvis
Like any dance costume, these
as well as fluid movements
pieces are full of memories for
of the abdominal, arms, and
the dancers that wear them.
hands as well as shimmies,
Janelle told us that she still has
shivers, and vibrations.”
some of her very first costumes from learning to belly dance as a
Belly dance is so dependent
kid. She loves her new costumes
on the dancer. As Janelle
as well. “Who doesn’t love a new
pointed out, improv is a
sparkly suit?”
big part of the style and how the dance flows from
The costumes aren’t all
one movement to the next.
fashion, though. “Costumes are
“When we dance, we are the
wonderful for accentuating
music,” she said. “We allow
the movements and style being
the music to flow through
presented and each costume
us and tell us what to do.
serves a different purpose. “You
Certain sounds or instruments
don’t need a hip skirt to belly
call for certain movements
dance, but it’s a nice addition to
of the entire body! Isolations
help feel the style out and get
are a big part of this dance,
into the character.”
but many times we will be shimmying or using fluid arms
Janelle has shared belly dance
to contrast the movement—so
with dancers across the world
doing two things at once at
from dancing on Season 9 of
varying speeds!”
So You Think You Can Dance to opening her school and creating
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Just like ballet, jazz, or any
her own line of belly dance
well-known studio style of
dancewear. Dancing, studying,
dance, belly dance may
and sharing this style Janelle said
look fluid and effortless,
has had “an impact on my life and
but there is a lot of strength
the way I approach movement
and technique behind those
and various styles. It’s always a
improvised moves.
gift to continue to learn.”
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Can you tell us a little bit
choreograph a performance at
As far as dancers, Sean Lew is
about yourself and your
a family party. It’s just always
someone I’ve had the privilege
experiences in the industry?
been in me. I don’t think I ever
to watch grow as an artist and
"Hi! I’m Ciara and I’m an actor,
consciously decided that this
worked with in the early days
dancer, and fashion designer
was what I wanted to do. It’s
of my career. There is literally
from Portland, Oregon. I grew
interesting how I can’t remember
nothing that man can’t do, and
up a competitive dancer
a moment or piece of work
he does it WELL."
and also had a deep passion
that inspired me; it felt more
for acting and decided to
predetermined than that. There
What do you love the
come to LA at 11 years old
wasn’t really a doubt about it that
most about dance?
to pursue it! I’m 21 years
this was what I wanted to pursue,
"For me, dance is one of
old now and have had the
so I went full force ahead at it."
the most unique forms of
incredible opportunity to work on projects like LA’s Finest, Disney’s live-action Kim Possible movie, and now the On My Block Spin-off Freeridge on Netflix! I simply couldn’t be happier getting to lead with creativity and doing what I love for work each day." How long have you been acting and dancing? "I started dancing when I was young. My mom used to joke that she put me in a dance class right out of the womb! Competitive dance was a huge part of my life growing up. I took a few acting
therapy. There’s something so
"I loved the camaraderie and excitement of competition days and the late nights training with some of my best friends. I’ll never foreget that part of my childhOOD. "
Photography: Olivia Tindall • Design: Holly Childs
classes in Oregon when I
beautiful about letting your body take over your mind and just living in that creative flow state for a while. Learning to dance growing up was a really cool experience because it gave me a sense of community within my competitive dance team and taught me a lot about determination and work ethic at a young age." We heard you competed! "Yes! I grew up competing with Elite Dance Studio in Portland, Oregon and it was so formative for me. I loved the camaraderie and
was a young child, but that
What other actors/dancers are
excitement of competition
passion really grew when I
you inspired by?
days and the late nights
got out to LA at eleven and
"I am SO inspired by the amazing
training with some of my best
was surrounded by so many
Asian American actors that are
friends. I’ll never forget that
talented young actors. That’s
just absolutely killing it right now.
part of my childhood."
when my focus switched
I saw Babylon (a phenomenal
more from dance to acting."
movie) recently and Li Jun Li’s
What does your typical week
performance was not only crazy
look like?
How did you become
good, but gave me a new answer
"What I love about my life
interested in the arts?
for my dream role. I had the
and this industry is that every
"I was always a very creative
chance to work with Raymond Lee
week seems to look different.
and outgoing kid. I never
on Quantum Leap and he inspired
I could have a surprise same-
missed an opportunity for
me every day with his kindness
day audition or work that
a school talent show or to
and talent.
you just have to be ready
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for at a moment's notice.
creativity. I love that the events/
What keeps you strong when
But some constants I have
premieres that go along with
things get difficult?
in my life are sewing (I
acting have given me a platform
"Coming home to my incredibly
love going to DTLA fashion
to show off my designs.
supportive roommates and
district to source fabric), an
knowing they will always be a
occasional heels dance class
What styles/other designers are
at Playground, and hanging
you inspired by?
with my Freeridge castmates."
"I am super inspired by the ‘70s
What do you consider the
rock era of fashion. One of the top
key to success?
You're on a new show,
designers I draw inspiration from
"Complete, unwavering belief
Freeridge. Tell us about it!
is Bob Mackie, and I got to meet
in yourself and all that you can
"Freeridge is a coming-of-
him recently at a book signing to
achieve. It’s easier said than
age comedy and spin-off
tell how much I love his work!"
done, but once you have that
of the Netflix series On
foundation of deep knowingness
My Block. It follows four
What do you hope to achieve
in your worthiness/ability,
teens living in the town of
with your fashion design?
anything is possible."
Freeridge as they try to
"I would love to continue to design
reverse a curse bringing
outfits for press and premieres
Can you tell us about your
chaos into their lives. I play
relating to my acting work and
experience as a member
Demi, a spiritual empath
am planning on releasing a
of the queer community
who loves all things crystals,
clothing brand soon!"
and your efforts to support queer-based/BIPOC-focused
tarot cards, and being the resident ‘therapist’ friend.
This is our International issue,
organizations?
can you tell us a little bit about
"I came out as bisexual this
Playing Demi is by far my
your Filipino heritage?
year and couldn’t be prouder
favorite role I’ve ever done.
"I am half Filipino. :) My
to be a part of the queer
I see a lot of myself in Demi
grandparents came from
community! I love to support
in terms of her fashion, her
Pangasinan, Philippines and
queer/BIPOC owned clothing
interest in spirituality, and
immigrated to the US in the
brands and restaurants in
the way she approaches
'60s. I love learning more about
my day to day life. My latest
friendships. The filming
my roots from my grandma,
queer short film “Reply”
experience for Freeridge
especially through her cooking."
(by Elle Mills) also donated
was also just one of the
a portion of their profits to
most exciting three months
Where would you most like
the Trevor Project to support
of my life surrounded by my
to travel to?
queer youth in times of crisis."
best friends."
"I would love to go to Tokyo. My
You're also a fashion
best friend just went and she had
What are your goals in
so many amazing stories!"
the future?
designer. How did that start?
58
shoulder to lean on."
"I would love to work on a
"I started sewing during
What advice would you give to
second season of Freeridge
quarantine for fun and
others in the industry?
and continue to find new
quickly realized it was
" Find a healthy balance
acting projects (maybe
something I am super
between working hard and
shoot something out of the
passionate about. Designing
staying persistent… and still
country!). I would also love to
is a way for me to express
finding ways to set healthy
keep learning and diving into
myself and utilize my
boundaries and rest."
the fashion world."
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Captivatingly cosmopolitan
everyone is different, and that
day begins with teatime at Sketch
and wondrously worldwide
means anyone can fit in.” Eight
Parlour in Mayfair.
London is the most linguistically
timezones away from home in
diverse city in the world
California, come along with me
With more than five themed
with over 250 languages
for a day in London!
rooms (created in collaboration
represented and a population
with amazing artists) to dine in,
of nearly 9 million people.
this was the perfect place to have
Standing in a land of royalty and centuries of history, red buses drive on the left side of the road. Big Ben chimes over the city, and the palace shines. This fashion scene is totally my cup of tea. Traveling for dance and fashion, I’m finding that there is excitement around every corner, strutting around town in the capital of England. My phone is ringing… and
"
that first sip of pink London tea—
London is majestic and electric, fashionable and thriving, regal and full of exciting energy.
pink rosebud tea with the Parlour
TEA TIME!
Would it be a trip to London
Acai Bowl to be exact. Talk about taking my taste buds to a happy place! But a good cup of tea is really about who you enjoy it with. Across the table is my adventure buddy (my lovely mama!). We say “Cheers to London!” Tea party? Yes, please! A VISIT TO THE PALACE
London is calling. Contemporary British fashion
without a visit to the palace?
designer Vivienne Westwood
Touchdown in London Town,
Driving up the road and seeing
says, “There’s nowhere else
and I’m already in love.
the golden palace gates shining
like London. Nothing at all,
Drinking tea is an art, and you
in the sun behind the London
anywhere.” Yes, to this! I think
can’t visit this city without
fog is a moment I will never
London is majestic and electric,
taking time for tea. England
forget! Buckingham Palace
fashionable and thriving, regal
has been loving tea for
is an awe-inspiring beauty, a
and full of exciting energy. As
hundreds of years, and there
place of grandeur with over
Paddington Bear (a British icon,
are many charming tea houses
700 rooms, blooming gardens,
of course) says, “In London,
to choose from in London. My
and those iconic guards in full
uniform. Also known as the
department store
“Queen’s House,” this historic
is a gallery of glamour
landmark in Westminster is
stretching over a million
pure majesty. (Pun intended,
square feet, featuring all
of course.) After all, a princess
the top name fashion labels
must visit the palace. Treat
in the industry with clothes
yourself like royalty!
from around the world.
"
My favorite part was taking the famous bronze
It’s as if the London sidewalks are the runway for everyday epic fashion shows here.
escalators up to the evening
SHOPPING IN LONDON
Oxford Circus... Thrifting
dresses department: designer ball gown collections! It’s like walking into fashion heaven. Elegance galore, with dresses perfect for a soiree and endless skirts made to twirl in ready to dance the night away Cinderella-style at a royal ball.
in Oxford Circus is a great It’s not a fashion trip if you
time, especially if you’re
don’t explore the shopping
looking for unique fashion
options, right? Like New York,
and fun pieces.
Photography/Writing: Christy Lyn Huebner • Design: Holly Childs
Paris, and Milan, London is a fashion hub, and London
Liberty... When you
Fashion Week is one of the top
walk into this Regent
four fashion weeks around
Street department store,
the globe each season. Top
you are sure to get
designers like Alexander
inspired. Dating back
McQueen and Stella
to 1875, Liberty is truly
McCartney call London home!
a London gem. With six floors of shopping,
Off the runway, there is
staircases, chandeliers,
next-level street style. It’s as
portraits, British heritage,
if the London sidewalks are
and a major fashion
the runway for everyday
establishment, this store is
epic fashion shows here. I am
beautiful in many ways!
beyond inspired by this UKstyle dreamland.
Soho... You can’t leave without shopping in Soho!
SOME OF MY FAV SPOTS
Another one of my London favs is Carnaby Street.
Harrods... Basically a mega
Clothing, footwear, beauty,
fashion museum. Harrods
lifestyle, and collectables,
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this vibrant street is an exciting
the street corners, and Piccadilly
place to score great fashion. Plus,
Circus has its own energy. West
verifiably on-trend, row after
End, Covent Garden, riding the
row of recognizable brands and
Tube, and catching the London Eye
local shops unique to the UK,
defining the skyline at night, there’s
walking down the radiant streets
so much to spot. Starry eyes,
here in Soho is awesome.
friends. Live, love, lively, London!
LUNCHTIME
"
After shopping til we drop in London, yummy cuisine is a must. I admire all of the splendidly creative eateries around London. One of my new favs is a lovely café called EL&N London. EL&N stands for Eat, Live, and Nourish, and stumbling upon this cute all-pink eatery was pure luck! EL&N is self-described as “a fashionled food and drink destination with a focus on delicacies… not only stunning but delicious too.” Everything is pink here and
As a dancer, live performance always gives me a source of inspiration, and it is an honor seeing art being created in the moment.
photo-ready! Pose with candy heart wall art while enjoying
NIGHT OUT AT THE OPERA
red velvet lattes, pistachio frappes, honey cakes, avocado
Getting all dressed up and glam
toast, falafel wraps, and all-day
for a night out at the ballet with my
brunch. This place is imaginative,
ballerina mama is always a perfect
culinary, and rosy sweet.
night. A visit to the theatre is at the top of my itinerary every place I am
ICON HUNTING
lucky enough to visit. As a dancer, live performance always gives me
I spy…Big Ben! As Anna Quindlen
a source of inspiration, and it is an
puts it, “London opens to you
honor seeing art being created in
like a novel itself…It is divided
the moment.
into chapters, the chapters into scenes, the scenes into
The Royal Opera House Theatre is
sentences…Mayfair to Piccadilly
a beautiful 164-year-old work of
to Soho to the Strand.” There
art rebuilt in 1858, but the Royal
is so much to discover. I loved
Theatre’s history began in London
seeing the breathtaking Tower
in 1732. Is it fate that The Royal
Bridge, parks, and Westminster
Ballet is performing my favorite
Abbey (home of generations of
ballet? Created by choreographer
royal weddings!). Red telephone booths are waiting on
Kenneth MacMillan, a classic tale of two dancing star-crossed
lovers, Romeo and Juliet. I
ages (their website
know the steps to the balcony
shouts out dancers
Pas de Deux scene of this ballet
age four to 94!) and all
by heart, like a daydream on
skill levels and walks
repeat.
of life—from everyday dancet to The Royal
When the music, composed by
Ballet to royalty—can
Sergei Prokofiev, plays, I get
visit Pineapple to learn
butterflies, and tonight, the
something new, take
orchestra is led by the amazing
a class, and meet new
female conductor Alondra de
dancers. “If you’ve never
la Parra (girl boss inspiration!).
danced or if you’re
Hearing it echo through the
starring in a West End
Royal Theatre was unreal. The
Show, Pineapple is the
artists sparkled on stage until
people’s dance studio with
the audience gave its standing
something for everyone.”
ovation. I don’t think I need to say that this is an unforgettable
To give you an idea of
experience for any dancer.
what Pineapple has to offer, they see up to 2,500
Historic and modern, a dynamic
people each day and offer
combination that constantly
250 classes in 40 different
creates the beauty you can find
styles each week. Even if
all around town. Virginia Woolf
you only stop by to see the
said of London, “The streets of
space and get inspired,
London have their map, but our
you can take a little slice
passions are uncharted. What
of Pineapple home with
are you going to meet if you turn
you! They offer online
the corner?” I love this quote
dance classes, too!
because I found it to be so true of my own London adventure!
Watching dance in London is such an incredible
BONUS STOP: PINEAPPLE
experience, but getting to be part of the dance
With so much dance and
scene (if only for a class or
fashion in London, it’s easy to
two) is so special, too.
come up with a list of places to go that is miles long! A dancer’s
FROM LONDON WITH LOVE
day in London only gets more spectacular when you can
There is a special energy
put your feet on a dance floor.
and so many exciting
Luckily, there’s at least one
wonders to see, things to
special place where you can
do, fashions to discover,
let your dance skills do a little
and neighborhoods to
exploring as well.
explore in London. My heart is grateful, and I
Pineapple Dance Studios is a
already can’t wait for
place where dancers of all
my next visit back!
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Photography: Provided by Dancers • Design: Holly Childs
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that she now says
she used to “view being
differences between
and our Editor-in-Chief,
dance is her “biggest
Danish as a disadvantage”
LA and Denmark, she
Holly, collaborated on a
passion.” Traveling and
in terms of dance. The
recently lived in NYC
photo shoot in Hollywood
experiencing the variety
industry is small, and
and found that while
recently, and, after
of dance across the
the jobs are limited, but
LA is focused on “work,
meeting her, we knew we
world, Frederikke said
luckily her studio regularly
productions, networking,
had to share her story.
she is “easily inspired by
flew in international
and bringing your
While she’s originally from
every dancer she meets.”
choreographers so she
A-game,” NYC is focused
Denmark, Frederikke has
“To me, dance is such an
could “keep up with the
more on “training and
been traveling around the
individual art form,” she
rest of the [dance] world.”
exploring the art rather
world to “explore dance
shared, “and we can all
While she’s gotten some
than showcasing it.”
in other environments and
learn something from
great opportunities in
pursue [her] dream.”
each other.”
Denmark (including
HER ADVICE
dancing solo on stage INSPIRED BY DANCE
DENMARK AND BEYOND
with ‘DJ Encore’ recently),
We know it’s many
Frederikke felt the call to
dancers’ dream to travel
Dubbed a “very
Growing up in a safe and
travel in order to explore
and dance internationally,
performance-minded
tradition-focused country
a professional career
so we asked the travel
child” by her father,
like Denmark, Frederikke
in dance. “I wanted to
expert for some advice:
Frederikke was constantly
describes her childhood
go where I had the best
“Be brave, and remember
dancing. It’s no surprise
as “very secure,” however,
options to pursue my
that sometimes you have
career and be with the
to be ‘annoying’ and ask
best of the best,” she
people for
revealed. She began with
advice or help
short study trips with her
a little bit more
dance studio, and in 2021,
than you might
she made the big move to
ike. Do the things
Los Angeles
you want, even when you are scared. There
DIFFERENCES IN DANCE
are so many creative people around you, use
According to Frederikke,
it! Inner peace is the
Los Angeles, in comparison
most important so be
with Denmark, is “bigger,
intentional to who you
with bigger productions,
give your energy to
pay rates, agencies,
and don’t compromise
studios, artists, and
your boundaries.”
so on.” But she hasn’t just experienced the
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Photography/Design/Writing: Holly Childs
Frederikke Lonberg
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Sisters Amalia, Raena, and
The food, the music, all aspects of
creative flow.”
Gabriella, AKA “Triple Charm,”
Hispanic culture, we have gotten to
Raena enjoys
have been in the industry for
learn through her and our family.”
running and weightlifting,
almost their whole lives. “I’ve
Released during Hispanic Heritage
which she believes has helped
been performing since before
Month, they describe the song as “a
her with her performance. “I love
I could walk,” Amalia shared.
celebration of Latin culture.”
fitness and working out which
Photography: Joaquin Brignoni, Secret Key Entertainment, LLC • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
She’s the oldest of the girls
definitely helps with singing,
and was the inspiration for her
They describe the song's beat as
stamina, and performance,” she
sisters’ love of music. “Amalia
“feel good” and something that’s
revealed.” Meanwhile, Gabriella
inspired me and Raena to start
sure to “get you up on your feet,”
has their wardrobe on lock with
singing,” Gabriella revealed.
something important to them
her sewing skills. "I'm able to alter
“After years of going to her
after growing up in competitive
any of our outfits and customize
singing competitions and
dance. “Dance has always been
pieces for each of us!”
listening to her warm up in the
a major part of our lives,” they
car, we decided to join in on
revealed. “Dance is also a major
the fun!”
part of Hispanic culture. It is a big
THRIVING
connection point between our
Now, Triple Charm has released
Before they got their start in
lives and culture and we knew
their latest single, “Thrive," "an
singing, though, the girls were
we wanted to write about it. Also,
anthem for the new year, all
competitive dancers (starting
dance is so powerful in the way
about living your life to the
at age 2!). Gabriella’s first
that it brings people together and
fullest!” they shared. They hope
time competing was actually
is an outlet to celebrate the good
the song empowers their listeners,
in a trio with her sisters. They
or shake off the bad. We wanted to
as empowerment “has always
(fittingly) danced to “We Are
create a song that shows you that
been extremely important to
Family.” Since then, they’ve
no matter the day of the week, rain
[them]. “We have been lucky
shifted their priorities to music,
or shine, you can dance. Dance will
enough to grow up surrounded
but they certainly haven’t lost
be there for you.”
by kind, hardworking, and
their love of dance.
amazing women that inspire us TEAM EFFORT
DON’T NEED A REASON (TO DANCE)
every day. We hope to inspire young women in the same way."
You’d think the girls would have their hands full—between vocal lessons,
By the time you read this,
In 2022, Triple Charm released
songwriting lessons, practicing,
“Thrive” will be available on
their first-ever bilingual single,
rehearsing, recording, and filming
all streaming platforms. But to
“Don’t Need a Reason,” all
reels—but they still find time for
give you a sneak peek, the girls
about the power of dance.
a ton of hobbies. “Each week is
shared a lyric with us that they
“We are 50% Puerto Rican,
jam-packed but we love to stay
feel “perfectly encapsulates the
so we wanted to write a
busy,” they explained. But unlike
song:” “Don’t wanna just live, do
song to connect with our
their shared love of dance and
more than survive, we’re here to
Latin roots. It’s inspired by
singing, the sisters’ hobbies are very
thrive.” They shared that this is
the days we would spend at
different from each other. Amalia
what the song is all about, “being
our Abuela’s house, dancing
loves to read and finds it has helped
in a mindset of putting yourself
to Latin music and watching
her “grow as a songwriter.” “It’s
first, living your life in pursuit of
telenovelas. Whenever we
a creative outlet and books are a
happiness, and reaching your full
are with [our Abuela] is when
great source of inspiration or just a
potential. 2023 is gonna be your
we feel closest to our roots.
way to get your mind in the
year to thrive!”
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Design: Nikki Cole • Photo Editing: Tyler Amaral • Writing: Veronica Good
W
orld traveler, world
dance took him to Taiwan
dancer Michael
for the Jolin Tsai Ugly
Metuakore has seen
Beauty Tour. Michael was
so many stages and sets
particularly excited about
across his career. Born in
the last item on the list. “It’s
New Zealand where he
the last run of the tour, so
found his love of dance and
it’s going to be a special
music, Michael has let his
one for all of the fans.”
passion and art take him from country to country on
LIFE ON TOUR
tours and residencies with incredible artists. We had
Cheering audiences are
to find out how he does it
one of Michael’s favorite
all and what he’s learned
parts of touring. He says
dancing internationally.
those moments “kick start the adrenaline” and are
BUSY DAY
the “perfect energy boost
Photography: Provided by Michael Metuakore • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
before a show” (and at Michael knows to start
the end). These are the
the day strong. Morning
moments he lives for
coffee, calendar, and emails
on those long days that
are first-thing. Unload the
take him from the gym
dishwasher and make the
to rehearsals to dressing
bed before heading to the
rooms to stages to bed
gym. His essentials? Good
and back again (often with
food and snacks, lots of
buses, flights, and light
water, and, later on, a
sight-seeing in between).
midday nap. Beyond the stage, After that, Michael is often
Michael thrives off
in rehearsals for six to eight
of the relationships
hours. And the day still isn’t
that he makes on the
over! Michael is unpacking
road. Those “lifetime
or repacking for the next
relationships” are where
stop on a tour, cooling down,
Michael has found
getting dinner and a shower,
his dance family. “We
and catching up with his
really get to know one
boyfriend Carlos before
another on and off the
heading to bed.
floor. The unity that comes with dancing
When we talk to Michael
with each other for so
about his day, he’s in
long we automatically
rehearsals for Dove
pick up on each other’s
Cameron’s I-Heart Radio
-isms. We know each
Jingle Ball Tour and
other’s strengths and
preparing for the CrossFit
weaknesses to push each
Open 2023. (He’s a fitness
other to deliver the best
buff, too!) In December 2022
performance."
LESSONS FROM
he ever left home. “I
dance has been “eye-
“It’s allowed me to live in
MICHAEL'S TRAVELS
was always surrounded
opening, soul-opening,
every moment, immerse
by music and dance
identity-opening. It’s
myself in as many
“You always have to
growing up from a very
made me reflect a lot
cultures and be very
be on it when you’re
young age,” he told us.
on where I come from,
grateful that this is a life
on a set and be
“It wasn’t your classical
the sacrifices I made,
I get to live. To see the
adaptable and quick
jazz or ballet but Cook
and the hard work I put
world and dance.”
to any changes that
Island and Maori music
in. To remind me to stay
are thrown your way.”
and dance” Michael’s
proud and be present in
Tel Aviv, Israel is
This is a major lesson
dance beginnings were
every opportunity I get.
Michael’s favorite place
Michael learned on
closely tied to his culture,
Be grateful that I get to
dance has taken him so
one of his first music
and although he didn’t
live my dream every
far—where he actually
video shoots.
take his first dance
day and with every
floated in the Dead Sea—
class until he was 16,
new opportunity comes
but he shared that a big
With long rehearsals
he found his way into
something new. It makes
goal for him is actually to
and major projects
school productions and
me nervous, it makes
dance in New Zealand.
that can take days
local competitions while
me excited, and it puts
“[I] still have not had the
or even months to
learning the moves in
me in the moment every
opportunity to dance
complete, there are
his favorite music videos
single time.”
back home with an
so many people and
(specifically Janet
artist. It’s my last dance
places to learn from.
Jackson and S Club 7).
bucket list goal, and
Michael regularly
I’m manifesting that it’s
draws inspiration
going to happen.”
from music—“Music has a natural ability to make you feel something.”—and tried to get in a dance class when he can, but working is where he learns the most. “You’re learning new material in a short amount of time. You’re surrounded by new faces and new energy, so you push yourself. It’s a very rewarding feeling in the end.”
You never know where Now, Michael is often
Dance expanded
Michael might end up, but
far from home. Dance
Michael’s world beyond
a big part of 2023 will be
AROUND THE WORLD
has taken him across
Tokoroa, New Zealand
returning to Las Vegas
(AND BACK)
the United States and
where he grew up. “I
with Katy Perry for her
the world with top
only ever saw the world
Play residency starting
Dance has taken
artists like Katy Perry,
on the TV or in books
in February. He says he is
Michael around the
Bebe Rexha, J Lo, J
and never thought I
“blessed to have another
world, but his passion
Balvin, and Britney
would be touring the
year with the Katy Perry
started long before
Spears. Traveling with
world dancing,” he said.
fam and fans.”
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Photography: Pottery Barn Teen, Shutterstock • Design: Nikki Cole • Writing: Veronica Good
20-year-old actor Jenna Ortega
'just for a little bit' [...] and now I'm
is truly a creative at heart. From
20 years old and I've been doing
her start in acting until now, she
it for over half my life."
Photography: Paras Griffin, Reynaud Julien Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
has taken on characters from all walks of life. We dove into Jenna’s
Since that monologue book
work as an actor from Disney
performance, Jenna has seen
shows to the horror projects she is
many sides of the industry from
now known for, how she became
Old Navy Commercials to Disney’s
Wednesday Addams, and more.
Stuck in the Middle, but she’s found herself at home in horror. “I love
ACTING
horror films,” Jenna told Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show. “I
Every actor has their origin story,
don't know what it is...it really is so
and Jenna’s is pretty unique. “I
therapeutic, so much fun.”
begged my mom for years. I first wanted to start acting when I
WEDNESDAY
was 6 years old. My parents said 'no way..'” she told Wired in an
It’s safe to say we’d like to spend
autocomplete interview.
time on-set with Jenna any day of the week, but her big role right
That "no" wasn’t the end of Jenna’s
now is, of course, Wednesday. The
aspirations. “One day my mom got
Addams’ family reboot, directed by
me this monologue book that she
Tim Burton, actually premiered on
got from Barnes & Noble to shut
a Wednesday, and it seems like it’s
me up like, 'Here. Play.' And I did
all we’ve been talking about since.
a dramatic monologue for her where I was hysterically crying,
Jenna of course plays the
and she didn't know where it
titular character Wednesday
was coming from or what I was
Addams bringing back
talking about. And I told her, this
the iconic black braids,
is from the monologue book that
Peter Pan collars and
you got me. This is what you told
unblinking stare while
me to do." A casting director saw
giving us more of
a video of Jenna repeating this
Wednesday than
performance and wanted to sign
we’ve ever seen
her. Her mom said she could act
before.
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Beyond the show, Jenna has
are very separate. “We never once
Romania. Even the Nancy Reagan
connections to Wednesday Addams.
mentioned Wednesday.”
High School scenes from the start
She shared with Access Hollywood
of the show were filmed at the FILMING AROUND THE WORLD
Politehnica University of Bucharest.
sense of humor, and I think that if
Jenna may be a born Cali kid from
“I didn’t know much about
you got to know me, you would find
Coachella-Valley, but her acting
Romania. I was very happy when
that I’m very negative, depressing at
career has taken her around the
I heard that we were going to
times. I don’t know. I’ve always kind
world. While many of our recent
spend several months there
of turned towards darker things.”
favorite shows and movies have
for the shooting of the series,”
that she’s been compared to her character before. “I have a very dry
been filmed in Los Angeles and
Jenna shared with EnVols. “All I
Jenna is actually the seventh actor
Hollywood, you might be surprised
knew about the country was its
to play Wednesday on screen. A
to find how far from home some
connection to Dracula, its many
former Wednesday, Christina Ricci is
stories take your favorite actors.
castles and things like that […] What
also in the cast as Marilyn Thornhill,
was very cool was that we shot
dorm mom and botanical sciences
One of those faraway places is
in real castles. It was so beautiful.
teacher to Jenna’s Wednesday.
home to our new favorite school of
Everything looked photoshopped,
outcasts. Wednesday’s Nevermore
sometimes I couldn’t believe that
"I've always been a fan of her
Academy and Jericho weren’t
these were real natural settings.”
work, and of course, it all started
filmed in Vermont even though
with Wednesday, so I think it was
that’s where the show takes place.
Before that, Jenna filmed X in New
a little intimidating definitely
The show was filmed in Romania!
Zealand. She actually auditioned
trying to be Wednesday in front
for Wednesday via Zoom while
of Wednesday or somebody
Castles over 100 years old–
on-location. Also a big part of the
that I've always looked at as that
including Cantacuzino Castle
continuation of the Scream horror
character,” Jenna told Access
in Bușteni, Palatul Monteoru
movies, Scream VI which comes out
Hollywood. She also shared
in central Romania, and Casa
in March 2023 was filmed in Canada.
that she admired Christina’s
Niculescu-Dorobantu in Bucharest–
professionalism and talent as an
became the exterior and interior
actress. They didn’t exchange
of Nevermore. Those aren’t the
any character opinions or ideas,
only locations, though. Filming
Beyond her world travels Jenna,
though. These two Wednesdays
took the cast and crew all over
who is of Mexican and Puerto
REPRESENTATION IN FILM
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Rican heritage, is happy to see the ways that her characters, including Wednesday Addams and her Scream character Tara Carpenter might inspire or impact viewers. Jenna and Luis Guzmán, who plays her on-screen dad Gomez Addams, met up to share their favorite foods and talk about Wednesday on Netflix’s web series Taste Buds. While they were eating Jenna’s favorite tacos and guacamole and Luis’ favorite arroz con habichuelas (rice and beans) with pork chops and amarillos (yellow bananas). Over their food, they talked about their favorite memories from the show and what representation in Wednesday means for Latinx people. "I think it's pretty special for me just because growing up, I didn't really have a lot of representation on screen." Jenna said. "I remember for my fifth birthday, I actually asked my mom for a box of blonde hair dye, because I wanted to dye my hair blonde so that I could look like Cinderella. If you don't have someone that you can relate to or somebody that’s telling your story, it can be very discouraging." Jenna has been filming backto-back projects, so we’ll be seeing even more of her in 2023. Everyone is, of course, keeping their fingers crossed for a second season of Wednesday for more mysteries, magic, and surprises.
Photography: Shutterstock • Design: Holly Childs
2
The name of Kiki Holli's new album
1
Dancer Daniel Soto is from this South American country.
5
Ciara Riley Wilson is an actor, dancer, and singer, but also wants to be a designer.
3
Ashleigh Bennet has danced at this company for five years.
4
You can thrift unique styles in Oxford Circus, found in this city.
6
Alexa Gutierrez-Sierra went viral on social media with a dance from this hit Netflix show.
5
The oldest ballet company was founded in this country in 1669.
10
Santiago Carrera lived in this Mexican city until he was 4.
7
Bianca and Chiara D'Ambrosio will be the lead of this spinoff of The Bay.
11
Aaliyah Cinello plays Charley on this show.
8
This city in Israel is Michael Metuakore's favorite place to dance.
15
Kylie Cantrall's zodiac sign
9
Daire McLeod plays Charli Allen on this new Apple TV+ series.
16
Frederikke Lonberg was born in this European country.
12
Belly dance was originally founded in this African country.
17
Isidora Villagra won Episode 1 of this dance show.
13
Jenna Ortega filmed many Wednesday scenes in this country.
19
The study of plants; What Dana Heath wants to study
14
Tyra Polke is fluent in English as well as this language.
20
Triple Charm released their single "Don't Need a Reason" during _______ Heritage Month.
18
Imogen Cohen plays this character in The Fairly Odd Parents: Fairly Odder.
21
Pink-inspired trend; Magnified by Margot Robbie's new film
HINT: Use articles in this magazine to find the answers!
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Aquarius
PISCES
ARIES
(1/20-2/18)
(2/19-3/20)
(3/21-4/19)
City Inspo: Stockholm, Sweden
City Inspo: Barcelona, Spain
City Inspo: Rome, Italy
Like the land of Greta Thunberg and Alfred Nobel (founder of the Nobel Prize), you strive to make a positive impact on the world. Your curiosity will guide you this spring as a new opportunity to make a difference presents itself. You can’t do it alone, though! Be sure to seek out other humanitarians to help you with your goal!
From the architecture to the coastline, there’s no city quite as lively as Barcelona. This spring, that same energy will flow through you. You’ll find yourself wanting to take up new interests, meet new people, and be more creative than ever! You may end up exhausted from all the excitement, though, so be sure to nourish yourself with self-care (and tapas!).
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your life plan can’t be either! As an Aries, you tend to be a bit hasty in your decisions. It’s more important than ever right now that you pause to weigh your options before making any big moves. Slowing down isn’t the same as stopping, though. Don't let it discourage your Aries enthusiasm!
LEO
VIRGO
LIBRA
(7/22-8/22)
(8/23-9/22)
(9/23-10/22)
City Inspo: Paris, France
City Inspo: Sydney, Australia
City Inspo: Lucerne, Switzerland
Ah, the land of the Louvre! Paris is known for its art and beauty, but, like their bobs, some say the people can be a little blunt. You can be the same way sometimes, Leo, getting straight to the point with those around you. But that’s not all you are—you have more layers than a Maison Pichard croissant so be sure to display your soft side this Spring!
You tend to be overly critical of your beauty, Virgo, and that can keep you from opportunities that could benefit you. This spring, instead of telling yourself “naur!” when you want to put yourself out there, rely on your innate humor and wit to guide the way. The Sydney Opera House isn't just beautiful from the outside, you know!
You’re sweeter than Swiss chocolate, Libra, but that can sometimes leave you susceptible to people who don’t exactly have your best interest at heart. Keep your eyes open this spring for deception—and if you find more holes in someone’s story than Swiss cheese… don't hesitate, just get out of there!
Photography: Shutterstock • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
*for entertainment purposes only
CELEB BIRTHDAYS Florence Pugh January 3
Noah Centineo May 9
Jenna Ortega September 27
Miley Cyrus November 23
Madelyn Cline December 21
TAURUS
GEMINI
CANCER
(4/20-5/20)
(5/21-6/20)
(6/21-7/22)
City Inspo: Tokyo, Japan
City Inspo: Bali, Indonesia
City Inspo: Santiago, Chile
Tokyo is known for its tech, and an opportunity will soon present itself where you can use technology to make a big difference in your life (and others’!). Keep up on new trends to see where you can use your talents to create something amazing. It’ll be definitely be hard work, but your Taurus endurance will keep you reaching towards your goal!
There’s a reason why Bali is on everyone’s travel radar lately! It’s not only known for its beauty, but also how welcoming and friendly everyone is! You’ll have to channel that Bali-esque charm this spring when you have a chance at making some new friends. Be openminded, though, they may be a bit different than who you normally hang with.
Chile has a bit of everything— beaches, mountains, ice fields, deserts, and even volcanoes. While you think you know exactly who you are—this spring you will discover even more depths to your identity. The shift in mindset might be scary at first, especially as someone who is used to things being one way, but thanks to your adaptability, you’ll adjust!
SCORPIO
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
(10/23-11/21)
(11/22-12/21)
(12/22-1/19)
City Inspo: Cairo, Egypt
City Inspo: Isle of Skye, Scotland
City Inspo: Prague, Czech Republic
Have you ever wondered how the pyramids were built? Brick by brick. Your passion has already gotten you so far, Scorpio, but things aren’t moving quite as quickly as you’d like them to. Try to be gentle with yourself with spring and recognize all the hard work you’ve put in thus far. Big things are coming, they just take time!
You have no trouble stopping and appreciating the scenery, Sag. And you love it most when you can visualize as far as the eye can see. But it isn't always that easy. Things might get a little foggy this spring and you may not be able to see your next step quite as clearly as you want to. But have faith in your path and keep going!
Did you know there are surfers right in the middle of the city of Prague? There aren’t any oceans… but they’ve found a way. You’ll have to channel that same energy this Spring as you ride the waves of a situation that isn’t ideal. Have no doubt, though, your careful Capricorn planning will eventually lead to you keeping everything in Czech.
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