Showstopper Magazine - 13th Issue - International Issue

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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



I

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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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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