So, I can officially say that I'm a semi-finalist for the 2009-2010 Knick's City Dancers. I auditioned yesterday and made it through 2 rounds. I'm so beyond excited, I don't even know a word that can describe how I am feeling. I want this so bad and think it would be such a great opportunity!
When I heard about the auditions last year I immediately dismissed it because I thought I wouldn't be good enough. I didn't even go to the class at BDC because I thought it would be too hard. I should not have doubted myself, but that is something that I always do...unfortunately. Anyways, this year I got into the mode of wanted to be a part of a dance team and when the Knick's audition date was released I knew I was going to go for it.
Originally I thought I would just take the Audition Workshop class and then go to the audition. Well, after taking that class I realized that if I really wanted to be on the team I would have to do a lot more to prepare myself. I decided to enroll in the KCD clinic, which was last week, and also restrict myself to only taking jazz and hip hop classes until the audition. I wanted my body to get used to movement that would be similar to the type of dance the KCD girls do. The clinic was by far the best preparation for this audition. Not only did I learn the choreography for the first 2 rounds, I also had a week to prepare before the actual audition. What a great deal!? I couldn't stop thanking them because the clinic is like getting a review sheet for a test you are going to have in school!
One thing the clinic didn't helpt me with was my nerves! I was SO nervous even though I knew what to expect. During the first round, which was an across the floor combination, I was already feeling butterflies in my stomach! After I went across and received my wristband(yes!), the coach told me to be more sharp with my movement. That stuck with me the whole day. I wanted to show her I could take corrections and apply them instantly.
Learning the combination again was a good opportunity for me to focus on details that I didn not notice at the clinic. They went through the dance thoroughly and gave us a good amount of time to get it into our minds. When it was finally my turn to perform, all I could here was the music, my mind thinking "don't be sloppy," and my breath! haha. It felt so internal; it felt like no one was around me and I was going for it.
The hardest part was the wait. I was really nervous. I received good feedback from my friends but I didn't know if the judges felt the same way. When they called the numbers it was out of order so I had no idea if I was going to be called. When I finally heard my number, 908, I wanted to cry. I was so happy; I couldn't even think! Ugh, it felt so good! After that we had pictures and interviews and the day was over.
This happened yesterday; today is the second day of auditions. We are going to be learning a hip hop routine from Shane Sparks! (He's been a judge and choreographer on So You Think You Can Dance). I 'm really excited and of course nervous. I really want to show them that I have what it takes to be a Knicks City Dancer!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Here's to one of the greats.
RIP Michael Jackson 6/25/09
I don't think there is anyone in the world that can honestly say they have had no connection to Michael Jackson. His legacy extends across all genres of music that interests kids and adults. Yes, it is sad that he is gone at such a young age but I truly believe, after discussing this at work last night, that even if he were 90 yrs old, the world would still grieve. That is how far his legacy extends.
When I try to think of my favorite song, at first I said "Heal the World" but then I thought about the beauty behind the songs like "Man in the Mirror." And then there's the hypnotizing beats of "Bad," "Beat it," "Don't Stop til You Get Enough," and of course "Thriller." But, honestly, the list just continues and then its just brings sadness because you realize how influential he was.
What I'm already enjoying in light of the situation is the coming together of people as the reminisce about Michael Jackson whether through sharing stories or even just putting on his music and dancing. You know how most people are feeling when you hear his songs now. I was in the cab last night with 4 other people and the radio was playing his songs. Without having to say anything, we all knew how each other was feeling. Like L.A. Reid said, "lets turn down the chatting and turn up the music." I love that. I'm hoping for just a few days, or even better, as long as possible that the world comes together because of their love of his music. There's been news coverage of gatherings in LA and NY with people just blasting his music and dancing. What a beautiful image. It represents an absence of all the troubles in the world and personal pains. They are just living in the moment.
Thinking of all his songs makes me wish I learned during the height of his career when he was dominating the charts. How great it would have been to live during that moment that he was creating his legacy. I love all his music and I love that the media is playing it all over the news and radio. With one soundtrack, we all come together. Even if just for a day, I'm glad to experience it.
Here are few quotes I can't help but document:
I don't think there is anyone in the world that can honestly say they have had no connection to Michael Jackson. His legacy extends across all genres of music that interests kids and adults. Yes, it is sad that he is gone at such a young age but I truly believe, after discussing this at work last night, that even if he were 90 yrs old, the world would still grieve. That is how far his legacy extends.
When I try to think of my favorite song, at first I said "Heal the World" but then I thought about the beauty behind the songs like "Man in the Mirror." And then there's the hypnotizing beats of "Bad," "Beat it," "Don't Stop til You Get Enough," and of course "Thriller." But, honestly, the list just continues and then its just brings sadness because you realize how influential he was.
What I'm already enjoying in light of the situation is the coming together of people as the reminisce about Michael Jackson whether through sharing stories or even just putting on his music and dancing. You know how most people are feeling when you hear his songs now. I was in the cab last night with 4 other people and the radio was playing his songs. Without having to say anything, we all knew how each other was feeling. Like L.A. Reid said, "lets turn down the chatting and turn up the music." I love that. I'm hoping for just a few days, or even better, as long as possible that the world comes together because of their love of his music. There's been news coverage of gatherings in LA and NY with people just blasting his music and dancing. What a beautiful image. It represents an absence of all the troubles in the world and personal pains. They are just living in the moment.
Thinking of all his songs makes me wish I learned during the height of his career when he was dominating the charts. How great it would have been to live during that moment that he was creating his legacy. I love all his music and I love that the media is playing it all over the news and radio. With one soundtrack, we all come together. Even if just for a day, I'm glad to experience it.
Here are few quotes I can't help but document:
"He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever."-Quincy Jones
JAMES BROWN 12-25 ♥ AALIYAH 8-25 ♥ LEFT EYE 4-25 ♥ MICHEAL JACKSON 6-25 ♥ (from Kai's facebook status) interesting right?
"Ed Mcmahon passed first this week so he can introduce tonights guest. Ms.Farrah Fawcett w/musical guest Michael Jackson" (Sherri Shephard's twitter)
So sad. He may be gone physically, but his spirit is alive through his musicSaturday, May 23, 2009
Next stop, the real world
Well, this was what my blog was for and now it's finally here. I've officially graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with a BA in Communications! Yesterday I attended the Baccalaureate and Graduation Ceremony and received my "diploma." It's not really a diploma but actually just the cover with a note that says in 90 days I will receive my actually documentation proving my graduation. It was even more exciting to have my family and friends there with me to witness such a big event.
As much as this is a monumental moment, I've been very relaxed. Graduating doesn't come as a surprise but actually a natural progression. The timing is right. I was able to transfer and still graduate on time and I'm really happy about that; that was something that was really important to me.
I just realized that I must comment on the speakers who addressed our graduating class. Aside from teachers we also had honorees such as Carla Harris and one of the heads of Channel 13, can't remember his name. They, in addition to our valevictorian and guest speaker were so motivational. All of them stressed the importance of making a difference in the world and how we had the power to do so. After hearing that so much I began to believe that that is possible and attainable given the success of the speakers. I feel like I hear all the time that we have the power to change but I don't usually listen to it enough to actually believe it. I left the graduation feeling really motivated to go after my dreams and enjoy my life. I guess because this is truly the moment in life where change occurs that I feel I have the ability to "make it happen." I'm ready. I don't want to look back and say that I didn't get to do a laundry list of things; now is the time.
This last week has also marked an end to seeing many of my closest friends because of both graduations and the end of the Ailey school year. Some of my friends are flying home to their prospective countries with no current intent on returning to America besides a vacation in the future. It's sad because aside from being friends with them, many were subjects in my senior thesis that focused on International Dancers and their journey to America for dance education and training. I became so much closer with them as I learned about their various backgrounds and individual journey's to America for the same goal; to dance. They've each inspired me to look into traveling and seeing the world from a different perspective.
So in addition to graduation fesitivities and getting ready for a family/friends BBQ at my home on LI, this morning I attended the In the Heights workshop at BDC with assistant latin choreographer Luis Salgado. I went last month right after I had seen the show and didn't want to pass the opportunity to attend again. This time my friend Rie came with me. It was even MORE fun than the last time. We learned the opening number from In The Heights.
I appreciate the opportunity to get an insight into a Broadway show and that's what Luis gave us. He didn't just teach us the choreography but actually worked more on giving us an understanding of the characters within the show and what they are fighting for. It was the message behind the movement. I really enjoyed myself so much. Once again its that atmosphere that helps me enjoy myself. Initially it is intimidating to be in the presence of someone who is a sucessful performer but Luis's casual, "Lets Have Fun" approach really helps you relax and just pay attention to enjoying what you are doing in that moment. I'm glad I went.
Now, I'm back on Long Island getting ready for my graduation BBQ tomorrow as my parents frantically try to find a party tent in the event that it rains.
Picture post soon!
As much as this is a monumental moment, I've been very relaxed. Graduating doesn't come as a surprise but actually a natural progression. The timing is right. I was able to transfer and still graduate on time and I'm really happy about that; that was something that was really important to me.
I just realized that I must comment on the speakers who addressed our graduating class. Aside from teachers we also had honorees such as Carla Harris and one of the heads of Channel 13, can't remember his name. They, in addition to our valevictorian and guest speaker were so motivational. All of them stressed the importance of making a difference in the world and how we had the power to do so. After hearing that so much I began to believe that that is possible and attainable given the success of the speakers. I feel like I hear all the time that we have the power to change but I don't usually listen to it enough to actually believe it. I left the graduation feeling really motivated to go after my dreams and enjoy my life. I guess because this is truly the moment in life where change occurs that I feel I have the ability to "make it happen." I'm ready. I don't want to look back and say that I didn't get to do a laundry list of things; now is the time.
This last week has also marked an end to seeing many of my closest friends because of both graduations and the end of the Ailey school year. Some of my friends are flying home to their prospective countries with no current intent on returning to America besides a vacation in the future. It's sad because aside from being friends with them, many were subjects in my senior thesis that focused on International Dancers and their journey to America for dance education and training. I became so much closer with them as I learned about their various backgrounds and individual journey's to America for the same goal; to dance. They've each inspired me to look into traveling and seeing the world from a different perspective.
So in addition to graduation fesitivities and getting ready for a family/friends BBQ at my home on LI, this morning I attended the In the Heights workshop at BDC with assistant latin choreographer Luis Salgado. I went last month right after I had seen the show and didn't want to pass the opportunity to attend again. This time my friend Rie came with me. It was even MORE fun than the last time. We learned the opening number from In The Heights.
I appreciate the opportunity to get an insight into a Broadway show and that's what Luis gave us. He didn't just teach us the choreography but actually worked more on giving us an understanding of the characters within the show and what they are fighting for. It was the message behind the movement. I really enjoyed myself so much. Once again its that atmosphere that helps me enjoy myself. Initially it is intimidating to be in the presence of someone who is a sucessful performer but Luis's casual, "Lets Have Fun" approach really helps you relax and just pay attention to enjoying what you are doing in that moment. I'm glad I went.
Now, I'm back on Long Island getting ready for my graduation BBQ tomorrow as my parents frantically try to find a party tent in the event that it rains.
Picture post soon!
All The Way
I'm going to have to make 2 entries because I have so many things to talk about but don't want to put it all in one post.
Rewind a few weeks:
Following the Radio City call, the following Monday I went to the Norwegian Cruise Line audition. I wasn't too nervous beforehand. Lately, when I got to auditions I'm usually calm before hand; it's dependent on the atmosphere at the audition of whether or not I will be nervous. From the moment I stepped into the studio I knew I was going to have fun. The choreographer was incredibly high spirited and it felt as if he was most interested in us enjoying ourselves and getting into the movement. I loved that. I felt like I was on a team again and our coach was getting us ready for competition.
The combination brought flashbacks to dance teams in the past because of the speed and precision of the movement. My body had to basically wake itself up and remind itself how to move in that manner. Once I started to understand the movement, I really got into it. It was a lot of fun and not THAT many people. That was most shocking to me but maybe that was due in part to the fact that there were 2 days of auditions and you were only needed at one. I want to say there were about 50people there. Of course we were packed in the room but I didn't mind for the most part.
We did the combination a lot and only a few with music since we kept messing it up with our thumping feet when we lept!...leaped?..whatever. But the choreographer was so into it that he just made his own beats and that was awesome.
After splitting into groups a few times, we auditioned, I forget, maybe 4 at a time. I felt pretty good about the combination for the most part but I used facials (that is a shocker for me; I've been working on that!) to help add to the movement. Thankfully, I made it past the first cut. I think there were about 15-20 of us after the cut and we immediately moved on.
Another "thanks" is needed because THANKFULLY, I've been taking tap at Ailey and low and behold the next part was just a quick tap combo, in jazz shoes, to see if we could imitate it. I did pretty well. I loved it! I was so happy because a few of the auditions I've been to have had tap elements in them and I've been able to hold my own. Yay! After the tap we did the combination again and then split into trios and danced on camera. We also went through the whole "say your name, where you are from, etc" schpeel(sp?)
Once we finished they gave us the rundown of life on the ship and the next process before getting on the ship. Everyone was so nice and it was such a comfortable atmosphere; it felt like we were our own little cast already. I had a great time!
Moving up to last week, I got to see West Side Story! Thank you Danielle! I was soo soo happy because I wanted to see it so bad. I absolutely loved every minute of it. It was very sad though but I appreciate the artistic ending even past the curtain call with the somberness that occured onstage.
I loved the choreography and exactness each dancer has with their movement. They were all incredibly sync; and from what I've heard about the choreographer, its no surprise. They looked great. And, can we please talk about the amazingness that is Karen Olivo. I really hope she gets the Tony Award! I've seen her progress so much from BKLYN to In the Heights to West Side Story. She is truly making a name for herself on Broadway.
And now on to the next post....
Rewind a few weeks:
Following the Radio City call, the following Monday I went to the Norwegian Cruise Line audition. I wasn't too nervous beforehand. Lately, when I got to auditions I'm usually calm before hand; it's dependent on the atmosphere at the audition of whether or not I will be nervous. From the moment I stepped into the studio I knew I was going to have fun. The choreographer was incredibly high spirited and it felt as if he was most interested in us enjoying ourselves and getting into the movement. I loved that. I felt like I was on a team again and our coach was getting us ready for competition.
The combination brought flashbacks to dance teams in the past because of the speed and precision of the movement. My body had to basically wake itself up and remind itself how to move in that manner. Once I started to understand the movement, I really got into it. It was a lot of fun and not THAT many people. That was most shocking to me but maybe that was due in part to the fact that there were 2 days of auditions and you were only needed at one. I want to say there were about 50people there. Of course we were packed in the room but I didn't mind for the most part.
We did the combination a lot and only a few with music since we kept messing it up with our thumping feet when we lept!...leaped?..whatever. But the choreographer was so into it that he just made his own beats and that was awesome.
After splitting into groups a few times, we auditioned, I forget, maybe 4 at a time. I felt pretty good about the combination for the most part but I used facials (that is a shocker for me; I've been working on that!) to help add to the movement. Thankfully, I made it past the first cut. I think there were about 15-20 of us after the cut and we immediately moved on.
Another "thanks" is needed because THANKFULLY, I've been taking tap at Ailey and low and behold the next part was just a quick tap combo, in jazz shoes, to see if we could imitate it. I did pretty well. I loved it! I was so happy because a few of the auditions I've been to have had tap elements in them and I've been able to hold my own. Yay! After the tap we did the combination again and then split into trios and danced on camera. We also went through the whole "say your name, where you are from, etc" schpeel(sp?)
Once we finished they gave us the rundown of life on the ship and the next process before getting on the ship. Everyone was so nice and it was such a comfortable atmosphere; it felt like we were our own little cast already. I had a great time!
Moving up to last week, I got to see West Side Story! Thank you Danielle! I was soo soo happy because I wanted to see it so bad. I absolutely loved every minute of it. It was very sad though but I appreciate the artistic ending even past the curtain call with the somberness that occured onstage.
I loved the choreography and exactness each dancer has with their movement. They were all incredibly sync; and from what I've heard about the choreographer, its no surprise. They looked great. And, can we please talk about the amazingness that is Karen Olivo. I really hope she gets the Tony Award! I've seen her progress so much from BKLYN to In the Heights to West Side Story. She is truly making a name for herself on Broadway.
And now on to the next post....
Monday, May 4, 2009
Filling my heart with Christmas.
Yesterday I saw Shrek and before I get into todays events, I must write briefly about it. After much thought, I would give the show a 2 1/2 borderline 3 stars. There were some really high points, such as the overly fantastic sets/scene designs and technological aspects. The really lows were the content. I kept having to change my thoughts between viewing the show as a kids show and then switching to viewing it as an adult show. Both are incredibly different and that it the source for one of the main problems with this musical. It cannot differentiate its target audience.
In terms of the actors. I just loved Christopher Seiber(sp?) and Daniel Breaker who play Lord Farquarrd(sp?) and Donkey, respectively. They really helped keep the show alive for me. While Sutton Foster was good at some point she wasn't consistent, neither was Shrek (pardon my ignorance for not knowing his real name). For Shrek, I wanted a more Shuler Hensley-type person to play the part. Someone with a more deeper louder voice. This guy had a great singing voice but he sounded very American Idol and it's hard to invision that when he is supposed to be an ogre.
What I did love was the tap scene; of course. That was probably one of the best moments of the show in addition the the Three Blind Mice. That part was hilarious/offensive. I was dying with laughter. I also really liked seeing all the fairy tale characters but for some reason aside from enjoying their costumes, they weren't memorable.
I still haven't decided yet whether or not I truly enjoyed the show. I'm on the fence. I will admit, however, that it was very cute. But, content-wise, not so much.
Today was the audition for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. My friend and I got up bright and early to attend the audition and ended up running into several familiar faces while we were there.
We were in the second group and were lucky enough to get out of the rain after maybe only a 30 minute wait. But, when we were in the waiting rooms we were there for at least an hour and a half. When we finally went, the first thing I thought about was that this was going to be a different experience then any audition I had been to in the past. I knew that precision was key so I tried to focus on the details when they were teaching. We learned a short combo from which, judging by the music and my memory of the show, seemed like it was the finale piece but I could be wrong. It had a very "wish on a star-dream big" kind of feel. After we learned the combo we were split into three groups. Everything went very fast and before I knew it I was told to go to the holding room until further notice. Both me and my friend and a few other people I know made it past first cut.
We waited around for I'm guessing another hour and a half or 2 hours for all the other groups to finish before heading back in for the 2nd cut. This time we learned a combo that preceeded the first combo. This time we were with everyone including agva members which I am assuming some or many were from past seasons. I watched them as they moved taking note of what movements they accented and what they suspended. I eventually went and thought I did decently but when the names were called, mine wasn't one of them. But, my friends was! I was so happy for her because I knew that ballet/pointe was next and she would surely rock it! She has a call back tomorrow and I can't wait to hear how it goes. Of course I'm bummed I didn't make it to the tuesday call back but this was an experience that I had been waiting for since who knows when so to finally be able to audition was enough to last me for quite a while ;-) I'm proud once again that I am clearly progessing seeing as I am able to get past first cuts. My goal now is to get even further....oh and to learn to dance in character heels! I'm so happy they were open to non-character shoes because I really didn't want my first time in character heels to be for an audition...
until the next one.
In terms of the actors. I just loved Christopher Seiber(sp?) and Daniel Breaker who play Lord Farquarrd(sp?) and Donkey, respectively. They really helped keep the show alive for me. While Sutton Foster was good at some point she wasn't consistent, neither was Shrek (pardon my ignorance for not knowing his real name). For Shrek, I wanted a more Shuler Hensley-type person to play the part. Someone with a more deeper louder voice. This guy had a great singing voice but he sounded very American Idol and it's hard to invision that when he is supposed to be an ogre.
What I did love was the tap scene; of course. That was probably one of the best moments of the show in addition the the Three Blind Mice. That part was hilarious/offensive. I was dying with laughter. I also really liked seeing all the fairy tale characters but for some reason aside from enjoying their costumes, they weren't memorable.
I still haven't decided yet whether or not I truly enjoyed the show. I'm on the fence. I will admit, however, that it was very cute. But, content-wise, not so much.
Today was the audition for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. My friend and I got up bright and early to attend the audition and ended up running into several familiar faces while we were there.
We were in the second group and were lucky enough to get out of the rain after maybe only a 30 minute wait. But, when we were in the waiting rooms we were there for at least an hour and a half. When we finally went, the first thing I thought about was that this was going to be a different experience then any audition I had been to in the past. I knew that precision was key so I tried to focus on the details when they were teaching. We learned a short combo from which, judging by the music and my memory of the show, seemed like it was the finale piece but I could be wrong. It had a very "wish on a star-dream big" kind of feel. After we learned the combo we were split into three groups. Everything went very fast and before I knew it I was told to go to the holding room until further notice. Both me and my friend and a few other people I know made it past first cut.
We waited around for I'm guessing another hour and a half or 2 hours for all the other groups to finish before heading back in for the 2nd cut. This time we learned a combo that preceeded the first combo. This time we were with everyone including agva members which I am assuming some or many were from past seasons. I watched them as they moved taking note of what movements they accented and what they suspended. I eventually went and thought I did decently but when the names were called, mine wasn't one of them. But, my friends was! I was so happy for her because I knew that ballet/pointe was next and she would surely rock it! She has a call back tomorrow and I can't wait to hear how it goes. Of course I'm bummed I didn't make it to the tuesday call back but this was an experience that I had been waiting for since who knows when so to finally be able to audition was enough to last me for quite a while ;-) I'm proud once again that I am clearly progessing seeing as I am able to get past first cuts. My goal now is to get even further....oh and to learn to dance in character heels! I'm so happy they were open to non-character shoes because I really didn't want my first time in character heels to be for an audition...
until the next one.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
My First Callback
While it is still fresh in my mind, I need to talk about today's audition. I auditioned for the Norwegian Cruise Line today at Ripley Grier. I love those studios so much more than Chelsea. Yea Chelsea Studios is nicer in terms of the actual studio, but the atmosphere at Ripley Grier is nicer.
I believe we were auditioning for a specific show and the choreographer was Patricia Wilcox. Now immediately when she said this, I recognized her name but didn't know from where. It bugged me all day and I finally goggled her and realized she teaches at Steps. I knew I knew her name from somewhere. I loved her choreography so I plan on taking her at some point.
Anyways...what was different from my usual auditions was that I was incredibly calm. I was in the second group, number 39, and was pretty relaxed throughout. Even when the first group was going and girls were peaking in and discussing the combo, I chose to ignore it and just wait for my turn. I think I really loved this combo because it was more of jazz dance that felt like modern dance. Her images were basically describing us as getting ready to pounce and that was just what the choreography was like. It was very animalistic and empowering. I loved it. While we were doing the choreography she sought me out and commented that I should watch my focus at this one part. I kept that in mind and combined with a love of the choreography and no nerves, I got a callback. I couldn't believe it. But really what I couldn't believe was the still calm demeanor I had. I thought if I ever got a call back I would scream or jump up and down but no I just accepted what was said and thought about the next task.
I'm happy that I finally reached the next level. It's a confidence booster. I've been to a handful of auditions but never been able to get over that hump, the callback. Finally being able to do so was rewarding in and of itself. Well, I still had other things to do so I went to school and then went to the callback at 4pm. This time it was weird. We went over the same combo that we had done before and then did it again for them. It was really surprising because other people commented that usually you do something different. Now after this one I didn't get the second callback. Maybe I wasn't what the were looking for but I was so happy that I was actually in an environment that I enjoyed. I wasn't nervous or worried about what was going to happen, I just went with the flow.
I hope I have more auditions like that because they are reassuring. To me, it's not about the fact that I didn't get past the 2nd callback, I got past the first and as of now that's what I'm working on.
I believe we were auditioning for a specific show and the choreographer was Patricia Wilcox. Now immediately when she said this, I recognized her name but didn't know from where. It bugged me all day and I finally goggled her and realized she teaches at Steps. I knew I knew her name from somewhere. I loved her choreography so I plan on taking her at some point.
Anyways...what was different from my usual auditions was that I was incredibly calm. I was in the second group, number 39, and was pretty relaxed throughout. Even when the first group was going and girls were peaking in and discussing the combo, I chose to ignore it and just wait for my turn. I think I really loved this combo because it was more of jazz dance that felt like modern dance. Her images were basically describing us as getting ready to pounce and that was just what the choreography was like. It was very animalistic and empowering. I loved it. While we were doing the choreography she sought me out and commented that I should watch my focus at this one part. I kept that in mind and combined with a love of the choreography and no nerves, I got a callback. I couldn't believe it. But really what I couldn't believe was the still calm demeanor I had. I thought if I ever got a call back I would scream or jump up and down but no I just accepted what was said and thought about the next task.
I'm happy that I finally reached the next level. It's a confidence booster. I've been to a handful of auditions but never been able to get over that hump, the callback. Finally being able to do so was rewarding in and of itself. Well, I still had other things to do so I went to school and then went to the callback at 4pm. This time it was weird. We went over the same combo that we had done before and then did it again for them. It was really surprising because other people commented that usually you do something different. Now after this one I didn't get the second callback. Maybe I wasn't what the were looking for but I was so happy that I was actually in an environment that I enjoyed. I wasn't nervous or worried about what was going to happen, I just went with the flow.
I hope I have more auditions like that because they are reassuring. To me, it's not about the fact that I didn't get past the 2nd callback, I got past the first and as of now that's what I'm working on.
Bloc-ed from Being Seen
I have a lot to update on but I'm going to go in order. Last week was my Spring Break and I planned on using it to figure out what I was going to be doing with my life, corporate wise. Meaning...getting my resume and cover letter ready to send out to different companies. That didn't really work out. I did look for places and set up a temp agency profile(which for some reason isn't activating right...) but I was still on my "I love to dance" high that I focused more on finding auditions to go to rather then focus on those "office jobs." That's a problem because I have less then 2 months til graduation!
Well..I can't change the past so lets jump to Saturday. Oh, Saturday..what a crazy day. I woke up really early and took an In the Heights workshop/random open class, I really don't know what to call it, at BDC. Luis Salgado taught and it was great. I originally felt out of my element having had no prior training in Latin dance but the more he talked about letting go and having fun, the more I was able to actually do so. What a great class it was! We learned part of the "Club" scene. Latin dance is no joke; it is by no means easy. We even did a little partnering section near the end. I had a lot of fun. I definitely plan on expanding my versatility and jumping on the Latin bandwagon. Luis spoke about dance classes from Eddy Torres that are offered in the city. I looked it up and once I end school I will be able to test out the beginner classes. Before that, though, I plan on trying the Latin Jazz at BDC with Maria Torres.
After a great class at BDC, I headed over to Ailey to audition for Bloc Talent Agency. There is so much to say about this day, I don't know where to begin. From the outside some might say it was a complete waste of time but from the things that happened to me I can say that I'm really satisified with how things turned out.
First of all. No matter what anyone says, maybe because I'm a newbie in the business, typecasting sucks. Yea you get out early and aren't misled to thinking you have a shot but, unlike what the coordinator said, IT IS personal..and you do feel bad, lol. The morning audition was for contemporary/musical theater dancers and there were A LOT. We all packed into LLC and were broken into groups to be typecasted. It felt more like a model call then a dance call. When my group went, we stood in 2 lines while they pointed and commented on us(with music blasting which wasn't for dancing but to cover their voices). It was awkward for me because it was unclear whether or not we should smile and acknowledge them or just stand there. Well, needless to say I was typecasted out aka CUT. It was such a surreal feeling because you intially think, "thats it?!?!" I almost would have rathered stayed the whole way thru and actually danced and then got cut. I didn't even move for them. That's the tough part when you are a DANCER. Well, after encouragement from friends I decided to wait around for the hip hop call. Now, I wouldn't call myself a hiphop dancer but I figured maybe I had the look for that one.
I'm really happy I stayed through the madness and long lines for that one because I would have never hung out with my friend Daniel and his friend Corey who was with his friend Tamikko. (did that all make sense). Well I would describe both Corey and Tamikko as veterans slash the know more about the business then newbies. I learned so much about the business from them, specifically Tamikko. From the moment she started talking, I immediately thought in my head that she would be a great person to interview. She's an undeground freestyler who is single-handedly fusing the world of touring and clubbing. Yes, I had to ask her to define both because I had NO idea what she was talking about. From our conversation, she sounds like a beginner legend. She's worked with so many people in the industry and has her own group of girls that she books for gigs. The only thing she is lacking is an agent...which is why she was at the audition.
One of the reasons I was so interested in her story was because, in terms of dance, we are complete opposites. She admitted her weakness was learning choreography and my weakness, that I think EVERYONE knows, is that I cannot improv/freestyle. Her claim to fame is freestyle. The part of our conversation that I can never forget is her talking about how she doesn't understand how people can just reproduce choreography that was just given to them. My response was that I don't understand how someone can turn on music and she can just start moving. I don't know, it was just a really cool conversation. I learned so much. I'm trying to figure out if I will write my final freelance article on her because it was such a fascinating experience.
Back to Bloc. They hiphop call was ridiculous there were like 1000 people there and then told us around 4:30pm, when it was supposed to start, to come back in an hour because they weren't ready. When we came back there was a line outside of Ailey and then were basically hurding us like cattle to walk up to the 6th floor to get looked at and then walk all the way down if we were cut. Well, I was type casting again. Lol...all I can do is laugh because after the entire day it wasn't worth sulking over. I get that that's just the way the business works but jeez it's annoying. I will still apply to them and other agencies because it's just something that can be an asset for dancers looking for dance and commerical work.
Looking back, I'm glad I went to the audition because I was able to get a glimpse of the industry and the competition. Like most people say there will be a thousand No's to the very few Yes's. All I can do is work on my craft and try to increase those Yes's.
Well..I can't change the past so lets jump to Saturday. Oh, Saturday..what a crazy day. I woke up really early and took an In the Heights workshop/random open class, I really don't know what to call it, at BDC. Luis Salgado taught and it was great. I originally felt out of my element having had no prior training in Latin dance but the more he talked about letting go and having fun, the more I was able to actually do so. What a great class it was! We learned part of the "Club" scene. Latin dance is no joke; it is by no means easy. We even did a little partnering section near the end. I had a lot of fun. I definitely plan on expanding my versatility and jumping on the Latin bandwagon. Luis spoke about dance classes from Eddy Torres that are offered in the city. I looked it up and once I end school I will be able to test out the beginner classes. Before that, though, I plan on trying the Latin Jazz at BDC with Maria Torres.
After a great class at BDC, I headed over to Ailey to audition for Bloc Talent Agency. There is so much to say about this day, I don't know where to begin. From the outside some might say it was a complete waste of time but from the things that happened to me I can say that I'm really satisified with how things turned out.
First of all. No matter what anyone says, maybe because I'm a newbie in the business, typecasting sucks. Yea you get out early and aren't misled to thinking you have a shot but, unlike what the coordinator said, IT IS personal..and you do feel bad, lol. The morning audition was for contemporary/musical theater dancers and there were A LOT. We all packed into LLC and were broken into groups to be typecasted. It felt more like a model call then a dance call. When my group went, we stood in 2 lines while they pointed and commented on us(with music blasting which wasn't for dancing but to cover their voices). It was awkward for me because it was unclear whether or not we should smile and acknowledge them or just stand there. Well, needless to say I was typecasted out aka CUT. It was such a surreal feeling because you intially think, "thats it?!?!" I almost would have rathered stayed the whole way thru and actually danced and then got cut. I didn't even move for them. That's the tough part when you are a DANCER. Well, after encouragement from friends I decided to wait around for the hip hop call. Now, I wouldn't call myself a hiphop dancer but I figured maybe I had the look for that one.
I'm really happy I stayed through the madness and long lines for that one because I would have never hung out with my friend Daniel and his friend Corey who was with his friend Tamikko. (did that all make sense). Well I would describe both Corey and Tamikko as veterans slash the know more about the business then newbies. I learned so much about the business from them, specifically Tamikko. From the moment she started talking, I immediately thought in my head that she would be a great person to interview. She's an undeground freestyler who is single-handedly fusing the world of touring and clubbing. Yes, I had to ask her to define both because I had NO idea what she was talking about. From our conversation, she sounds like a beginner legend. She's worked with so many people in the industry and has her own group of girls that she books for gigs. The only thing she is lacking is an agent...which is why she was at the audition.
One of the reasons I was so interested in her story was because, in terms of dance, we are complete opposites. She admitted her weakness was learning choreography and my weakness, that I think EVERYONE knows, is that I cannot improv/freestyle. Her claim to fame is freestyle. The part of our conversation that I can never forget is her talking about how she doesn't understand how people can just reproduce choreography that was just given to them. My response was that I don't understand how someone can turn on music and she can just start moving. I don't know, it was just a really cool conversation. I learned so much. I'm trying to figure out if I will write my final freelance article on her because it was such a fascinating experience.
Back to Bloc. They hiphop call was ridiculous there were like 1000 people there and then told us around 4:30pm, when it was supposed to start, to come back in an hour because they weren't ready. When we came back there was a line outside of Ailey and then were basically hurding us like cattle to walk up to the 6th floor to get looked at and then walk all the way down if we were cut. Well, I was type casting again. Lol...all I can do is laugh because after the entire day it wasn't worth sulking over. I get that that's just the way the business works but jeez it's annoying. I will still apply to them and other agencies because it's just something that can be an asset for dancers looking for dance and commerical work.
Looking back, I'm glad I went to the audition because I was able to get a glimpse of the industry and the competition. Like most people say there will be a thousand No's to the very few Yes's. All I can do is work on my craft and try to increase those Yes's.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
