Hotshot #12

”In 2012, my family moved to London, but I stayed to go to Elmhurst College. I went to school for theatre and Spanish education, with a minor in dance. I quickly realized that I needed to be dancing and creating, and not just in a classroom setting. I always had a ton of support with dancing from my family; all of them are good dancers. But when I started doing musical theatre, my family was apprehensive and having a hard time relating since I was constantly coming home in tears from criticism from my teachers and peers. For a while it gave me a chip on my shoulder; trying to prove to people that I could actually succeed and make a career of it. But now, I dance and teach for my pure intentions. It fills my cup and reenergizes me.

After graduating, I had a friend reach out letting me know that their high school needed a choreographer for a musical. It was my first show and I fell in love with it. I got to be the dance teacher that I never had, telling them, “You can do this. It’s going to take some work, but you can”. That’s the role I’ve now stepped into, telling people that they can do it. I’m going to motivate them, and motivate myself in the process, and we’re going to keep helping each other grow.

A year and a half ago, going through customs on the way back from London, the officer asked me what I do. When I told him I was a choreographer, he said he and his fiancé were looking for someone to choreograph their first dance. So I wrote down my information on a ripped off customs form and they ended up being the first couple that I choreographed a wedding dance for! I’ve since done 5!

Now, I’ve choreographed 15 shows. After every show I think, “Damn, I didn’t know I could do that! Hell yeah!”. I feel so energized after working with my students and clients and watching the shows, I just feel like I’m ready to conquer the world and they are too! Dancing brought me that feeling and I'm so grateful.

I love going to coffee shops to plan out my routines! I find a lot of inspiration and fresh perspective in their different atmospheres! Star Lounge is one of my favorites in the city!”

- Brenda, Choreographer