PEOPLE OF DJD//

There are many people that make up the community at the DJD Dance Centre. From artists, administrators, volunteers and beyond, these walls are pulsing with personality.

1. WHEN DID YOU START DANCING?
I began dancing at the age of 5. 

2. DID YOU ALWAYS KNOW THAT DANCE WAS GOING TO BE A BIG PART OF YOUR LIFE?
I fell in love with dance at a young age, but wasn’t aware then that it would later become the centre of my career. 

3. WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL EXPERIENCE IN YOUR CAREER?
I have been fortunate to work in TV, Live Shows and on big productions. All have resulted in many wonderful memories,  deep friendships and a ton of learning. O2 The Dance Company is a not-for-profit company I am proudly part of creating here in Calgary. Through the multiple shows we have created over the past 8 years, I have grown so much and have been provided with such a beautiful artistic experience to explore and create with wonderfully talented dancers. 

4. WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR ROLE MODELS? 

Crystal Pite – an extraordinary creator and artist

Megan Lawson – I look up to and love her so much as an artist and human

Gail Scott – believed in me from the beginning and continues to

Melanie Spurway – my ballet teacher who never stopped supporting me

Susan Mensinger – a huge mentor in my life

Rachael Poirier – one of the most creative humans I know

5. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF ASPIRING DANCERS?
My advice would be – Do you. Be you. Be proud to be you. Be real. Continue to grow and learn. Be open minded. Face fears. Challenge yourself. Put yourself out of your comfort zone so you can grow. Work on your versatility. Be humble. Be hard working. Be kind. Practice gratitude.