Interview Questions by: Don of Don411.com
October 27, 2015
Coordinated by: Rogers & Cowan
Interview Questions and Responses with Dancers from “So You Think You Can Dance Season 12 Tour” in their own words… Alexia Meyer, Derek Piquette, Gaby Diaz, Hailee Payne, Jessica “JJ” Rabone, Jim Nowakowsi, Megan “Megz” Alfonso and Edson Juarez.
Alexia Meyer
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging was my “sexy fish” dance with Ariana. It was a difficult character for us to portray, but it was a great learning experience and the choreographers were really great to work with! My favorite routine was my “crazy in love” wall dance with Neptune. I had such a fun time learning and performing that dance!
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
The way dance makes me feel – I can’t find anywhere else. Although dance is very visual for the audience, the dancer experiences it in a completely different way. It is our goal to share what we feel with the audience. Many professional dancers have inspired me to dance, especially my mentor Joey Dowling. Ever since I was little, I knew dance was my passion and because of that, it has always been my goal to become a professional dancer like her.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
Growing up, I was a very competitive dancer. Through my many years of competing, I learned how to not get in my own head. If I were to give advice to my younger self it would be to relax, appreciate my own talent and not compare.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I went into the auditions with the mindset of trying my best and just enjoying the experience. My auditions went pretty well, but since I had never auditioned before, I didn’t really know what to expect. I was ecstatic when I found out I was going to be on SYTYCD! I was in complete shock. There was so much talent! I was so humbled and honored to be a part of it.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
I would tell them that the industry is hard, but that it’s worth it. The most important part is to remember who you are. Not just your unique qualities as a dancer, but understanding yourself as a person. Don’t let anything change that.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
While the tour is still at the beginning, the most memorable experience I’ve had so far is probably our daily warm up with the whole group. This is where we are able to really bond before the show starts. Sometimes we’ll improv together and that is also really special.
What is something that keeps you strong when things get difficult?
My answer to that would be my faith and my family. Those two things are the constants in my life and without them I don’t know where I would be.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I grew up in Utah and started dance when I was 3 years old at The Dance Club. I have lived in NY for the past 2 years studying Commercial Dance at Pace University. In addition to having a long lasting dance career, I want to become a sports psychologist. Beyond the technique, the mentality and focus of the dancer is what will push them towards excellence.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I love reading and exploring new areas. I think opening your mind to other places and ideas allows you to have more things to draw from when trying to express emotion or be creative in your dancing.
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I think from being on tour, I will have seen so many places and met so many different types of people that I will have a new appreciation of diversity. I have already experienced this with all the different dancers on the show. Each one of them has something unique and different about them that makes them special.
What are your goals after this tour?
I hope to finish my college education and become a sports psychologist. I hope to be able to sign with an agent, continue living in New York or move to LA and audition everywhere I can! I would love to be a part of a professional company, dance for a recording artist, and some day land a spot on Broadway!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
“That in which we persist in doing becomes easier to do, not that the nature of the thing itself has changed, but that our power to has increased.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Derek Piquette
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging routine is with Gaby to “Angel” — trying to keep Mandy’s visions true and filling Roberts Shoes. And it’s also my FAVORITE.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Something that inspires me is that there’s always someone better and room to grow and get better.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
If I could give myself advice, it would be to be myself always and never try to be someone that I think is better or that people want to see.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I started dancing because of the show, so getting on it was an absolute dream come true. Being on this whole journey still doesn’t feel real.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
Same as before — always always always be yourself and don’t get caught up in all the “fame.”
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
The very first show and being in front of a huge live audience with so much energy was the most memorable experience.
Gaby Diaz
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging routine was probably my lyrical hip-hop duet with Virgil, “Slip”, choreographed by Phillip Chbeeb. I really enjoyed all the dances I got to do on the show but my favorite was my duet with Robert Roldan, “Angel”, choreographed by Mandy Moore.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Being surrounded by other people who love what they’re doing just as much as I do reminds me why I love to dance. It’s a universal language and I hope viewers can see how much I enjoy each performance, no matter what genre of dance it’s in.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
I would tell my younger self to get accustomed to doing a proper warm-up and cool down every day. Now that I’m on tour, I’m responsible for taking care of my body so I can be present in every performance. Warm-up & cool down every time you dance.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
The audition process was intimidating! I had no idea how long the day would be, how many people would be there, how many people they would take, or if they were even interested in someone like me. Getting the call that I made it was incredibly surreal. It was only the beginning of my dream come true and I knew in that moment that my life was going to change forever.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
Take class in all styles. Push yourself outside your comfort zone and expose yourself to as much of the art form as possible. There’s so much movement to explore that will only help guide you to find yourself and your individual style.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
Getting to meet the fans every night is amazing. I feel so overwhelmed and blessed when I see how many people followed our journeys on the show and supported us throughout the experience.
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be?
I would love for more people to ask me about Travis Wall and how much he helped throughout the season so I can give him the credit he deserves. He was so present and caring all season long. I don’t know how I would’ve done it without him there every step of the way.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I’m a big sports buff! Going to or watching basketball games especially. That’s probably one of my favorite things to do when I’m not dancing.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I’m a lover of the arts in general. I love watching musicals, going to galleries and museums, listening to all kinds of music, and I think my appreciation for all art forms helps with my knowledge and creativity as a performer.
How do you think you will be different after this tour? What are your goals after this tour?
I will walk out of this tour a much stronger dancer physically and mentally. We’re pretty early on in the tour but I already have a better understanding of how the life of a professional dancer goes. My goal is to continue working after tour and not disappear from the industry.
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
My quote all season long was “Mind over Matter”.
Hailee Payne Twitter: @hailee_payne Instagram: @hailee_payne Facebook: Hailee Payne
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
I think each routine brings its own challenges. With certain styles of contemporary you have to find your freedom while remaining consistent with your line. With jazz you have to be powerful but not over the top, and hip hop is another beast of its own. Out of all the routines I performed on the show, my favorite has to be my robot piece I performed with Virgil. It was that moment that every contestant on SYTYCD wants to have.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Many things inspire me to dance, but what really pushes me and get my creative gears going is watching other dancers. It’s a beautiful thing dance because we get to share and express not only with an audience but with other dancers. The best way to learn is to watch. I have learned so much by watching. I will see something that catches my eye and try it and adapt it to my body and make it my own. That’s how we grow as dancers. When I dance, I want people to feel what I am feeling. Whatever emotion I am feeling on the stage should resonate with the audience. That is our job as dancers. Dance is very powerful and can do many things for many people the artist included. That is one of the many reasons why I dance.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
Younger Hailee, yes you are a perfectionist and it will help you tremendously, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember that mistakes happen. Don’t let it falter your spirits but instead grow from the experience. Figure out why it happened and learn. As long as you keep up your performance no one will ever know. Always stay positive and be true to your peppy self. You got it!
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
Before season 12, I had auditioned twice for the show so I was really hoping that third times the charm would do it. To my surprise, I finally got the yes to the live show. It was a shock. My body had so many emotions running through it. I had gotten so close before and to finally be on the show was surreal. I was ready for the challenge and to grow in my craft. The audition process this year was very different than of that in the past seasons. Instead of partnering in Vegas, we danced as individuals in contemporary, Broadway, jazz, and then had the infamous group round. You always go into the audition process with best intentions and of course booking the job, but this year was especially nerve racking since they were only taking 10 stage dancers. Everyone was so talented that I didn’t know if I would make it to the live show. I kept my spirits high though and of course hoped for the best.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
What I tell every young dancer is to be yourself. As dancers, it’s very easy to compare yourself to another. It happens every day but there is only one you so be the best you that you can possibly be. Stay positive, continue training, and don’t take no as an answer.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
The most memorable experience from the tour was the first show! It was the first time we were performing as the Season 12 tour and we did it! We got through it! We made our quick changes and didn’t die in the process.
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be?
I will answer any question! But maybe a question that I would like to be asked is what is your favorite Starbucks drink? And my answer would be pumpkin spice latte! Everyone always asks about the show or tour which is understandable but a random question would catch me off guard and be hilarious.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
Little known fact or should I say well known fact about me is that I am obsessed with the movie Frozen! It is my most favorite movie. There is something about that really connected with my soul so much so that I have frozen gear to fill a house. I have leggings, shirts, shoes, sweatshirts, cups, bowls, jewelry, key chains, and much more! Obsession!
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
Well I don’t do much besides dance, but in my spare time I like to read. There is nothing more relaxing than settling down with a good book. I think it opens my mind and lets me think more freely. But if I’m completely honest my best ideas come to me while jamming in my car so I guess you could say I like to drive my car!
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
After the tour I believe I will be stronger. After this show I will be able to take on anything. My endurance will be right where I want it and the goal is to keep it that way.
What are your goals after this tour?
After the tour I will be moving to Los Angeles to dive head first into this crazy dance world. I am ready to audition for anything that comes my way. I will be teaching as well but really want to focus on dancing. I am hoping to book a tour with an artist… (cough, cough) Lady GaGa!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
One of my favorite quotes is actually from a song from my favorite band, Mumford and Sons. “In these bodies we will live, in these bodies we will die. And where you invest your love, you invest your life.” This just resonates with me. I feel like it is so true.
Jessica “JJ” Rabone
Website: www.instagram.com/jessicajjrabone www.twitter.com/jessicaJJrabone www.ebiz.tokyo
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging routine was Tango, and it’s also my favorite one as well ;). Another favorite routine was Sonya’s routine dancing with the All-Star Robert — which I didn’t get to perform because of my injury ;( but sometimes I watch the rehearsal video on my phone remembering how amazing that time was to be in the same room with them and working on such a beautiful piece together…
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Definitely music inspires me the most, but anything in life can actually inspire me too. Happiness, sadness, loneliness, anger… and I get inspired by people who believe in me. Because of them I can push myself to the limit. You can take away anything you want, but I like to make people smile and feel happy after they see me dance.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
You don’t need to rush the process. Don’t fight time. Enjoy every moment of this life you were given.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I was like “ARE YOU SERIOUS?????????!!!!!” and I cried. I did NOT think I will make it on the show at all. I thought it was a miracle that I made it to Vegas week. In Vegas I didn’t unpack my suitcase thinking I would get cut right away… hahahaha
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
You only see the good part of it from the outside, which is the beautiful technique of dance. Camera ready, happy faces. But getting there is a long journey. A lot of training goes in to the art of dance and it’s not always going to be easy, but what I always suggest to people is to ENJOY the journey. You can cry after you get cut from an audition, but hopefully you will be smiling after couple hours that you learned something new, you tried something, you fought for it, and now you have one extra life experience under your belt that will make you grow as a person.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
In one of the shows Megz fell so hard on stage. I wanted to help her back up so bad, but at the same time I had to run on stage to do my choreography. So it was a struggle of wanting to help her but being unable to miss my part. Marissa saved the day by pulling Megz’s leg off stage. WE DIED. hahahahahaha
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be?
What do you do when you get nervous before performing?
I say “THANK YOU” 10 times in my head. I never want to get used to the opportunities I get. I want to remember how special this moment is and I am thankful to the fullest!!
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I EAT ALOT. TRUST ME, I DO.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
Cooking, playing piano and sewing. I dance while I cook so I guess it helps. haha
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I will probably have a nice six pack of abs.
What are your goals after this tour?
I want to take SYTYCD to JAPAN!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
LIFE IS GOOD.
Jim Nowakowsi
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
All the hip hop routines for me were the most challenging. It was so out of my element. My favorite routine was the routine I got to perform on the finale show with All-Star Alex Wong, choreographed by my Team Stage mentor Travis Wall. My other favorite was my first hip hop routine choreographed by Chris Scott, performed with Street dancer Jaja.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
What inspires me to dance is one the fulfillment and satisfaction I feel when I am moving and when I am on a stage. It is my second home, and is therapy to me. Also the people. All I ever want to do through my dancing and movement is to touch the souls of each individual. If the audience member leaves entertained, inspired and wanting more, I know I did my job.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
My advice to my younger self is… don’t just dance hard, but dance smart! There is a difference and I had to learn the hard way. I dealt with an injury that put me out of dancing for 10 months because I wasn’t smart about what my body was telling me. Also don’t compare yourself to others, but use others as inspiration. We are all special in our own way. Acknowledge your weaknesses and work on them, but also remember what your strengths are and what you bring to the table as an artist.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I was so thrilled when I was called to be on SYTYCD! It was like a ton of weight was lifted off my shoulders, because at the time I did not have a job yet and I did not know what I was doing for the summer. The audition for me personally was pure fun. It was a world that I had never been a part of. I never went to big open audition calls before, so everything was so fascinating and fresh to me. I went in with an open mind and was very optimistic. I had hoped in my gut that if I gave everything I had and really showed the judges who I was as an artist that I would have gotten on the show!
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
The ballet world is a little different than the commercial dance world, but at the end of the day it’s all one big industry. You have to put in the time and work, but sometimes it’s all about timing.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
Meeting all the wonderful fans. It truly is one of the most special and humbling experiences meeting all the people at the meet and greets.
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be? What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I am big kid at heart. I love Disney movies, amusement parks, playing with my friends children, going to playgrounds with them. I love the innocence in children. I love my peace and quiet time. I call it “Jim time.” I love taking baths, doing yoga.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I love being with my friends and family. They keep me humble and inspired. I love going to shows and expanding my knowledge about the arts. I like visiting museums every now and then and also reading about dance and watching videos even if it’s on YouTube.
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I will leave this tour so inspired and motivated to get back out and start working.
What are your goals after this tour?
My goals after this tour are to work for a bit in LA or NYC. Then dance across seas in Europe, because I think that Europe is not only such a beautiful place, but the arts are appreciated so differently over there.
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
“For some life lasts a short while, but the memories it holds last forever”
Megan “Megz” Alfonso
What was your most challenging dance routine?
Ballroom
Do you have a favorite?
My duet with Edson. The t-shirt dance.
What inspires you to dance?
My family at home and my mentors.
What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Love, support of the family, how you can grow so much from the show and find yourself a better dancer every time.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self?”
Not being scared to try new thing when you’re young because you learn so much and build you dance skills.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD?
I was shocked and surprise because I never thought I would be here today.
What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
The audition was amazing because you see different styles and looks. I love it and was excited to be challenged.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
You have to be ready for anything and be open-minded to whatever is thrown at you. You’ll be inspired by the people around – also the choreographers.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
How much we learn from each other and how much of a family we are together.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I love drawing, play Xbox, being a kid and Harry Potter. Lol.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
Drawing because it clears my mind and helps me be creative with movements.
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I’m always myself but I like to keep pushing myself to the goals I would to get.
What are your goals after this tour?
Love to be a Janet dancer and JT dancer!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
Always be who you are.
Edson Juarez
twitter: @edsonjuarez19
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging would have to be “Love if Free.” It’s a non-stop and very demanding routine! My fav is a toss-up between “Your day will come” and “You there.” Both pieces are just too good to choose!
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey? Life inspires me. You never know when it will all be taken away through injury, sickness, or death. So why not live life to the fullest! Dance every day! “Everything you want is on the other side of fear!”
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
I wouldn’t. My experience was amazing and I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world!
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
This year, finally receiving the phone call was just so gratifying. I felt so blessed to have been selected out of thousands to be on SYTYCD! This being the third time I knew what had worked and what hadn’t. I had prepared as best as I could and was ready! Thankfully it worked for the best!
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
Always be yourself! Don’t try to be something you think people want you to be. Be true to yourself and that’s when things will work out for the best!
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
Still too early to tell, but so far it’s been unforgettable stepping on that stage every night!
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I mumble a lot. I have very flexible joints. I am a Scorpio! And my fav color is teal!
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I love, love, love to work out and eat healthy! Not to mention cooking!! It’s my fav thing to do! I believe it really does help when I take care of my body like that!
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I think that the maturity as a dancer will be what I will take away! Just the understanding of what a tour demands of your body and mind.
What are your goals after this tour?
Moving to LA and hoping for the best in my young dancing career!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
Everything you want is on the other side of fear!
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AMERICA’S FAVORITE SUMMER DANCE SERIES, EMMY AWARD-WINNING “SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE,” HITS THE ROAD FOR ITS SEASON 12 TOUR, TRAVELING TO 70 MARKETS
Los Angeles, CA (August 18, 2015) – SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, the 13-time Primetime Emmy® Award-winning show that sparked America’s fascination with dance, is set to captivate audiences again this fall – live on tour. Celebrating its momentous 12th season and its exciting new Stage v. Street format, SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE’s Top 10 finalists will make their way across North America performing in 70 cities as part of the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE SEASON 12 TOUR. The Season 12 tour lineup includes the
following Top 10 finalists: Team Stage’s Gaby Diaz, Edson Juarez, Jim Nowakowski, Hailee Payne and Derek Piquette; and Team Street’s Megan “Megz” Alfonso, Eddie “Neptune” Eskridge, Virgil Gadson, Jessica “JJ” Rabone and Jana “Jaja” Vankova. SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE airs Mondays (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX.
The tour kicks off on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the Verizon Theatre in Grand Prairie, TX and crosses the United States and Canada with 70 sensational stops. The first leg of the tour will wrap on Tuesday, Dec. 29 at the Taco Bell Arena in Boise, ID. The dancers will then return for the second leg of the tour in Canada, starting at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria, BC, on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2016.
The official tour routing is available on fox.com/dance. American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets in select markets before the general public beginning Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 10 a.m. local time through Thursday, Aug. 27 at 10 p.m. local time. Tickets go on sale to the public beginning Friday, Aug. 28.
Visit fox.com/dance for more information.
Fall’s hottest ticket will feature this season’s most popular routines from Team Stage and Team Street, as well as original pieces created specifically for the nationwide tour. 19 Entertainment and dick clark productions will present audiences across the country with the opportunity to experience the action brought into their living rooms each week on the beloved summer series, with a variety of sizzling, one-of-a-kind dance routines they have come to enjoy and expect from their favorite dancers.
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE recently received eight 2015 Primetime Emmy® Award nominations, including Outstanding Reality-Competition Program and Outstanding Host In A Reality or Reality-Competition Program (Cat Deeley), in addition to nominations for Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Hairstyling For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special, Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction For A Variety Series, and Outstanding Makeup For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special (Non-Prosthetic). SYTYCD’s exceptional costume team of Marina Toybina and Grainne O’Sullivan also won an Emmy® Award for Outstanding Costumes for a Variety Program.
“I am thrilled with this season’s new Stage vs. Street format and the brilliant, fresh talent we have discovered. These dancers have inspired the choreographers to create remarkable dance numbers each week, truly showcasing individual talent. I am excited for your favorite dancers to bring their inspiration and routines to even more cities on this year’s nationwide tour,” stated Nigel Lythgoe, judge, executive producer and co- creator of the hit FOX series.
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE SEASON 12 TOUR
Tickets on sale starting August 28. Check local venues for more information. Tickets are subject to applicable service charges. Event time and dates subject to change. Check out fox.com/dance for full list of dates and links.
| DATE |
CITY |
VENUE |
| 10/13/15 |
Grand Prairie, TX |
Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie |
| 10/15/15 |
San Antonio, TX |
Majestic Theatre |
| 10/16/15 |
Austin, TX |
ACL Live at the Moody Theater |
| 10/17/15 |
Houston, TX |
Bayou Music Center |
| 10/19/15 |
New Orleans, LA |
Saenger Theatre |
| 10/21/15 |
Jacksonville, FL |
Times Union Center PAC, Moran Theatre |
| 10/23/15 |
West Palm Beach, FL |
Dreyfoos Hall at the Kravis Center |
| 10/24/15 |
Orlando, FL |
Hard Rock Live |
| 10/25/15 |
Ft. Myers, FL |
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall |
| 10/27/15 |
Clearwater, FL |
Ruth Eckerd Hall |
| 10/28/15 |
Miami, FL |
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts |
| 10/29/15 |
Sarasota, FL |
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall |
| 10/31/15 |
Atlanta, GA |
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre |
| 11/1/15 |
Nashville, TN |
Tennessee Performing Arts Center |
| 11/3/15 |
Durham, NC |
Durham Performing Arts Center |
| 11/5/15 |
Baltimore, MD |
Lyric Opera House |
| 11/6/15 |
Washington, DC |
Warner Theatre |
| 11/7/15 |
Huntington, NY |
The Paramount |
| 11/8/15 |
Philadelphia, PA |
Academy of Music |
| 11/10/15 |
Brooklyn, NY |
Kings Theatre |
| 11/11/15 |
Morristown, NJ |
Mayo Performing Arts Center |
| 11/13/15 |
Boston, MA |
Orpheum Theatre |
| 11/14/15 |
Portland, ME |
Cross Insurance Arena |
| 11/15/15 |
Uncasville, CT |
Mohegan Sun Arena |
| 11/17/15 |
Toms River, NJ |
Pine Belt Arena |
| 11/18/15 |
Reading, PA |
Santander Performing Arts Center |
| 11/20/15 |
Buffalo, NY |
Shea’s Performing Arts Center |
| 11/21/15 |
Columbus, OH |
The Palace |
| 11/22/15 |
East Lansing, MI |
Wharton Center |
| 11/24/15 |
Cleveland, OH |
Palace Theatre |
| 11/25/15 |
Detroit, MI |
Fox Theatre |
| 11/27/15 |
Chicago, IL |
Chicago Theatre |
| 11/28/15 |
Minneapolis, MN |
State Theatre |
| 11/29/15 |
Cedar Rapids, IA |
Paramount Theatre |
| 12/2/15 |
St. Louis, MO |
Fox Theatre |
| 12/3/15 |
Kansas City, MO |
Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland |
| 12/4/15 |
Tulsa, OK |
Brady Theater |
| 12/5/15 |
Kearney, NE |
Viaero Event Center |
| 12/7/15 |
Colorado Springs, CO |
Pikes Peak Center |
| 12/8/15 |
Denver, CO |
Paramount Theatre |
| 12/10/15 |
West Valley City, UT |
Maverik Center |
| 12/11/15 |
Las Vegas, NV |
The Pearl Concert Theater |
| 12/12/15 |
Phoenix, AZ |
Comerica Theatre |
| 12/14/15 |
San Diego, CA |
Copley Symphony Hall |
| 12/15/15 |
Riverside, CA |
Fox Performing Arts Center |
| 12/16/15 |
Los Angeles, CA |
Microsoft Theater L.A. LIVE |
| 12/18/15 |
San Jose, CA |
City National Civic |
| 12/19/15 |
San Francisco, CA |
Warfield Theatre |
| 12/20/15 |
Santa Rosa, CA |
Wells Fargo Center for the Arts |
| 12/26/15 |
Seattle, WA |
Paramount Theatre |
| 12/27/15 |
Portland, OR |
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall |
|
| 12/28/15 |
Spokane, WA |
INB Performing Arts Center |
|
| 12/29/15 |
Boise, ID |
Taco Bell Arena |
|
| 1/7/16 |
Victoria, BC |
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre |
|
| 1/8/16 |
Vancouver, BC |
Queen Elizabeth Theatre |
|
| 1/9/16 |
Abbotsford, BC |
Abbotsford Entertainment & Sports Centre |
|
| 1/10/16 |
Kelowna, BC |
Prospera Place |
|
| 1/12/16 |
Calgary, AB |
Grey Eagle Casino |
|
| 1/13/16 |
Lethbridge, AB |
Enmax Centre |
|
| 1/14/16 |
Edmonton, AB |
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium |
|
| 1/15/16 |
Saskatoon, SK |
TCU Place |
|
| 1/17/16 |
Regina, SK |
Conexus Arts Centre |
|
| 1/18/16 |
Winnipeg, MB |
Burton Cummings Theatre |
|
| 1/19/16 |
Thunder Bay, ON |
Thunder Bay Community Auditorium |
|
| 1/21/16 |
London, ON |
Budweiser Gardens |
|
| 1/22/16 |
Toronto, ON |
Sony Centre for Performing Arts |
|
| 1/23/16 |
Hamilton, ON |
Hamilton Place Theatre |
|
| 1/24/16 |
Ottawa, ON |
National Arts Centre |
|
| 1/26/16 |
Moncton, NB |
Casino New Brunswick |
|
| 1/28/16 |
Montreal, QC |
St. Denis Theatre |
|
About So You Think You Can Dance
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE was created by Simon Fuller and Nigel Lythgoe and is from 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group, and dick clark productions. The series is executive-produced by Fuller, Lythgoe; Allen Shapiro, CEO of dick clark productions; Barry Adelman, Executive Vice President of dick clark productions; Beverly Frank of 19 Entertainment, James Breen and Jeff Thacker. Visit the official SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE site at www.fox.com/dance to view exclusive videos, photos and contestant profiles. “Like” SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE on Facebook
at www.facebook.com/SoYouThinkYouCanDance. Follow the series on Twitter @DANCEonFOX and join the discussion using #sytycd and #stagevsstreet. Follow host Cat Deeley at @catdeeley, and follow the judges Nigel Lythgoe@dizzyfeet Paula Abdul @PaulaAbdul and Jason Derulo @JasonDerulo.
About 19 Entertainment/CORE Media Group
19 Entertainment is a division of CORE Media Group Inc. and home to iconic and enduring properties like AMERICAN IDOL and SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE. CORE Media Group is a content company that creates quality programing through its in-house creative team and a myriad of partnerships with well- established industry leaders such as Sharp Entertainment, Howie Mandel’s Alevy Productions, Noreen Halpern’s Halfire Entertainment and B-17 Entertainment. Together, CORE’s dynamic group of content creators is producing quality entertainment for over 30 networks. For more information about CORE Media Group, Inc., visit www.coremediagroup.com.
About dick clark productions
dick clark productions (dcp) is the world’s largest producer and proprietor of televised live event entertainment programming with the “Academy of Country Music Awards,” “American Country Countdown Awards,” “American Music Awards,” “Billboard Music Awards,” “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,” “Golden Globe Awards,” “Hollywood Film Awards” and the “Streamy Awards.” Weekly television programming includes “So You Think You Can Dance” from 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group and dcp; “World’s Funniest” from Jukin Media and dcp; as well as “BOOM!” from Keshet DCP, the joint venture between Keshet International (KI), the global distribution and production arm of Keshet Media Group and DC Media, the parent company of dcp. dcp also owns one of the world’s most unique and extensive entertainment archive libraries with more than 55 years of award-winning shows, historic programs, specials, performances and legendary programming. For additional information, visit www.dickclark.com.
Interview Questions and Responses with Dancers from “So You Think You Can Dance Season 12 Tour” in their own words… Alexia Meyer, Derek Piquette, Gaby Diaz, Hailee Payne, Jessica “JJ” Rabone, Jim Nowakowsi, Megan “Megz” Alfonso and Edson Juarez
October 27, 2015 Comment Off 20775 ViewsInterview Questions by: Don of Don411.com
October 27, 2015
Coordinated by: Rogers & Cowan
Interview Questions and Responses with Dancers from “So You Think You Can Dance Season 12 Tour” in their own words… Alexia Meyer, Derek Piquette, Gaby Diaz, Hailee Payne, Jessica “JJ” Rabone, Jim Nowakowsi, Megan “Megz” Alfonso and Edson Juarez.
Alexia Meyer
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging was my “sexy fish” dance with Ariana. It was a difficult character for us to portray, but it was a great learning experience and the choreographers were really great to work with! My favorite routine was my “crazy in love” wall dance with Neptune. I had such a fun time learning and performing that dance!
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
The way dance makes me feel – I can’t find anywhere else. Although dance is very visual for the audience, the dancer experiences it in a completely different way. It is our goal to share what we feel with the audience. Many professional dancers have inspired me to dance, especially my mentor Joey Dowling. Ever since I was little, I knew dance was my passion and because of that, it has always been my goal to become a professional dancer like her.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
Growing up, I was a very competitive dancer. Through my many years of competing, I learned how to not get in my own head. If I were to give advice to my younger self it would be to relax, appreciate my own talent and not compare.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I went into the auditions with the mindset of trying my best and just enjoying the experience. My auditions went pretty well, but since I had never auditioned before, I didn’t really know what to expect. I was ecstatic when I found out I was going to be on SYTYCD! I was in complete shock. There was so much talent! I was so humbled and honored to be a part of it.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
I would tell them that the industry is hard, but that it’s worth it. The most important part is to remember who you are. Not just your unique qualities as a dancer, but understanding yourself as a person. Don’t let anything change that.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
While the tour is still at the beginning, the most memorable experience I’ve had so far is probably our daily warm up with the whole group. This is where we are able to really bond before the show starts. Sometimes we’ll improv together and that is also really special.
What is something that keeps you strong when things get difficult?
My answer to that would be my faith and my family. Those two things are the constants in my life and without them I don’t know where I would be.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I grew up in Utah and started dance when I was 3 years old at The Dance Club. I have lived in NY for the past 2 years studying Commercial Dance at Pace University. In addition to having a long lasting dance career, I want to become a sports psychologist. Beyond the technique, the mentality and focus of the dancer is what will push them towards excellence.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I love reading and exploring new areas. I think opening your mind to other places and ideas allows you to have more things to draw from when trying to express emotion or be creative in your dancing.
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I think from being on tour, I will have seen so many places and met so many different types of people that I will have a new appreciation of diversity. I have already experienced this with all the different dancers on the show. Each one of them has something unique and different about them that makes them special.
What are your goals after this tour?
I hope to finish my college education and become a sports psychologist. I hope to be able to sign with an agent, continue living in New York or move to LA and audition everywhere I can! I would love to be a part of a professional company, dance for a recording artist, and some day land a spot on Broadway!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
“That in which we persist in doing becomes easier to do, not that the nature of the thing itself has changed, but that our power to has increased.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Derek Piquette
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging routine is with Gaby to “Angel” — trying to keep Mandy’s visions true and filling Roberts Shoes. And it’s also my FAVORITE.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Something that inspires me is that there’s always someone better and room to grow and get better.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
If I could give myself advice, it would be to be myself always and never try to be someone that I think is better or that people want to see.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I started dancing because of the show, so getting on it was an absolute dream come true. Being on this whole journey still doesn’t feel real.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
Same as before — always always always be yourself and don’t get caught up in all the “fame.”
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
The very first show and being in front of a huge live audience with so much energy was the most memorable experience.
Gaby Diaz
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging routine was probably my lyrical hip-hop duet with Virgil, “Slip”, choreographed by Phillip Chbeeb. I really enjoyed all the dances I got to do on the show but my favorite was my duet with Robert Roldan, “Angel”, choreographed by Mandy Moore.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Being surrounded by other people who love what they’re doing just as much as I do reminds me why I love to dance. It’s a universal language and I hope viewers can see how much I enjoy each performance, no matter what genre of dance it’s in.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
I would tell my younger self to get accustomed to doing a proper warm-up and cool down every day. Now that I’m on tour, I’m responsible for taking care of my body so I can be present in every performance. Warm-up & cool down every time you dance.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
The audition process was intimidating! I had no idea how long the day would be, how many people would be there, how many people they would take, or if they were even interested in someone like me. Getting the call that I made it was incredibly surreal. It was only the beginning of my dream come true and I knew in that moment that my life was going to change forever.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
Take class in all styles. Push yourself outside your comfort zone and expose yourself to as much of the art form as possible. There’s so much movement to explore that will only help guide you to find yourself and your individual style.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
Getting to meet the fans every night is amazing. I feel so overwhelmed and blessed when I see how many people followed our journeys on the show and supported us throughout the experience.
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be?
I would love for more people to ask me about Travis Wall and how much he helped throughout the season so I can give him the credit he deserves. He was so present and caring all season long. I don’t know how I would’ve done it without him there every step of the way.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I’m a big sports buff! Going to or watching basketball games especially. That’s probably one of my favorite things to do when I’m not dancing.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I’m a lover of the arts in general. I love watching musicals, going to galleries and museums, listening to all kinds of music, and I think my appreciation for all art forms helps with my knowledge and creativity as a performer.
How do you think you will be different after this tour? What are your goals after this tour?
I will walk out of this tour a much stronger dancer physically and mentally. We’re pretty early on in the tour but I already have a better understanding of how the life of a professional dancer goes. My goal is to continue working after tour and not disappear from the industry.
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
My quote all season long was “Mind over Matter”.
Hailee Payne Twitter: @hailee_payne Instagram: @hailee_payne Facebook: Hailee Payne
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
I think each routine brings its own challenges. With certain styles of contemporary you have to find your freedom while remaining consistent with your line. With jazz you have to be powerful but not over the top, and hip hop is another beast of its own. Out of all the routines I performed on the show, my favorite has to be my robot piece I performed with Virgil. It was that moment that every contestant on SYTYCD wants to have.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Many things inspire me to dance, but what really pushes me and get my creative gears going is watching other dancers. It’s a beautiful thing dance because we get to share and express not only with an audience but with other dancers. The best way to learn is to watch. I have learned so much by watching. I will see something that catches my eye and try it and adapt it to my body and make it my own. That’s how we grow as dancers. When I dance, I want people to feel what I am feeling. Whatever emotion I am feeling on the stage should resonate with the audience. That is our job as dancers. Dance is very powerful and can do many things for many people the artist included. That is one of the many reasons why I dance.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
Younger Hailee, yes you are a perfectionist and it will help you tremendously, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember that mistakes happen. Don’t let it falter your spirits but instead grow from the experience. Figure out why it happened and learn. As long as you keep up your performance no one will ever know. Always stay positive and be true to your peppy self. You got it!
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
Before season 12, I had auditioned twice for the show so I was really hoping that third times the charm would do it. To my surprise, I finally got the yes to the live show. It was a shock. My body had so many emotions running through it. I had gotten so close before and to finally be on the show was surreal. I was ready for the challenge and to grow in my craft. The audition process this year was very different than of that in the past seasons. Instead of partnering in Vegas, we danced as individuals in contemporary, Broadway, jazz, and then had the infamous group round. You always go into the audition process with best intentions and of course booking the job, but this year was especially nerve racking since they were only taking 10 stage dancers. Everyone was so talented that I didn’t know if I would make it to the live show. I kept my spirits high though and of course hoped for the best.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
What I tell every young dancer is to be yourself. As dancers, it’s very easy to compare yourself to another. It happens every day but there is only one you so be the best you that you can possibly be. Stay positive, continue training, and don’t take no as an answer.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
The most memorable experience from the tour was the first show! It was the first time we were performing as the Season 12 tour and we did it! We got through it! We made our quick changes and didn’t die in the process.
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be?
I will answer any question! But maybe a question that I would like to be asked is what is your favorite Starbucks drink? And my answer would be pumpkin spice latte! Everyone always asks about the show or tour which is understandable but a random question would catch me off guard and be hilarious.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
Little known fact or should I say well known fact about me is that I am obsessed with the movie Frozen! It is my most favorite movie. There is something about that really connected with my soul so much so that I have frozen gear to fill a house. I have leggings, shirts, shoes, sweatshirts, cups, bowls, jewelry, key chains, and much more! Obsession!
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
Well I don’t do much besides dance, but in my spare time I like to read. There is nothing more relaxing than settling down with a good book. I think it opens my mind and lets me think more freely. But if I’m completely honest my best ideas come to me while jamming in my car so I guess you could say I like to drive my car!
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
After the tour I believe I will be stronger. After this show I will be able to take on anything. My endurance will be right where I want it and the goal is to keep it that way.
What are your goals after this tour?
After the tour I will be moving to Los Angeles to dive head first into this crazy dance world. I am ready to audition for anything that comes my way. I will be teaching as well but really want to focus on dancing. I am hoping to book a tour with an artist… (cough, cough) Lady GaGa!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
One of my favorite quotes is actually from a song from my favorite band, Mumford and Sons. “In these bodies we will live, in these bodies we will die. And where you invest your love, you invest your life.” This just resonates with me. I feel like it is so true.
Jessica “JJ” Rabone
Website: www.instagram.com/jessicajjrabone www.twitter.com/jessicaJJrabone www.ebiz.tokyo
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging routine was Tango, and it’s also my favorite one as well ;). Another favorite routine was Sonya’s routine dancing with the All-Star Robert — which I didn’t get to perform because of my injury ;( but sometimes I watch the rehearsal video on my phone remembering how amazing that time was to be in the same room with them and working on such a beautiful piece together…
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Definitely music inspires me the most, but anything in life can actually inspire me too. Happiness, sadness, loneliness, anger… and I get inspired by people who believe in me. Because of them I can push myself to the limit. You can take away anything you want, but I like to make people smile and feel happy after they see me dance.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
You don’t need to rush the process. Don’t fight time. Enjoy every moment of this life you were given.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I was like “ARE YOU SERIOUS?????????!!!!!” and I cried. I did NOT think I will make it on the show at all. I thought it was a miracle that I made it to Vegas week. In Vegas I didn’t unpack my suitcase thinking I would get cut right away… hahahaha
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
You only see the good part of it from the outside, which is the beautiful technique of dance. Camera ready, happy faces. But getting there is a long journey. A lot of training goes in to the art of dance and it’s not always going to be easy, but what I always suggest to people is to ENJOY the journey. You can cry after you get cut from an audition, but hopefully you will be smiling after couple hours that you learned something new, you tried something, you fought for it, and now you have one extra life experience under your belt that will make you grow as a person.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
In one of the shows Megz fell so hard on stage. I wanted to help her back up so bad, but at the same time I had to run on stage to do my choreography. So it was a struggle of wanting to help her but being unable to miss my part. Marissa saved the day by pulling Megz’s leg off stage. WE DIED. hahahahahaha
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be?
What do you do when you get nervous before performing?
I say “THANK YOU” 10 times in my head. I never want to get used to the opportunities I get. I want to remember how special this moment is and I am thankful to the fullest!!
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I EAT ALOT. TRUST ME, I DO.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
Cooking, playing piano and sewing. I dance while I cook so I guess it helps. haha
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I will probably have a nice six pack of abs.
What are your goals after this tour?
I want to take SYTYCD to JAPAN!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
LIFE IS GOOD.
Jim Nowakowsi
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
All the hip hop routines for me were the most challenging. It was so out of my element. My favorite routine was the routine I got to perform on the finale show with All-Star Alex Wong, choreographed by my Team Stage mentor Travis Wall. My other favorite was my first hip hop routine choreographed by Chris Scott, performed with Street dancer Jaja.
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
What inspires me to dance is one the fulfillment and satisfaction I feel when I am moving and when I am on a stage. It is my second home, and is therapy to me. Also the people. All I ever want to do through my dancing and movement is to touch the souls of each individual. If the audience member leaves entertained, inspired and wanting more, I know I did my job.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
My advice to my younger self is… don’t just dance hard, but dance smart! There is a difference and I had to learn the hard way. I dealt with an injury that put me out of dancing for 10 months because I wasn’t smart about what my body was telling me. Also don’t compare yourself to others, but use others as inspiration. We are all special in our own way. Acknowledge your weaknesses and work on them, but also remember what your strengths are and what you bring to the table as an artist.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
I was so thrilled when I was called to be on SYTYCD! It was like a ton of weight was lifted off my shoulders, because at the time I did not have a job yet and I did not know what I was doing for the summer. The audition for me personally was pure fun. It was a world that I had never been a part of. I never went to big open audition calls before, so everything was so fascinating and fresh to me. I went in with an open mind and was very optimistic. I had hoped in my gut that if I gave everything I had and really showed the judges who I was as an artist that I would have gotten on the show!
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
The ballet world is a little different than the commercial dance world, but at the end of the day it’s all one big industry. You have to put in the time and work, but sometimes it’s all about timing.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
Meeting all the wonderful fans. It truly is one of the most special and humbling experiences meeting all the people at the meet and greets.
Are there any questions you would want asked of you that haven’t been asked? What would your answer be? What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I am big kid at heart. I love Disney movies, amusement parks, playing with my friends children, going to playgrounds with them. I love the innocence in children. I love my peace and quiet time. I call it “Jim time.” I love taking baths, doing yoga.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I love being with my friends and family. They keep me humble and inspired. I love going to shows and expanding my knowledge about the arts. I like visiting museums every now and then and also reading about dance and watching videos even if it’s on YouTube.
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I will leave this tour so inspired and motivated to get back out and start working.
What are your goals after this tour?
My goals after this tour are to work for a bit in LA or NYC. Then dance across seas in Europe, because I think that Europe is not only such a beautiful place, but the arts are appreciated so differently over there.
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
“For some life lasts a short while, but the memories it holds last forever”
Megan “Megz” Alfonso
What was your most challenging dance routine?
Ballroom
Do you have a favorite?
My duet with Edson. The t-shirt dance.
What inspires you to dance?
My family at home and my mentors.
What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey?
Love, support of the family, how you can grow so much from the show and find yourself a better dancer every time.
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self?”
Not being scared to try new thing when you’re young because you learn so much and build you dance skills.
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD?
I was shocked and surprise because I never thought I would be here today.
What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
The audition was amazing because you see different styles and looks. I love it and was excited to be challenged.
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
You have to be ready for anything and be open-minded to whatever is thrown at you. You’ll be inspired by the people around – also the choreographers.
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
How much we learn from each other and how much of a family we are together.
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I love drawing, play Xbox, being a kid and Harry Potter. Lol.
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
Drawing because it clears my mind and helps me be creative with movements.
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I’m always myself but I like to keep pushing myself to the goals I would to get.
What are your goals after this tour?
Love to be a Janet dancer and JT dancer!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
Always be who you are.
Edson Juarez
twitter: @edsonjuarez19
What was your most challenging dance routine? Do you have a favorite?
My most challenging would have to be “Love if Free.” It’s a non-stop and very demanding routine! My fav is a toss-up between “Your day will come” and “You there.” Both pieces are just too good to choose!
What inspires you to dance? What should the viewer take away, interpretation or a message you wish to convey? Life inspires me. You never know when it will all be taken away through injury, sickness, or death. So why not live life to the fullest! Dance every day! “Everything you want is on the other side of fear!”
If you could go back in time, what advice and lessons learned would you had given your “younger self”?
I wouldn’t. My experience was amazing and I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world!
What was your reaction and your feelings when you were called to be on SYTYCD? What was the audition like and did you believe you would be on it?
This year, finally receiving the phone call was just so gratifying. I felt so blessed to have been selected out of thousands to be on SYTYCD! This being the third time I knew what had worked and what hadn’t. I had prepared as best as I could and was ready! Thankfully it worked for the best!
If you could give advice for aspiring younger dancers, what did you discover about the industry that you would want others to know about?
Always be yourself! Don’t try to be something you think people want you to be. Be true to yourself and that’s when things will work out for the best!
What was the most memorable experience you had while on tour?
Still too early to tell, but so far it’s been unforgettable stepping on that stage every night!
What are some little known facts about yourself you would want others to know about?
I mumble a lot. I have very flexible joints. I am a Scorpio! And my fav color is teal!
What are your hobbies and does this help you with your dancing?
I love, love, love to work out and eat healthy! Not to mention cooking!! It’s my fav thing to do! I believe it really does help when I take care of my body like that!
How do you think you will be different after this tour?
I think that the maturity as a dancer will be what I will take away! Just the understanding of what a tour demands of your body and mind.
What are your goals after this tour?
Moving to LA and hoping for the best in my young dancing career!
Do you have favorite personal quotes you either heard or have made yourself?
Everything you want is on the other side of fear!
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AMERICA’S FAVORITE SUMMER DANCE SERIES, EMMY AWARD-WINNING “SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE,” HITS THE ROAD FOR ITS SEASON 12 TOUR, TRAVELING TO 70 MARKETS
Los Angeles, CA (August 18, 2015) – SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, the 13-time Primetime Emmy® Award-winning show that sparked America’s fascination with dance, is set to captivate audiences again this fall – live on tour. Celebrating its momentous 12th season and its exciting new Stage v. Street format, SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE’s Top 10 finalists will make their way across North America performing in 70 cities as part of the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE SEASON 12 TOUR. The Season 12 tour lineup includes the
following Top 10 finalists: Team Stage’s Gaby Diaz, Edson Juarez, Jim Nowakowski, Hailee Payne and Derek Piquette; and Team Street’s Megan “Megz” Alfonso, Eddie “Neptune” Eskridge, Virgil Gadson, Jessica “JJ” Rabone and Jana “Jaja” Vankova. SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE airs Mondays (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX.
The tour kicks off on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the Verizon Theatre in Grand Prairie, TX and crosses the United States and Canada with 70 sensational stops. The first leg of the tour will wrap on Tuesday, Dec. 29 at the Taco Bell Arena in Boise, ID. The dancers will then return for the second leg of the tour in Canada, starting at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria, BC, on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2016.
The official tour routing is available on fox.com/dance. American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets in select markets before the general public beginning Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 10 a.m. local time through Thursday, Aug. 27 at 10 p.m. local time. Tickets go on sale to the public beginning Friday, Aug. 28.
Visit fox.com/dance for more information.
Fall’s hottest ticket will feature this season’s most popular routines from Team Stage and Team Street, as well as original pieces created specifically for the nationwide tour. 19 Entertainment and dick clark productions will present audiences across the country with the opportunity to experience the action brought into their living rooms each week on the beloved summer series, with a variety of sizzling, one-of-a-kind dance routines they have come to enjoy and expect from their favorite dancers.
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE recently received eight 2015 Primetime Emmy® Award nominations, including Outstanding Reality-Competition Program and Outstanding Host In A Reality or Reality-Competition Program (Cat Deeley), in addition to nominations for Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Hairstyling For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special, Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction For A Variety Series, and Outstanding Makeup For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special (Non-Prosthetic). SYTYCD’s exceptional costume team of Marina Toybina and Grainne O’Sullivan also won an Emmy® Award for Outstanding Costumes for a Variety Program.
“I am thrilled with this season’s new Stage vs. Street format and the brilliant, fresh talent we have discovered. These dancers have inspired the choreographers to create remarkable dance numbers each week, truly showcasing individual talent. I am excited for your favorite dancers to bring their inspiration and routines to even more cities on this year’s nationwide tour,” stated Nigel Lythgoe, judge, executive producer and co- creator of the hit FOX series.
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE SEASON 12 TOUR
Tickets on sale starting August 28. Check local venues for more information. Tickets are subject to applicable service charges. Event time and dates subject to change. Check out fox.com/dance for full list of dates and links.
About So You Think You Can Dance
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE was created by Simon Fuller and Nigel Lythgoe and is from 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group, and dick clark productions. The series is executive-produced by Fuller, Lythgoe; Allen Shapiro, CEO of dick clark productions; Barry Adelman, Executive Vice President of dick clark productions; Beverly Frank of 19 Entertainment, James Breen and Jeff Thacker. Visit the official SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE site at www.fox.com/dance to view exclusive videos, photos and contestant profiles. “Like” SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE on Facebook
at www.facebook.com/SoYouThinkYouCanDance. Follow the series on Twitter @DANCEonFOX and join the discussion using #sytycd and #stagevsstreet. Follow host Cat Deeley at @catdeeley, and follow the judges Nigel Lythgoe@dizzyfeet Paula Abdul @PaulaAbdul and Jason Derulo @JasonDerulo.
About 19 Entertainment/CORE Media Group
19 Entertainment is a division of CORE Media Group Inc. and home to iconic and enduring properties like AMERICAN IDOL and SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE. CORE Media Group is a content company that creates quality programing through its in-house creative team and a myriad of partnerships with well- established industry leaders such as Sharp Entertainment, Howie Mandel’s Alevy Productions, Noreen Halpern’s Halfire Entertainment and B-17 Entertainment. Together, CORE’s dynamic group of content creators is producing quality entertainment for over 30 networks. For more information about CORE Media Group, Inc., visit www.coremediagroup.com.
About dick clark productions
dick clark productions (dcp) is the world’s largest producer and proprietor of televised live event entertainment programming with the “Academy of Country Music Awards,” “American Country Countdown Awards,” “American Music Awards,” “Billboard Music Awards,” “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,” “Golden Globe Awards,” “Hollywood Film Awards” and the “Streamy Awards.” Weekly television programming includes “So You Think You Can Dance” from 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group and dcp; “World’s Funniest” from Jukin Media and dcp; as well as “BOOM!” from Keshet DCP, the joint venture between Keshet International (KI), the global distribution and production arm of Keshet Media Group and DC Media, the parent company of dcp. dcp also owns one of the world’s most unique and extensive entertainment archive libraries with more than 55 years of award-winning shows, historic programs, specials, performances and legendary programming. For additional information, visit www.dickclark.com.
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