From the competitive dance scene to the advertising world, one dancer recounts his journey, spotlighting a memorable experience alongside John Travolta. Trained at Performing Dance Arts under Danny and Lisa Poland and Debbie Noce, his foray into professional dance was a natural progression from his competitive background. However, his career trajectory took an unexpected turn, leading him from the stage and screen to the dynamic realm of advertising. Amidst this fascinating transition, the experience of dancing with John Travolta remains a pinnacle.
Reflecting on his professional dance career, the dancer pinpoints his time on the set of the major motion picture “Hairspray” as a definitive highlight. Interestingly, this opportunity arose when he was transitioning out of dance, during his final year of university. Despite shifting his focus towards academics, the allure of “Hairspray” and the chance to be part of such a significant film proved irresistible. Recognizing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he contacted a casting agent, with whom he had a prior working relationship, and passionately requested an audition. His persistence paid off, securing him a role in the film. For him, the standout moment was undeniably “dancing alongside John Travolta,” a memory that encapsulates the peak of his dance career. The film, known for its vibrant dance sequences and stellar cast, provided an unparalleled platform for this dancer to showcase his skills and share the screen with a legendary figure like John Travolta, renowned for his iconic dance performances in films like “Saturday Night Fever” and “Grease”.
Life as a professional dancer, as he describes it, is a blend of exhilarating highs and demanding lows. The “best part” encompasses the enriching connections forged with fellow performers, the opportunity to explore diverse locations, and the sheer joy of pursuing a passion for movement as a profession. He eloquently describes “movement as work” as “a gift,” highlighting its inherently “inspiring and invigorating” nature. Conversely, the “worst part” sheds light on the less glamorous realities of the industry, including the constant struggle for fair treatment and the often-unpredictable nature of payments. This duality underscores the demanding yet rewarding path chosen by professional dancers.
The shift from the dance world to the advertising industry was sparked by his parents’ encouragement to consider higher education. Initially hesitant, he stumbled upon an intriguing program – the York Sheridan Program in Design. Despite the program’s competitive nature and rigorous application process involving essays, portfolios, and interviews, he decided to apply. Securing a scholarship, he embraced this new academic path, marking a significant departure from his dance aspirations. This pivotal moment led him away from the planned move to Los Angeles to pursue dance, and towards a new horizon. Further solidifying this transition, an opportunity with a rapidly growing company, Huge, in New York City emerged just before graduation. Seizing this chance, he relocated to New York, fully immersing himself in the advertising world.
Within the advertising realm, he finds fulfillment in the creative process, the drive for innovation, and the continuous acquisition of knowledge and skills. While hesitant to label anything as the “worst,” he acknowledges the “challenging part” inherent in the industry’s dynamic and intensely competitive landscape. He personally thrives on competition, recognizing the need for agility and adaptability to remain relevant in this ever-evolving field.
Despite his successful transition to advertising, the pull of dance remains strong. He admits to missing it “everyday,” further amplified by his continued connection to the dance world through friends still active in the industry. While his demanding schedule across his job at Huge, entrepreneurial ventures, and personal commitments leaves limited “spare time,” he occasionally returns to the dance studio. He cherishes the rare opportunities to take classes taught by his friends Craig Hollamon and Lindsey Blaufarb, reaffirming his enduring passion for dance.
When asked about “Dancing with the Stars” versus “The Pitch,” he reveals his lack of interest in reality television, admitting to not watching either show. However, he humorously suggests his father, a fan of these programs, would likely offer a more informed opinion. This lighthearted conclusion brings a personal touch to his narrative, rounding out the story of a dancer whose career took an unexpected, yet ultimately fulfilling, path, forever marked by the unforgettable experience of dancing with John Travolta.
