On Your Feet

I am in love with this musical.

I think as an actor, I always liked stories. And I liked that I got to be a part of stories. I actually really enjoy character research. Plays are a motivation for me to learn about different people in different places at different times. I may have absolutely nothing in common with these characters, but that doesn't mean I can't portray them. For the little bit that I'm onstage, I can be them. I get to know all about them. I can play pretend (professionally! hehe). It's why I love theatre so much. Someone else has a story to tell. And they think it's so important that it isn't just something they talk about, but they dedicate years to writing and refining it and sharing it with everyone. And if I'm lucky, I get to help them tell their stories. Stories that a girl like me would never know about otherwise.

Tonight, I saw a room full of people watch a story about people like me. And that's why representation matters. Because the stories of the people who came from Cuba wanting a better life are normal for me. The fast talking, dancing, food loving, family centered life of a Latina is not new to me. It's a story I know. But so so so many people never get to hear or see that story because stories like that are rarely popular. But tonight it was. People stepped into that world and I didn't feel like I was learning something new but like I was watching something already so close to my heart.

On top of that, I LOVE Gloria Estefan. My mom adores her and we've been fans as long as I can remember. Gloria Estefan is my mom's age. Her daughter has the exact same birthday as me. I found that out in middle school when I decided to do a project on her and learn everything I could about her. So, once again, the story was just a bunch of historical facts that I already knew. But I felt so much pride knowing that other people cared enough to learn about her, too. I think she deserves for the world to know and love her. She made a difference for her community through her music, and I'm so happy that this will inspire people to see that side of her.

I knew all the songs. I wanted to dance through the whole show. My heart was overwhelmed with pride. It felt like a concert. I don't think I only want to tell stories about things that I relate to. I think, as an actor, I NEED to be challenged and play roles that are outside my demographics. But I can never express my gratitude for the people who believe that stories from my people are worth sharing.

I don't know what I'll do if I can't act. There's no feeling in the world like it. Nights like tonight remind me that this is the only thing I want to do with my life.

Season 8 Hype

AMERICA'S BEST DANCE CREW IS BACK ON TV

This is important to me for reasons. I actually don't have MTV anymore, so I will have to wait to watch it online. HOWEVER. I have just been so effing pumped all afternoon. I knew it was coming back but I didn't know it would be tonight! It's on as I type. Eep. I can only imagine. I've been rewatching all these awesome crews and remembering some incredible moments and all the insane moves and just ughhhh I love this show and I'm so happy it's back in my life.

Day 29: Jump

 

Sober

This music video.

Choreographed by Ian Eastwood <3

Never Felt So Good

I think this is my favorite video D-Trix has ever posted. 'Cause it's got a whole bunch of my favorite Youtubers being absolute goofballs. And it also has some pretty awesome dancers who I admire. And honestly, all I've ever wanted is just for people to feel content and smile and dance everywhere they go. To me, it's like the ultimate expression of satisfaction.

Forever the King of Pop <3

A Little Party Never Killed Nobody

So rehearsal today was dancing. First we did the maypole dance. Which was exhausting and oh so fun. Then we did a dance to The Lazy Song by Bruno Mars, which will be adorable. And then Ira called rehearsal. So, instead of leave, we all had a dance party. Crazy techno hits and ALL the fun to be had. Seriously, theatre kids are your go-to for a real dance party. A stage. Lights. And the best sound system around. <3

PYT

I.aM.mE Choreography

to A Mike Tompkins Cover

of PYT by Michael Jackson

the "How I Made This" section makes it perfect

Shall We Dance?

Reason 316: Let's be honest. Today sucked. Why? Because it happens. Life is not always so positive and sometimes that builds up. So we cry. But that's good! Have you ever had that? Just a really good cry. Where you just let everything go? Really, just release whatever may be hurting your heart, as simple or complex as it may be. It all just gets released. And then you relax. You get your energy back, and you face the world feeling brand new. You've let go of all the negative. And are ready to take in all the positive! Starting with the incredible friends around you that want to help you do so.

I long for a world where, when it really gets tough, I can just go dancing.

I Love Salsa!

Reason 75: Salsa music. We went to a history lesson/concert and OMG SO FUN. I seriously adored my time there. And the guys were so funny. And it was so great dancing. And I felt like I was home haha. Bestest!

They Came From Way Far Out In Outerspace

Reason 59: We just flash-mobbed the mall! It was so fun! Yay Hairspray! And we had a blast. You could tell we all had SUCH high energy. I was impressed with us. I think we're ready for this :D Also, fun with Adrian, John, & Jennifer once again. We are the best team! And I now ship John & Adrian (teehee i kid i kid. It's so funny how much it bothers them though). And I stole John's newsboy cap that he wears ALL THE TIME mwuahah. But I feel bad because I dunno how to get it back to him. Whoops!

I'll share video once I HAVE it. Until then, here's a few I thoroughly enjoy.