LETTER FROM OUR FOUNDER This issue is incredibly meaningful to me because the stories we are sharing inspire us to look beyond perceived limitations and appreciate our inner potential. I have reread these stories multiple times and continue to be inspired by the strength and ambition of these individuals. This issue is a celebration of the undeniable power of dance. The act of overcoming obstacles involves facing fears, pushing boundaries, and persevering in the face of adversity. It teaches us valuable lessons about patience, courage, and the strength within us. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, let us remember that overcoming obstacles is not just about reaching the destination but also about embracing the lessons learned along the way. It is a powerful reminder that challenges, when faced head-on, can become stepping stones to success.
B
1
22 32 38 44 50 54 56 64 68 94
Life Without Limits Quiz! What’s Stopping You? Teen Toolkit to Manage ur Feelings Dance is Limitless Body Image Building Your No Limits List A Dancer’s Guide To: Showstopper Regionals World Tour (Taylor’s Version) Dance Revolution Tips for Recovering from an Injury
18
Brooke Maroon
30
ILL-Abilities
34
Isabella Esler
40
Anya Nichols
46
Jaidyn Triplett
48
Michelle Rasul
52
Nicole Burdett
60
LA Rollettes
4 Editor’s Letter 6 What is Showstopper? 14 Showstopper Magazine Online 66 Journey to Crystal 72 A Day in the Life of Luca Patuelli 76 Fashion Inspired by the Eras Tour 84 Inspired Spaces 95 Crossword
SPRING 2024 GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM/MAGAZINE
INSTAGRAM: @goshowstopper TIKTOK: @goshowstopper FACEBOOK: /goshowstopper YOUTUBE: @showstoppervideos
4
B
A few of my favorite Instas from this season! Tag us @goshowstopper for a chance to be featured. FOUNDERS
Debbie & Dave Roberts EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Holly Childs CREATIVE CONSULTANT: Debbie Roberts • FASHION DIRECTOR: Angel Roberts • ASSOCIATE FASHION STYLISTS: Georgia VanNewkirk, Hazel VanNewkirk LEAD DESIGNER: Holly Childs • ASSOCIATE DESIGNERS: Nikki Cole, Cynthia Baez • LEAD COPY EDITOR: Veronica Good • ASSOCIATE EDITORS: Debbie Roberts, Nikki Cole, Abbey Macho, Christin Sandidge, Jess Cranney, Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk, Hazel VanNewkirk PHOTOGRAPHERS: Ana Ochoa, Holly Childs, Eva Nys, Mia Booker Sease-Bey, Joaquin Brignoni, Tim Schaeffer, Kalie Pontes, Sofia Negron, Bernie NG, Jacob Jonas, Jerick Collantes, James Chua • WRITERS: Holly Childs, Veronica Good, Hayley Mac • DIRECTORS OF PROCUREMENT AND LOCATIONS: Adam Roberts, Greg Kajcienski
SHOWSTOPPER
Photography: (Left) Holly Childs, (Right) Instagram • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Holly Childs, Veronica Good
NATIONAL DIRECTOR: Debbie Roberts PRESIDENT: Dave Roberts CORPORATE & EVENT PRODUCTION MANAGING EDITOR OF SHOWSTOPPER MAGAZINE ONLINE: Veronica Good • DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT AND LEGAL AFFAIRS: Abbey Macho DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: Richard Knox DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND MEDIA RELATIONS: Nikki Cole • CONTROLLER: Kim Kouba • ASSISTANT CONTROLLER: Craig Goeppinger • SENIOR VIDEOGRAPHER AND MEDIA PRODUCTION SPECIALIST: Earl Tyndall • EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS: Dana Decker, Cynthia Baez • TRAVEL DIRECTOR: Christin Sandidge • DIRECTOR OF LOGISTICS: James Williams SPECIAL PROJECTS: Mike Wager DIRECTOR OF EVENT OPERATIONS: Laura Button PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jon Greene • TECHNICAL DIRECTORS: Jeff Cole, Jamie Holliday, Brad Bowles, Jason Hunsucker ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTORS: Mike Langley, Jay Kallett, Derek Porter • SHOW DIRECTORS: Heather Bills, Katie Akers ASSOCIATE SHOW DIRECTORS: Madison Coleman, Mackenzi Pizana • OPERATIONS PLANNING ASSISTANT: Jess Cranney
SPECIAL THANKS TO: (IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE): Misty Copeland, Sammy Rae, Kayle DiVenere, Triple Charm, Ashlei Foushee, Rikki Valentina, Brooke Maroon, Sam Shapiro, Evan Ruggiero, Robin Olive, Judine Somerville, Sydney Alie, Arielle Elonys, Diego Pasillas, Luca Patuelli, ILL-Abilities, Isabella Esler, Anya Nichols, Jaidyn Triplett, Michelle Rasul, Nicole Burdett, Chelsie Hill, LA Rollettes, Kennedy Paige
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
5
6
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
7
Design: Nikki Herr • Writing: Veronica Good
8
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
9
Photography: Provided by Dancers • Design: Nikki Herr • Photo Ediiting: Christin Sandidge
14
B
Photography: Joaquin Brignon (Triple Charm), Kalie Pontes (Rikki Valentina) • Design: Holly Childs • Interviews: Veronica Good
B
Photography: Tim Schaeffer (Ashlei Foushee), Lili Skyler (Kayla DiVenere), Holly Childs (Sammy Rae) • Design: Holly Childs • Interviews: Veronica Good
17
Embarking on a creative
heavily in my heart that there
“I had A LOT of people doubt
journey often involves
was no other option,” Brooke
me,” she revealed. “So many
navigating uncharted
shared. With the support of her
people thought that I didn’t
waters, and for Brooke
mother and newfound training,
have ‘what it takes' to dance
Maroon, the path from
Brooke's journey to Los Angeles
professionally.” Brooke
small-town Iowa to high-
started right after high school.
didn’t let that stop her from
energy Los Angeles has
“The second I graduated, I
chasing her dreams. “Those
been nothing short of
packed up, and my mom and
doubts kept me pretty
an adventure. Brooke's
I drove my Honda Civic hybrid
motivated for a long time.
childhood was infused
out to Los Angeles and that
I felt like I had to prove to
with dance, and she
adventure hasn’t stopped since.”
everyone that I could do it.”
a hyper kid that wanted
The journey didn’t come without
Soon the motivation to prove
to show everyone the
fear, but Brooke used this as
others wrong became the
dances that [she] made
motivation. “I didn’t really know
drive to prove herself right.
up.” Now, after a decade
anyone in Los Angeles so I was
“Now, I am self-motivated,”
in Los Angeles, she reflects
going into uncharted territory,”
Brooke said. “I want to push
on her evolution as a
she explained, “but it just felt
myself past limits that I
professional dancer, actor,
like I had no other choice other
never believed that I could
and choreographer.
than to do it and to see what
do. I want to prove to myself
happened. I think I switched
that anything is possible and
any fear I was feeling into
that I am worthy of those
excitement. Any nervousness
dream moments."
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
describes herself as “being
SMALL-TOWN START Brooke's childhood dreams
turned into butterflies in my
of being a professional
stomach because that feeling
dancer never waivered.
meant that I cared about what I
Despite not being the
was doing and that I wanted it.”
standout dancer in local competitions, she harbored
FINDING INSPIRATION Pushing past her fears definitely paid off. Los
OVERCOMING DOUBTS
an unshakable belief
Angeles has been the perfect backdrop for
that she would dance
The challenges didn’t stop
building her
professionally in Los
there, and Brooke faced a lot of
dancing
Angeles. “I believed it so
skepticism early in her career. @GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
19
and acting career–both in
TRUSTING HER GUT
opportunity and exposure to diversity. “Los Angeles
There’s no shortage of
is filled with people from
inspiration in Los Angeles,
everywhere… places you
and while this has helped
have never even heard
Brooke, it’s also proved to
of,” she shared. While Los
be a challenge. Describing
Angeles itself is a melting
herself as someone who
pot of people, it’s at Brooke’s
feels like many different
restaurant jobs that she
things on different days,
believes she’s gained the most
Brooke's artistic pursuits
insight. “You get to see and
span dancing, choreography,
"I think making connections is
meet people on a different
acting, and even working
probably the most important
level than just meeting them
for Showstopper! This
part of this industry. It is
on the street,” she explained.
many passions makes it
never really about how
“You see how they act at
hard to choose, but Brooke
talented you are, it’s about
dinner, how they interact
trusts her intuition when it
how good of a human you
with their friends at the table,
comes to prioritizing. "I try
are and who you know. So
the kind of food they order,
to ask myself what I feel
never burn any bridges and
what their table manners are,
most excited about and see
treat others with respect.
what kinds of questions that
whatever is flowing my way.
they ask, how their posture
I find that when I try to force
is, if they are kind to service
something it never works."
My biggest piece of advice is to make meaningful
industry workers, etc.”
connections with people that
Brooke uses the same
you like to be around. People
Now, she uses these
approach when it comes
that make you feel inspired
experiences as perspective
to the art that she creates.
and joyful. There might be
when she’s acting. “When
“I think as dancers, we are
someone you really want
you are an actor, you are
all pretty in tune with our
to work for, but if they don’t
playing characters that grew
body,” she shared. “It’s our
make you feel good, it isn’t
up in all kinds of places and
instrument, so we need to
worth it. There are so many
situations,” Brooke shared.
be." So when she creates she
amazing people out there
“Those are the things that
tries to "stay out of [her] head
that truly want to help and
have a huge impact on the
and fully in [her] body." Her
build you up positively. Stay
kind of person we all become.
advice for others wanting to
away from those who give
Those things shape us, and
create art that's authentic?
you bad feelings or make you
I believe that observing
"Trust your gut. Trust your
feel less about yourself. Your
different types of people with
heart. Trust your feelings.
circle of people will make or
different lifestyles has helped
Sometimes your brain is
break your career. Make sure
me be able to understand
trying to protect you a little
it is strong and you can trust
some characters that didn’t
too much to where it holds
those around you like they
grow up in Iowa with the
you back, and I think there is
are your family."
lifestyle that I had. If I am
something in our heart that
not exposed to something,
sees the path a little clearer
how would I ever be able
without judgment."
to portray it truly?”
20
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
Some dancers immediately make
EARLY SUCCESS
your jaw drop when you see
While some dancers struggle for years to break into the industry,
them perform, and Diego Pasillas
Diego's journey into the world
Diego did so at an impressively
is one of them. At just 20 years
of performance began at just 7
early age. “After graduating high
old, Diego has achieved what
years old. Driven by a love for
school, I immediately got hired to
many dancers only dream of. We
entertaining, he first tried his
dance for Derek Hough in his
caught up with him to dive into
hand at gymnastics. However,
Las Vegas Residency Show,
his journey–breaking into the
it didn't take long for him to
‘No Limit,’” he shared. Diego
industry, winning World of Dance,
realize that his true passion was
actually bought his first house in
and pushing boundaries with his
elsewhere. “I knew my path was
Los Angeles at just 19,
gravity-defying moves.
dance,” Diego shared.
giving him the
26
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
stability to zero in on his career. And that focus certainly paid off. On top of winning World of Dance (more on that later!), he has been in TV shows and music videos, worked with major artists, and even made his debut in a Paramount movie. WORLD OF DANCE VICTORY While Diego’s solo career is undeniably impressive, his collaborative efforts shine just as brightly. MDC 3, a dynamic dance trio comprised of Madison Smith, Emma Mather, and himself, auditioned for every season of World of Dance since Season 1. Despite their persistent efforts to land a spot on the show, it wasn't until Season 4 that MDC 3 had their breakthrough. In hindsight, the group saw this as a blessing. “[The] timing was perfect because if we would’ve gotten on the show in a previous season, we might not have made it as far as we did,” he shared. “We were so young and still needed so much improvement and maturity.” Their hard work paid off, and the trio finally overcame the odds on Season 4, securing the coveted crown. "Honestly, I couldn’t believe it. It felt like a dream and everything was moving in slow motion!" he revealed about their win. EMOTIONAL IMPACT The emotional impact of MDC 3's performances, notably praised by Jennifer Lopez, is a result of meticulous planning. Diego unveiled their creative process, emphasizing the importance of storytelling. "All of our pieces will always have a strong concept and story before we create any moves," Diego explained. Emma's mother and MDC 3 choreographer, Shannon Mather, is "always looking for the right intention behind every single move, lift, trick, etc." And the right move isn’t always the one that gets the biggest reaction, sometimes the beauty is in the subtlety. "When we would rehearse for our pieces, the show choreographers (Nappytabs) would actually change or take out some of the big 'wow' moves,"
28
B
Diego shared. "[They’d] tell us to create just a simple moment between the three of us for the story to really come across on TV." The emotions behind Diego’s dancing don't just affect the audience, though. For him, dance is an escape. “[It] is for sure my safe space,” he revealed. “Dance means so much to me, and it will always be my first love. If I’m feeling down one day, I dance, and it’s basically like my therapy. I can use my struggles and insecurities in dance, and in a way, dance helps me get through these troubles." PUSHING BOUNDARIES Winning a major TV show at just 17 years old, it’s no surprise that Diego aims to push boundaries. Many of his (and MDC 3’s) performances feature gravity-defying moves and breathtaking tricks that often leave the audience wondering, ‘How did they even do that?!’ Diego delved into the details of how they pull off these awe-inspiring routines, "The process behind our tricks and lifts is actually just us playing in the studio together and basically just trying anything," he shared. “We fail and fall a lot but sometimes those failures turn into something cool or we see different ways of moving. Sometimes, choreo will flow out like water while other days we are stuck on a part for hours and only make up six counts that day." His advice for dancers who have similar aspirations? “Never let the bad days get you down. Remember that those days are what matters the most and will push you even more and know that it’s all a part of the process to becoming the best dancer."
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
29
Photography: James Chua (Crew Photo), Jacob Jonas (Luca Patuelli) Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
Meet ILL-Abilities, the dance crew formed by b-boy and motivational entertainer Luca “Lazylegs” Patuelli, a group that Luca formed to “create a supercrew or all-star team of some of the best dancers in the world that had different disabilities.” Starting in 2007, he found those dancers across five different continents at dance competitions, battles, and even viral dance videos. The name of the crew is a play on words that combines the dancers’ disabilities with hip hop terminology. “The word ‘ILL’ literally means ‘sick,’ but in the hip hop world, it means ‘amazing’ and ‘incredible,’” Luca explained the name's origins. “So, ILL-Abilities means ‘amazing and incredible abilities.’
ILL-Abilities is currently made up of eight b-boys from countries around the world who represent a variety of disabilities. The crew includes Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli, Jacob “Kujo” Lyons, Sergio “Checho” Miranda Carvajal, Redouan “Redo” Ait Chitt, Jungsoo “Krops” Lee, Samuel “Samuka” Da Silveira Lima, Lucas “Perninha” Machado, and “Junior” Bosila Banya. These dancers were each professionals in their own right before they found the crew and still perform solo. “Each dancer has a different disability and has adapted themselves to become some of the world’s most influential breakers and in the worldwide breakin’ circuit,” Luca said.
ILL-Abilities has performed in over 25 countries since their founding members made their debut in 2008. They refer to what they do as “motivational entertainment.” This is about dance and public speaking to entertain audiences with their dance skills and uniquely adapted styles and to share their “No excuses. No limits.” message. Their performances include dance, interactive moments, and sharing their stories to motivate and inspire but also to give them “an opportunity to see people with disabilities in a more positive way.” Each member of ILL-Abilities has a completely different style of dance that they balance off of each other during performances. “We also rely a lot on mirroring movement together,” Luca shared, “so we will mirror each other in the moment to create a connection in our performance. Sometimes this is improvised in the moment and other times it is planned.”
One of the ILL-Abilities performances that Luca is most proud of took place in a juvenile detention center in Tokyo, Japan in 2019. “…In the beginning of the presentation the energy in the room was so "cold," "stiff," and severe that you could hear a pin drop. By the end of the presentation, we had all juveniles with the guards dancing together. It was a beautiful moment that showed us the power of dance and the best of humanity coming together,” he shared. The group works to “give [their] audiences energy to believe in themselves,” and that is evident no matter where the dance takes them.
32
B
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
Growing up in the vibrant
profound appreciation
theater community of
for all that goes into
California's San Francisco
making a show. “I was
Bay Area, Isabella Esler
really able to learn
was introduced to the
about community and
arts at a young age.
working with others at a
At just 6, her parents
young age,” she shared.
put her in a theater
“That’s a very important
production, and it was
part of the arts, in my
there she discovered
opinion, being able
the passion that led to her playing
to collaborate. I think doing it for so long really
Lydia Deetz
made me appreciate
in Broadway’s
the entire process.” It’s
Beetlejuice.
this love of the process and appreciation for
Being
collaboration that
exposed
made her shine in her
to the arts
Broadway role.
so young, Isabella has
FINDING ACCEPTANCE
developed a Landing the role of Lydia was a full-circle moment for Isabella, a culmination of her admiration for the musical and a chance to contribute to a story she’s “loved for so long.” But the path from local theater productions to securing a leading role in a national tour wasn't without its challenges. Isabella acknowledges the common struggle actors face – the temptation to be overly self-critical. "I think it’s easy to be hard on yourself,” she shared. “It’s really easy to get discouraged when something doesn’t go the way you hope it does, whether that’s not being able to hit a note right away or not being able to get a scene right away.
But I have definitely learned over time that we’re all just learning and getting better.” CONNECTING AND COLLABORATING Portraying Lydia has been a unique journey for Isabella, rooted in collaboration and shared experiences. At 16, she discovered the show and felt a connection with Lydia, finding echoes of her own teenage experiences in the character's story. So when she got the role, she knew she could put that energy into the
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
show. “I can bring myself into her character
that takes
because I honestly don’t
time to feel ‘natural’ for
feel that different from
me,” she said, “especially
her,” Isabella shared.
when the show can go
She also drew upon
from chaotic and goofy
her scene partners for
to being a little more
emotional cues and
somber.” She embraced
inspiration. “I think I take
it wholeheartedly
a lot of my emotions
though, and just as
from a reflection of my
the tone fluctuates
scene partners,” Isabella
throughout the
explained. “I [take] in my
show, Isabella’s
surroundings and what
favorite scene
other people are saying,
changes every
and I'm able to react in a
week. At the
more authentic way.”
time of our interview,
The role wasn’t without
she said,
its challenges, though,
”I think my
and the tone shifts
favorite right
throughout were
now is in ‘Say
something Isabella
My Name’
had to get used to.
where
“It’s definitely something
Beetlejuice is trying to
CHANGING HER PATH
ON HER DREAM ROLE OF EURYDICE IN HADESTOWN
convince Lydia to say his name three times,” she
A role on Broadway was life
told us. “The entire time
changing for Isabella, but it
Lydia is just teasing and
actually wasn’t part of her
tricking Beetlejuice, and
“plan” (until she got the part,
it is really fun to play
that is!). “I was sure I was going
around in this scene.”
to college,” she shared. While she didn’t follow the typical
ADJUSTING
trajectory of a college-bound teenager, Isabella believes
On top of tackling the
there is no “wrong” path,
nuances of the role
especially when it comes to
itself, adjusting to the
the arts. “Everyone that I have
demanding schedule of
met have all had different
eight shows a week in
experiences on how they get
different cities was also
into the industry,” she revealed.
a challenge for Isabella.
Hers just happened to be in the
“Being in a different
form of a Broadway role! While
city every week with
she believes college can be the
a different altitude,
best path for some, Isabella
temperature, etc. will
said she “wouldn’t change
always affect your voice
[her decision] for anything."
and energy,” she shared. “It took some time to
After having her plans shift so
learn how to adjust to the
quickly, Isabella has embraced
unique characteristics of
the unknown when it comes
each city.”
to her career. She believes the right step “depends on
What helped her the
each person and what they
most during the tour was
want." She attributes her
listening to the valuable
success so far to keeping an
advice she received
open mind. “Don’t stress too
from others while on
much about one path and be
tour. “Listen to your
open to anything!”
body,” she said. “I heard this so many times until
We can’t help but be
I actually started to do
inspired by Isabella’s
it. It’s really easy to push
flexibility to what life
yourself when you know
throws her way, and we
your body is not up for
can’t wait to see what she
it which can lead to
does next. While you can
burnout. Once I started
no longer catch one of her
to take more time to
Broadway shows live, you
listen when my body and
can always check out the
mind needed a break, I
highlights on YouTube.
think it got a little easier
Just type in: Beetlejuice,
for me.”
Beetlejuice, Beetlejui…
"I just love that entire score, and I would love to be able to sing it. It’s funny, but I think Eurydice is a little similar to Lydia in the way that she’s passionate, clever, and tough but is able to open up." ON HOW HER FASHION SENSE REFLECTS HOW SHE LIVES HER LIFE "I actually think my approach to life is literally the opposite of my fashion sense. I love to be busy and to be doing anything that can contribute to my career and aspirations. I think because my life can get so busy, I like my clothing to be a little more simple sometimes." ON HOW SHE ADJUSTED DURING A DIFFICULT TIME "[During the pandemic], all of my performances and productions had been canceled. It was hard not being able to do something that you love for a reason you can’t control. Luckily, I had ways for me to still be involved in the arts even from home. I took a lot of voice lessons on Zoom, took some acting classes, and I did Zoom performances at my school! It was definitely difficult to do all of these things but it was a fun challenge and it was a new experience for me. I’m very thankful that I was able to find ways to still be able to act and perform even in difficult times."
B
37
38
B
Design/Writing: Holly Childs
Anya Nichols' passion for dance was "sparked by her family." Growing up with a professional dancer as a mother, she started her journey at Denise Wall's dance studio where her mother also trained. "It was full circle for me to be starting there as well," she shared. "I grew up trying a lot of sports, like soccer, basketball, and baseball. But once I started doing studio, competing, and going to conventions… I [knew] that dance was what I wanted to do. It was the only sport I had drive for and full happiness in. There’s nothing that compares to how I feel when I’m able to express myself and dance." STYLES AND INSPIRATION Growing up in the studio led her to discover her favorite styles of dance. "I really enjoyed lyrical and ballet," she shared. However, as she planned for her future in the industry, she recognized the importance of training in hip hop and stage, which eventually became her favorites. "I find I am the most confident and comfortable when doing those styles." Now, she gets a lot of her inspiration from choreographers like Cameron Lee, Luther Brown, Ysabelle Caps, Nat Bat, and Sean Bankhead. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES The dance world is not without its challenges of course, but Anya saw them as opportunities to grow. She moved to California and joined Mather Dance Company, which was a difficult but transformative experience. "Mentally and physically it was very challenging but I have never grown so much,” she reflected. "Their training is absolutely amazing and really shaped me into the dancer I am today.” Getting signed by an agency and booking her first job at the Latin Grammys for J Balvin also marked a huge milestone. “It was such a surreal moment for me and it really gave me validation that I can do dance as my job,” she shared.
On top of career challenges, Anya has also had to find ways to work through wavering self-esteem. "Staying positive and having mindfulness is a big thing that gets me through those tough times," she explained. "I continue to always stay thankful for any experience I have. Knowing that I should be grateful that I am able to pursue something I’ve loved for so long." EXPRESSING HERSELF Dance has also helped Anya to "connect to people in a different way." "[In] dance, people show different parts of themselves they usually wouldn’t show anywhere else. Having that intimacy with people is what makes these dance connections so great.” She also believes dance has helped her grow as a person and process her emotions. "[It] has really made me who I am," she shared. "It’s helped me so much with self-expression. When I was younger I had such a hard time expressing my emotions. However, dance was always that outlet for me to do so. It was a way for me to get out of my head and be fully present within myself and body. It was a way for me to fully feel [the] emotions that I was never able to express outside of dance. There’s a genuine connection within dance and how you are feeling. Emotion is always connected in dance. It is literally fueled by emotion." As she looks towards the future, Anya
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
simply hopes to be “booked and blessed.” Inspired by her mom’s touring and traveling days, she's made it one of her goals, too. “Hearing the things she learned and how much she grew from that experience makes me want to reach that goal even more.” In the meantime, she plans to stay focused on her training and to keep working hard towards her goals.
B
41
42
B
B
43
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
Jaidyn Triplett, a rising star in
I'll never forget. That whole night
acting, music, content creation,
was crazy! I met so many people
baking, and entrepreneurship,
I never thought I'd meet. I met
shows us just how beautiful
Jordan Fisher, who I absolutely
embracing a multifaceted,
adore!" Jaidyn reminisced. The
limitless creative life can be.
night was not only filled with star-studded encounters but
"BOP STAR" AND THE EP
also a full-circle moment. "My dad was in Sabrina Carpenter's
Jaidyn's debut single "Bop Star"
'Thumbs' music video, and he
isn't just a catchy melody; it's
ended up FaceTiming me. Fast
a testament to following one's
forward, I’m on the orange carpet
passion for performing. The song,
and I see her. I mentioned that
embodying a confident alter ego,
we met over the phone in like
set the stage for her evolving
2015 and she’s like, ‘Oh yeah! I
musical career. "'Bop Star' was
remember you!’ I couldn’t believe
meant to be a different take on a
she still remembered me! From
'popstar.' In the song, I'm bragging
FaceTiming her when I was like 7
that every song I put out is gonna
years old to now on stage handing
be a hit." We love the manifestation!
me a Kids' Choice Award!"
As for the EP, Jaidyn promises
PASSION PROJECT
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
fans the “unexpected.” “With this EP, I've noticed that there is
Outside of music, Jaidyn is also
a style of music for everyone–
passionate about acting and
some pop, alternative, etc. So I
producing, most recently working
am really excited for fans to listen
on a project called Spy Abigail.
to their faves." The collection of
"It's actually a show that I created
songs mirrors Jaidyn's “versatile
when I was only 7 years old,” she
personality,” drawing inspiration
explained. “It's currently under
from many different artists.
development with 3 episodes
(Icelandic singer Laufey’s “From
already written.” What began as
the Start” even inspired Jaidyn
a childhood creation turned into
to do a jazz song on the album.)
a real-life passion project. "When
And if you're wondering about her
my dad introduced the idea of
favorite track, it's her latest single,
bringing it to life, it got me really
"Tornado." "All of them were so
excited. I know that 7-year-old me
beautifully done, but that one
would be so proud."
really makes my eyes light up." Now, Jaidyn is working on her KIDS' CHOICE AWARDS
baking business, something she started during quarantine and
Jaidyn's accolades include a
loves so much she plans to pursue
memorable win at the Kids'
in college. With so many passions,
Choice Awards, a night filled with
it's hard to imagine how she juggles
surreal encounters with some of
it all but Jaidyn isn't deterred. "I
her idols. "[It was] an experience
don’t ever want to limit myself."
48
B
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
How young is too young to
“My mom helped a lot, and my dad
including one with NPR that put
accomplish your dreams? For
also helped, and my dog also gave
her on the radar of her publisher
11-year-old Michelle Rasul (DJ
a lot of advice. It was really fun.”
and set the project in motion.
Michelle on stage), that number is
This family team worked together
really low. The world’s youngest
over the last two years to bring us
At various times when we talked
professional female DJ in the world,
happy memories, DJ-ing basics, and
to Michelle, she shared her
Michelle lives by the idea that
inspiration in the form of this book.
excitement over every detail of the
“Passion has no age, no gender.” She
Michelle loves telling stories, and this
book from the page designs (done
started DJing at 5. “I said, ‘I want to
book is filled with them, including
in her favorite colors) to her love of
be a world-famous DJ, specifically a
some that she initially wrote as
writing. “I still can’t believe I have
world-famous DJ, and six years later,
school assignments.
my, literally, own book!” The book is
here I am.” Now, she’s written a book about how she got there.
a celebration of Michelle’s journey There is also a lot of DJ joy here.
so far and, of course, her career
Michelle shared with us that DJing
as a DJ which she said, ” I don’t
Michelle’s father Vagif (or DJ
gives her a feeling she calls “excite-
see myself being anything—I have
Shock) is one of her biggest
nervousness” because “I’m a bit
hobbies, but I want to continue
inspirations. Watching him mix
nervous at the start and I’m excited.
doing this for my whole life.”
music and practice is what
Then the nervousness goes away,
inspired her to ask for her own
and it’s so cool.” She talks about her
The book, like Michelle herself,
equipment and to set some
biggest moments on stage (Michelle
has been touched by major music
massive goals for herself—”It’s
loves a large, “super hyped-out”
icons. One of those icons, Wyclef
my dad’s fault.” Love and passion
crowd) like performing at the
Jean, wrote the foreword for I AM
were all she needed to drive her.
Coca-Cola arena and becoming the
DJ MICHELLE. “I was so excited to
“First of all, I love everything to
youngest DJ to compete at the DMC
meet him,” she said. “I actually
do with music,” Michelle shared
DJ Championships.
got to perform with him on stage.
with us. “Second, from when I was
It was so cool. He calls himself
small, I had this interest to be on
The DMC DJ Championships—”If
‘Uncle Wyclef Jean’ to me. It’s so
a stage. Even before I became a
you’re a battle DJ, you have to try
amazing. It’s so cool to have a
DJ, I told my mom, ‘I wanna be
it out. It’s super important. It’s like
friend like that.”
on stage,’ and we went to these
the Olympics.”— are what led to I
acting clubs for kids and stuff.”
AM DJ MICHELLE. She competed
Above all, Michelle hopes people
for the first time in 2021 among
will be inspired by her stories.
Stories like these fill Michelle’s book
85 other professional, adult, male
“Sometimes things go wrong and
I AM DJ MICHELLE: How a Nine-
DJs. If that wasn’t impressive
you try something and it doesn’t
Year-Old DJ Became a Global
enough, she got 14th place. After
work [but] never give up and always
Phenomenon which she wrote with
her success in the competition,
believe in yourself and remember
the help of her parents (and her dog).
she had many, many interviews,
that passion has no age."
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
51
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
Growing up in Fayetteville, NC, Nicole Burdett, or “Coley,” as some call her, found her passion for everything related to performing arts. Nicole’s talents are boundless, and she seamlessly blends her passion of dance, choreography, acting, and modeling. FINDING HER PASSION Nicole spent a lot of her young years in the dance studio, so there was no question about her love for dance. But it wasn’t until she participated in a local Christmas show that she found a few other passions: performance and philanthropy. The show, called The Heart of Christmas Show, raised $775,000 with 100 percent of ticket sales given to local children charities. “[It] was the first time in my life where I felt like I was a part of something bigger than myself,” Nicole shared. “It’s what made me realize where my heart is.”
Dance will always
be her first love,
but when she can
combine it with
positive change, it's
potential is limitless. Nicole
SEAS THE DAY
believes that “art has the power to heal, implement
Nicole’s first
change, and influence
professional job
people positively.”
was for Norwegian Cruise Lines where
Photography: Ana Ochoa • Design/Writing: Holly Childs
DREAM COME TRUE
she was a rehearsal
see the show
swing (an understudy
inside-out and
Inspired by her passion
of several roles). It didn’t
from multiple
for performance, Nicole
come without hardships,
characters’
began training at the
though, and Nicole had
perspectives.”
American Musical and
to learn six tracks for four
Dramatic Academy
shows in a short amount
(AMDA) which she
of time. “[It] challenged
described as “a dream
me mentally but set me
While Nicole has gone
would be looking to
come true.” Training with
up for success in a lot of
on to dance, model,
hire me, and when they
some of the industry’s
ways,” Nicole revealed.
choreograph, and teach
came looking, I had to
leading performers,
“Every night, I could be
(for Showstopper!), it
be ready.”
Nicole found many
found running through
hasn’t always come
mentors that “helped
the tracks in case I was
easy due to her height.
She began showing up to
mold and guide [her]
needed the next day.
“My entire life I grew
everything and learning
through her career.”
I never wanted to be
up being the tallest
which casting directors
“I had a teacher who
caught unprepared.”
dancer,” she explained.
were known to hire tall
“Sometimes, I’d go to
dancers. And, at the same
would show up and
FACING CHALLENGES commercial, or movie
teach my 8AM ballet
While it took her a bit to
20 auditions, and I’d
time, she began modeling
class, then directly
get the lay of the land
be lucky if I fell into the
which “helped [her] build
head downtown to
(sea?), it ended up being
height requirement for
a confidence [she] never
42nd street for their
an incredibly rewarding
one of them," she said.
knew [she] needed.
Broadway matinee
experience. “Being
It hurt because it was
Suddenly, she was
show. AMDA helped me
a swing is one of the
something she couldn't
praised for something
find my voice and light
hardest jobs, and it gave
change. "I couldn’t shrink
she felt was holding her
in the performing arts
me a huge respect for
three inches like I could
back. “Modeling came at
and I’m grateful for the
the position,” she shared.
nail a triple pirouette.”
a time I needed it most,”
experience.”
It allows performers to
she shared. She soon realized she had to shift her mindset. “If you want it, you have to keep showing up and putting in the work. The right show,
You are on a journey that has more in store for you than you could ever imagine. The possibilities are endless, but only you can determine how far you will, and can go. Creating and accomplishing an item on your bucket list is extremely fulfilling but often comes alongside you pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone and what you think you are capable of. Let’s get started! Prepare your bucket list by writing things down that you can accomplish this year, and don’t be afraid to let go of the status quo! This list is a great way to get all your ideas on paper and to spark inspiration. Building your [no] limits list means that you are searching to experience all that you were created to be and honoring the desires of your heart. A rich and fulfilling life is never about the material things what we have, but what we experience! Experience ignites passion! And what you experience might point you in a new direction, to a new dream, or a to new opportunity that you have never dreamed of! Bucket lists are made to become a reality! Of course, life will bring everyone challenges. But focus on what you can control, and work toward that. Confront your obstacles in faith, not fear! Dare to think outside of the box and try new things. By building your [no] limits list, you will be reminded that you can work through any difficulty, stretch beyond your perceived limits, and achieve more than you ever thought was possible (not to mention having a whole lot of FUN in the process)! Let’s do this!
54
B
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Hayley Mac Cooper
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
In the world of dance, where
a huge narrative around disability
expression knows no boundaries,
that disabled people are 'limited'
the LA Rollettes have emerged
and 'bound.' We strive to dispute
not only as a powerhouse dance
that, and show people that there’s
team but as a transformative
nothing “less than” about having
community that empowers
a disability. Disabled people have
women with disabilities. We
proven just how powerful and
sat down and chatted with the
capable we are, and the Rollettes
team behind the LA Rollettes to
aims to highlight that."
share more of their story and opportunities with you! The Rollettes is more than just a dance team; it's a community of empowered women. Can you tell us about the origin story of the Rollettes and how the group has evolved since its inception? "The Rollettes started back in 2012. Chelsie Hill, Rollettes Founder/CEO, was injured when she was in high school, and felt a strong desire for both dance and community after
“A boundless babe sets their mind on something and goes for it. They pursue independence mentally, physically and emotionally. They prove to everyone and themselves that they can do anything.” —Chelsie Hill
her diagnosis. Having danced for the majority of her life, Chelsie
What are some of the challenges
pulled together as many women
the Rollettes have overcome
with disabilities as she could for
as a wheelchair dance team,
a dance class. That was just the
and how have these challenges
beginning. The need for friends,
strengthened the team's bond and
especially those that understand
determination?
what you’re going through more
"Some people may hold the
than most, is what drove her and
opinion that wheelchair users
the founding members of the
can’t dance. We find this to be a
team to keep going. Today, we
very limited opinion, and want
aim to empower women and girls
to open the minds of others
with disabilities to live boundlessly
and prove them wrong. For us,
and shift perspectives through
dance is a massive outlet of
dance globally."
creativity, but also showcases the power of disability. With every
You refer to members of your
performance, we’re challenged
community as "Boundless Babes.”
by our environment, but we never
What does this mean to you?
stop dancing, and we never will."
"Anyone can be a Boundless Babe. It’s a mindset that prepares one
How can people interested in joining
for their biggest dreams and
the Rollettes or supporting the team
goals. To us, living boundlessly
get involved and contribute?
means not letting anyone or
"We love connecting with others
anything get in your way. There’s
on social media! A lot of events
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
61
(like the Rollettes Experience) we
before. Through movement,
workshops. Adaptive yoga, seated
host, our travels, and upcoming
confidence is achieved, and
bodyweight workouts, and group
opportunities are shared there.
giving our attendees a space to
intensive workouts are usually on
Every year or two, we open up
feel that is one of our favorite
the schedule of events for RE. This
our Lil Sis program, which gives
things to witness."
past summer, we hosted a sound
individuals an opportunity to
bath session and class on divine
“We strive to show the world that disabled people are boundless. There is no limit to what we can achieve, especially with our community behind us."
feminine energy.
RE welcomes women of all ages
Seminar style classes are also held
Website: rollettesdance.com
and disabilities from around
at RE. We try to highlight different
IG: @rollettes_la
the world. What do you believe
topics of conversation every year.
Tiktok: @rollettes_la
makes this event so inclusive?
We also have a lineup of Kids and
Youtube: Rollettes Dance Team
"Living with a disability can
Teens classes every year, offering
be quite isolating at times.
dance, sports, art, and more!"
get a taste of what it’s like to be a Rollette part-time. Full-time members of Rollettes must be based in Southern California, so this program is a great way for us to get to know potential team members, and vice versa. We may be looking to grow our Lil Sis group soon, so if anyone is interested in joining keep an eye
Beyond health and fitness, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle is a focus at RE. We host a makeup seminar with disabled makeup artist Steph Aiello every year. Bri Scalesse, disability advocate and model, has flown into LA to host a Modeling and Posing class the last couple of years.
Photography/Interview: Provided by The Rollettes • Design: Holly Childs
on our social media!"
Dance is a significant part of the
Rollettes Experience gives
Rollettes Experience (RE). Could
other women and girls with
For someone considering attending
you elaborate on the dance classes
disabilities the opportunity to
RE for the first time, what would
and workshops offered during the
feel comfortable embracing
you want them to know?
event and how they contribute to
who they are. It’s a safe space.
"A lot of people may be hesitant to
building confidence and challenging
We strive to provide a level of
attend RE for the first time. Don’t
attendees in a positive way?
comfort to our attendees, but
be! Rollettes Experience can be
"Rollettes started with dance!
also push them to navigate
overwhelming at first. Surrounding
It’s the core and foundation of
their lives and think about
yourself with new people in a
everything we are, so we love
themselves in a different way
new place is sometimes a massive
hosting dance classes at Rollettes
than they have before. We’ve
undertaking, but you’ll feel at
Experience every summer! Chelsie
found that Rollettes Experience
home right away! Everyone takes
and Conner, Rollettes founder
is the perfect place for this to
away something different from RE.
and team captain, typically each
happen for so many people,
You seem to get exactly what you
teach a class. We also bring in
because you have the support
need in the moment!"
professional choreographers that
of your community behind you
we love working with throughout
every step of the way."
What message do you hope the Rollettes and RE convey to the world
the year to teach as well, offering hip-hop and contemporary styles
Beyond dance, what are some
about the abilities and potential of
of dance. There’s something
of the other elements that
people with disabilities?
powerful that happens during
make RE a unique experience?
"We strive to show the world that
the dance classes. You look
"Rollettes Experience is so
disabled people are boundless.
around and see other women
much more than dance!
There is no limit to what we can
connecting with their bodies on
We offer other health
achieve, especially with our
a level they maybe never have
and fitness classes and
community behind us."
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
63
64
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
She’s in her Eras era! Taylor
one as they race to find TikTok
Swift returned to touring in
live streams to hear the surprise
Some things
2023 after a five year gap
songs being played at venues
can’t be broken
since her Reputation Stadium
far away from them and track
down into numbers though.
Tour in 2018. During that gap,
what versions of her various eras
While on tour, Taylor has
Taylor released six albums
costumes she wears throughout
announced two of her re-
including the multi-record-
the night. It doesn’t matter if you’re
recording project releases
breaker concept album
in SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles with
(Speak Now (Taylor’s
Midnights. What else is there
Taylor flexing her music industry
Version) and 1989 (Taylor’s
to do with a discography that
muscles or on your couch at home,
Version)) and inspired so
big (10 albums!), but perform
screaming along to your favorite
much excitement from her
it all?
songs with your dog.
fans in the form of elaborate costumes referencing music
Taylor put the advent of this
From the first night of the tour,
videos, song lyrics, and
massive project best at one of
Taylor has been the loudest woman
Taylor’s previous eras. Oh,
her August 2023 shows in Los
each town has ever seen, even
and many many friendship
Angeles, California. “People
taking over local governments,
bracelets. Even celebrity
would come up to me and be
renaming major cities—Glendale,
attendees like Selena Gomez
like, ‘so you’ve put up like five
AZ (Swift City), Minneapolis, MN
and Flavor Flav have been
albums that you haven’t done
(Swiftie-apolis), and Santa Clara, CA
excited to make and share
tours for… what are you going
(Swiftie Clara)—and becoming the
bracelets with fans from the
to do? Are you just gonna do
honorary mayor of Tampa, Florida.
VIP tent.
a show with all the albums
In Glendale, Taylor broke the record
in it and it’s gonna be like a
for the Most-Attended Concert by
The power of The Eras Tour
three-and-a-half hour long
a Female Artist in U.S. History with
is in Taylor’s connection with
show?’ And I was like… ‘yeah,
69,000 fans in attendance. She
her fans who are in it for
it’s gonna be called the Eras
has since seen 72,459 Swifties on
more than live music. Social
Tour, see you there!’"
average per show, according to
media feeds fill with pictures
QuestionPro data.
and screengrabs of Taylor’s
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
The Eras Tour has broken
best and silliest moments
world and venue records,
No one tours like Taylor who has
(lovingly called “The Errors
inspired costumes, sent
even been breaking her own
Tour”) alike. The Eras Tour
fans swarming to theaters,
records. The Reputation Stadium
is an expression of Taylor’s
and changed the ways that
Tour held the record for Highest
passion for her massive
people interact with music
Grossing US Tour in History which
catalog as much as it is an
and how fans interact with
is now held by The Eras Tour. Since
ongoing love letter to her
Taylor. For most concerts,
the 27-date tour announcement in
new and old fans who love
the enjoyment is being in
November 2022, the tour has been
decoding the tour visuals and
the room with their favorite
extended more than 10 times and
Taylor’s commentary, and of
singer, but for Swifties,
is set to round out at 151 stops in 17
course, cheering Taylor on.
every concert night is a big
different countries!
66
B
Design: Holly Childs • Photography/Quotes: Provided by Dancers
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
67
68
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
Photography: Alamy, Sofia Negron (Kitty Lunn), Provided by Featured (Jennifer Jones, Arthur Mitchell). • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
B
71
72
B
One of the universal truths of
Even with an unpredictable
dance is that it is adaptable. The
schedule, Luca prioritizes good
dancers that reach icon status
days. “For me to have a good day,
are not just the ones with the best
it’s important to start the morning
technique. They are the ones that
off right with good energy and
turn technique into a foundation
vibes. If I feel the energy in the
for unique styles and combinations
morning is off, I will put on some
that match their artistry and
good music and move around
ability. Luca “Lazylegs” Patuelli
to change my mood,” he told us.
was introduced to dance at age
It’s all about balancing work and
15. Adapting breaking to his
personal time each day, making
Arthrogryposis (a neuromuscular
sure not to overbook himself
disorder that affected the
(something he struggles with).
development of his legs), Luca found dance for himself and has
Doing the same thing every day
gone on to become a professional
is difficult when you have as
dancer, motivational speaker,
many projects as Luca. Booking,
educator, and founder of the
managing, and producing tours
dance crew ILL-Abilities.
and events for himself, ILL-
We caught up with Luca for an
students and local dancers has
inside look at a day in the life of
him traveling multiple times
a dancer who doesn’t believe in
a month. He also squeezes in
limits or giving up before you’ve
acting classes and auditions for
tried something.
projects. When he’s on tour, Luca said his schedule is even more
NO AVERAGE DAYS
unpredictable. “When I am on tour, I have to be honest, my routine is
Like many b-boys, Luca’s day is all
completely broken, and I go with
about going with the flow. Every
the flow of what my body is telling
morning he stretches to get out of
me and what the schedule of the
bed, makes breakfast and lunch
day ahead of me is.”
for his daughters, and gets some work in, messaging members
FINDING CHALLENGES
of his dance crew across the world. But that’s about as far as
Did you know that Luca’s hobby
his “routine” goes. “I don’t think I
was skating? Two seniors at his high
have an average day,” Luca said.
school introduced him to breaking
“Each day is completely different
when he was 15, but before that,
which is both exciting and
he adapted a different hobby to
terrifying because I have difficulty
his abilities. “I had created a unique
maintaining consistent routines.”
way of skateboarding on my knees, but after having a surgery
MINI WORKOUT:
Photography: Bernie BG (Left), Jacob Jonas (Side Bar), Jerick Collantes (Portrait) • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
Abilities, and working with his
When he has time in the morning, Luca does a quick workout of pushups, sit-ups, hip raises, and general stretches.
to help correct the angle of my legs, I could no longer skateboard anymore.” Around that time, he was introduced to breaking which his friends thought would be a perfect
Dance is limitless, and Luca sees that same limitless potential in everyone. Read on to learn about his motto and how he embodies it! “My motto is ‘No excuses. No limits.’ To me, life without limits is very similar [to] the idea about learning to do things your own way. Just because something is different, it doesn’t mean it’s wrong. The reality is every single one of us faces different challenges and ‘limitations’ in some form or another, but if we can take those challenges and limitations and learn to adapt, embrace, and confront them in our own way, then that’s when we will recognize there are no limits to what we can accomplish.”
B
73
match for his upper body strength.
to stages around the world, but
“I fell in love with it immediately.”
when he brings dance to others,
And he loved the challenge it posed.
it’s not always about doing the
“I loved the challenge of creating
most impressive thing—even
movements that are unique to each
though he has plenty of b-boy
individual person.”
tricks up his sleeves. When he is performing at a school, showing
The beginning of Luca’s b-boy
kids the value of nodding along
career was all about arms. “When I
to a song, doing a small turn, or
first started, I didn’t use my crutches,
striking a pose is as valuable as
I stayed on the floor and based most
finding dancers that can match
of my movements by lifting my legs
his moves.
up and spinning around in various ways with the strength of my arms,”
COMMUNITY AND FAMILY
he shared. “It was only after a year or so that I started incorporating
Luca likes to give himself new
my crutches, and I told myself
challenges, and he counts
whatever movements I do on the
Bart Simpson as one of his role
floor with my hands, I will try to
models, but his “values are based
replicate with my crutches and use
on community and family.”
my crutches as an extension of my
Sometimes those challenges
arms. After many falls, I learned to
are about furthering access and
balance and feel more comfortable
visibility in dance!
using my crutches in my dance.” Luca still tosses his crutches for
His latest projects include judging
some incredible moves but he has
Olympic qualifiers, planning
expanded his repertoire from his
events, and developing ILL-
early days.
Abilities next performances. In September 2023, he judged the
INFINITE POSSIBILITIES
world championships in Belgium where a dancer qualified to
Dance is a challenge, but it
compete in breaking in the
also has “infinite possibilities.”
2024 Olympics which will bring
Luca recognizes that there are
competitive dance to a new
things he can do in dance that
audience. He is also producing No
no one else can and vice versa.
Limits 2024, an integrated dance
“Don’t ever let your equipment
event that challenges dancers
or perceived limitation stop
without disabilities to change the
you from dancing because
way they dance with wheelchairs,
everyone can have the ability
crutches, blindfolds, and other
to create movement that is
props to raise awareness and
unique to you. Sometimes it’s
“empower dancers to learn to
the slightest movement that
move differently and remind
makes the greatest impact in
them if they ever get injured, their
a performance.”
career doesn’t’ need to end.” Oh, and ILL-Abilities has some exciting
Luca is a competitive dancer and
tour performances to keep an eye
performer who has made his way
out for this year.
B
75
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
77
Photography: Provided by Dancers • Design: Nikki Herr • Writing: Veronica Good • Photo Editing: Christin Sandidge, Tyler Amaral
78
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
79
80
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
81
84
B WWW.GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM
Photography: Provided by Dancers • Design: Nikki Herr • Writing: Veronica Good • Photo Editing: Christin Sandidge, Tyler Amaral
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
87
88
B
Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good
When you think of icons of the dance world, who comes to mind? If Misty Copeland is among the dancers pirouetting through your head, we wouldn’t be surprised. A dancer, a boundary breaker, and a role model, Misty takes the expectations of dance beyond lifestyle or passion or career. ONE STEP AT A TIME Having experienced a variety of limits in life and her career, Misty is a problem solver who doesn’t let adversity get in the way of her goals. “Solving problems is such a big part of life,” Misty told us, “and every day we have to do this in big and small ways. I approach everything one step at a time. Here is my goal, then work backwards to find solutions to reach that goal.” Misty grew up in San Pedro, California where she faced housing insecurity and financial instability from a young age. Finding dance as a teenager is part of how Misty found an outlet for expressing herself. Last year, in an interview with the Los Angeles Times exploring her work in the dance community, Misty described ballet as “an environment where I felt seen and heard.” It was this journey that transformed her from the shy 13-year-old girl with the nickname “Mouse” to the dancer who dedicates her time and art to helping others find space to express themselves today. While she is best known for becoming American Ballet Theatre’s (ABT) first African American female principal dancer, Misty has accumulated a lot of titles since taking that coveted role in 2015, including writer and executive producer. In all of her projects, she hopes to inspire others to see that big things are possible whether she’s sharing her journey to the lead role in Firebird in a children’s book or playing a part in the magic of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms. "Freedom of expression defines my art," Misty said. "My desire to bring dance to more communities that wouldn’t otherwise have access to dance and music keeps me inspired and motivated in my work and creative space."
LEADING AND GIVING BACK
some of the most valuable lessons
wants to see those students included,
she learned under Raven’s care
and wants to create the programs
For Misty, overcoming limits is all
and expertise. “Raven led me to see
and conversations that will allow
about community. Role models and
and understand that my career is
that to happen.
teachers that believe in you, like
connected to so many in the past
Misty found in icons like her mentor
and future of ballet,” Misty said of
This conversation is part of the drive
Raven Wilkinson, and the people
the importance of her relationship
behind another of Misty’s recent
you see succeeding at your goals,
with Raven and of having a mentor
projects, the documentary Lift, for
like all of the dancers that look up to
like her. “The career and life lessons
which Misty served as Executive
Misty today, can be your inspiration
I learned from her are so invaluable
Producer and Principal Advisor.
to set big goals. “Being a role model
that I thought it would be amazing
“[Artistic Director of New York
to share—as well as her story
Theatre Ballet] Steven Melendez
understanding, and recognizing that
needing to be told again and again.
and I have a lot in common and
you are a part of something bigger
Her mentorship has shown me how
share goals for what we see for the
than yourself.” Misty’s success is not
important it is for me to lead and
future of ballet. When he told me
just her success. It’s success for the
give back.”
about this project, I felt like it was
to me means being empathetic,
dancers that follow in her footsteps
my story, his story, and so many
and continue to break boundaries
In 2021, Misty founded The
others,” she said of the project. “I
and accomplish new things in art
Misty Copeland Foundation with
grew up with housing insecurity
the mission to bring ballet to
for the majority of my childhood
and dance after her.
underserved communities and
and was introduced to ballet
Author of six books, including
increase diversity in dance. As
through a community program.
two children’s books and her own
someone proud of overcoming
It saved my life. To be able to
memoir, in 2022 Misty released
“being told again and again that I
highlight how dance is more than
The Wind at My Back: Resilience,
wasn’t right for ballet,” Misty sees the
a technique or an art but can
Grace, and Other Gifts from My
ways that afterschool programs can
serve as a means, tools to be more
Mentor, Raven Wilkinson. In this
leave students, especially people of
than your circumstances, to bring
memoir of her relationship with
color, out due to a variety of reasons
light and beauty to one’s life, to
the late ballerina, Misty shares
from money to transportation. She
give you life skills.”
Misty Copeland’s new production company Life in Motion released its first short film, Flower, in September 2023. The 28-minute film follows three unhoused dancers in an RV encampment in West Oakland, California and aims to show people the realities of housing and food insecurity through dance. “Flower is a bridge for all things I’ve worked for throughout my career and have come together in this film. It brings access to ballet and dance on the screen and tells a relevant story of today that resonates with so many Americans. Getting it to the masses in an affordable way, wetting their appetite so that there is interest to then come to a theater and support the art form but also showing that the stories we tell through this art can be relatable, can represent you and your community. This, to me, is the future of ballet.”
B
91
92
B
Through projects like The Misty Copeland Foundation, Misty works to actively generate community support in creative spaces. She shared that the projects help others live without limits because they “provide access, opportunity, support, investment, encouragement, fun, and love!" For Misty, the only boundary that she sees as a real roadblock is injury. “Otherwise anything is possible.” LIMITLESS MISTY We love to see dancers chase their dreams and meet incredible career goals or accomplish unimaginable feats on stage. Misty Copeland has done those things many times, from dancing en pointe within three months of her first dance class to breaking the color barrier in one of the most prestigious companies in the world, but Misty has never made it her mission to only overcome her own limits. She wants to highlight the things that stand in the way of others and help break them for anyone that follows her whether they dance to achieve big things or simply to express themselves for a moment.
94
B
Photography/Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Kennedy Paige/Holly Childs
1
Showstopper events feature 100,000 of these handpicked elements
3
After Arielle Elonys’ accident, she discovered the sense that “________ is possible”
5
Isabella Esler plays Lydia in this Broadway production
7
Jaidyn Triplett’s single that embodies a confident alter-ego
8
The first Black dancer to join the New York City Ballet
16
Sam Shapiro’s mantra is made up of love, gratitude, strength, and this
17
Kayla DiVenere’s new single was inspired by her blurting out: “I want to date ______”
The name of Taylor Swift’s tour, which sold 2.4 million tickets in one day
19
Rikki Valentina’s song and dance (choreographed by Anna Sophia Moad)
15
Members of the LA Rollettes' community are called this
23 Brooke Maroon moved to California from this state
18
Sydney Alie dances on the ship _______ of The Seas
2
The first dancer to win gold for breaking in the Olympics
4
Sammy Rae & The Friends’ music is “for _________”
6
Judine Somerville followed her Broadway dreams while living in this NYC borough
9
Film in which Ashlei Foushee plays a 911 operator
10
The first short film produced by Misty Copeland’s production company, Life in Motion
11
Evan Ruggiero’s favorite dance genre
12
Diego Pasillas' first gig was dancing for this artist
13
Michelle Rasul is the youngest professional __
14
20 Anya Nichols is inspired by her mother, who was a professional ______ 21
ILL-Abilities believes in the mantra “No excuses. No ______”
22
Nicole Burdett’s nickname
24
The name of Triple Charm’s new single
25
Misty Copeland’s mentor
Use articles in this magazine to find answers
@GOSHOWSTOPPER
B
95
Aquarius
PISCES
ARIES
(1/20-2/18)
(2/19-3/20)
(3/21-4/19)
Unleash your inner innovator, Aquarius! Spring is pushing you to create new opportunities that lead to positive change! But remember, even superheroes have sidekicks. Form your league of do-gooders, and let the collective power shine brighter than a Marvel movie. Your imagination is the only limit.
Hey, Pisces, trust those instincts of yours—they're spot-on! You’ve been taking some time for self-reflection and manifestation, but don’t get stuck in those daydreams for too long. There’s a whole world out there waiting for you! The first step is always the hardest, but it’s definitely worthwhile.
Charge into the season, Aries! Your fiery energy is a force to be reckoned with, pushing you toward new and exciting challenges. This is also a prime time to showcase your leadership skills and show how it’s done. So don’t hide those successes. Seize the spotlight with confidence. Others are waiting to see you shine!
LEO
VIRGO
LIBRA
(7/23-8/22)
(8/23-9/22)
(9/23-10/22)
Leo, you've been rocking the stage for quite a while, but the universe is nudging you to switch things up! This season, take a bold leap into uncharted territory. Trust your vibrant energy to light up whatever path you choose, and don't be afraid to dazzle in areas beyond your usual spotlight.
Drop the pro-con lists, Virgo! An opportunity is heading your way that you won’t be able to analyze before you jump in. You can be prone to overthinking every new move, but this spring, you’ll need to trust your gut, think on your feet, and embrace the unknown.
You’re used to being the peacemaker, Libra, and your friends are lucky to have you! But conflict can be overwhelming, so don’t feel like you always have to mediate. It’s okay to step back and let things unfold how they’re supposed to. Focus on yourself, and the right people will stick around!
CELEB BIRTHDAYS Reneé Rapp January 10
Halle Bailey March 27
Mckenna Grace June 25
Jacob Elordi June 26
Brie Larson October 1
TAURUS
GEMINI
CANCER
(4/20-5/20)
(5/21-6/20)
(6/21-7/22)
Taurus, it's time to balance your grounded nature with more creativity. Your practicality is a strength, but don't shy away from exploring uncharted territories. Channel your determination into creative pursuits, whether it's trying a new dance style or choreographing a combo. Embrace the unexpected and break free from routine.
Gemini, embrace the winds of change and let your curiosity guide you this spring. Your adaptable and quickthinking nature is your key to navigating the exciting twists and turns ahead. Dive into fresh experiences, from new social connections to adventurous opportunities.
Get ready to ditch that shell, Cancer! This spring is all about opening up, and as you do, your empathetic heart will shine even brighter. Being vulnerable with others can be a challenge, but it’s nothing you can’t handle. So gear up for a season of growth and connection. It's time to show the world your authentic self!
SCORPIO
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
(10/23-11/21)
(11/22-12/21)
(12/22-1/19)
Slow and steady wins the race, Scorpio. Your passion can sometimes lead to a lack of patience, but the universe is working even when you’re not. Allow yourself to take a break for some self-reflection this spring. Your newfound clarity will mean the moves you do make are in the right direction.
The fog is lifting, Sag. The next step on your path will soon become clear, and you’ll be grateful for where the uncertainty has led you. Just keep moving forward and trust that the universe always has your back. Sometimes, the best adventures are ones you don’t expect!
Hey Capricorn, get ready to conquer this season and turn your goals into reality. No challenge is too big for your hard-working spirit! Stay patient and trust your instincts, making smart moves that lead to major wins. Whether it's crushing it in your studies or shining in social circles, you’re about to level up!
B
3