Showstopper Magazine - 9th Edition

A Letter from Showstopper's Founder

What I’ve come to love over all these years are the moments I’ve spent getting to know generations of dancers, many who have inspired me in ways I could have never imagined. I have listened to them share their journeys, dreams, how they conquer challenges, and how they achieve the most remarkable goals!

Things were very different growing up in the '60s. I would have never believed in 1960 that technology could have come this far and offer so many incredible opportunities! With all of the advances in technology, merely opening a laptop or using a smartphone gives access to resources I could only have dreamed of. It’s opened up a whole new world of endless resources right at our fingertips.

This incredible generation has learned how to navigate these resources to enhance their education in everything including dance, art, music, sports, and academics. They’ve developed supportive relationships with other young people around the world who share similar interests. Things that in the past were complicated are now simplified. No matter where they are in the world, a dancer can use technology to access the most incredible teachers, choreographers, and artists to learn from, an opportunity that may not always be possible to have in person. How amazing!

This generation of dancers are smart, courageous, determined, and so creative. I am humbled by their kindness and strength and love every opportunity I have been given to witness their accomplishments.

TABLE OF

Contents

SPRING 2021 GOSHOWSTOPPER.COM/MAGAZINE

LIFESTYLE

16

42

Daily Dose of Happiness Get the Look

52

Live Colorfully

58

Journey to Crystal

76

Think Outside the Box

96

Showstopper: The Dance Event of the Year

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IN EVERY ISSUE

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32 40 44 50 62 72 74

Kelsey Lynn Cook Kheris Rogers Heaven King Hannah Grace Colin Destiny Wimpye Sarah Georgiana Kayla Mak

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8

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Editor's Letter Road to Showstopper Showstopper Magazine Online Interior Design: Happy Camper

92 Embarrassing Moments Crossword 93 Horoscopes 94

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M L A few of my favorite Instas from this season!

Tag us @goshowstopper for a chance to be featured.

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FOUNDERS

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Debbie & Dave Roberts EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Holly Childs

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CREATIVE CONSULTANT: Debbie Roberts • HEAD DESIGNER: Holly Childs • FASHION DIRECTOR: Angel Roberts • ASSOCIATE FASHION STYLISTS: Georgia VanNewkirk, Hazel VanNewkirk, Addie Ware • LEAD EDITORS: Leslie Childs, Nikki Cole • GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Nikki Cole, Tyler Amaral • DESIGN/COPY EDITORS: Debbie Roberts, Nikki Cole, Veronica Good, Abbey Macho, Angel Roberts, Georgia VanNewkirk, Hazel VanNewkirk, Tyler Amaral, Earl Tyndall • PHOTOGRAPHERS: Ana Ochoa, Eva Nys, Lee Gumbs, Holly Childs, Fernando Acha, Jerimiah Bias, Lenore Brown, Maiya Buck, Christina Choi, Melissa Coulier, Michael Creagh, Frank Del Moral, Jennifer Haidle, Kara Lewis, Lilly K, Vanessa Lopez, Jordan Matter, Corrie Mattson, Lena Melnik, Collette Mruk, Keith Munyan, Rachel Neville, Drea Nicole, Harry Toohey, Sarvey Trector, Marco Trinidad, Carlos Villagomez, Patience Wassell, Ryan West WRITERS: Holly Childs, Hayley Mac Cooper, Veronica Good DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT/LOCATIONS: Adam Roberts

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Photography: Holly Childs (left page), Via Instagram (top right), Ana Ochoa (bottom right) • Writing/Design: Holly Childs

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SHOWSTOPPER, INC.

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NATIONAL DIRECTOR: Debbie Roberts

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PRESIDENT: Dave Roberts

CORPORATE

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 • GRAPHICS AND MEDIA PRODUCTION SPECIALIST: Tyler Amaral MANAGING EDITOR OF SHOWSTOPPER MAGAZINE ONLINE: Veronica Good • EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS: Eleanor Cooper, Alysia Tucker

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EVENT PRODUCTION

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DIRECTOR OF EVENT OPERATIONS: Laura Button • TRAVEL DIRECTOR AND EVENT COORDINATOR: Patience Wassell ASSOCIATE SHOW DIRECTOR: Bailey Rivera • TECHNICAL DIRECTORS: Jon Green, Jason Hunsucker, Jeff Cole, Jamie Holiday • ASSOCIATE TECHNICAL DIRECTORS: Mike Wager, Kyle Intrabartolo • DIRECTOR OF LOGISTICS: James Williams • SPECIAL PROJECTS: Zohar Molina, Greg Kajcienski

SPECIAL THANKS (IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE): Charli D'Amelio, Kambry Swaim, Kinsley Swaim, Sara Kate Carr, Connor Finnerty, Sofie Dossi, Sharlize True, Sean Lew, Nadia Turner, Ruby Rose Turner, Anna McNulty, Mirabelle Lee, Anais Lee, Kelsey Lynn Cook, Sky Katz, Kayla Mak, Heaven King, Esty, Nicole Fiore, Zelina Roxas, Hannah Grace Colin, Kida Burns, Destiny Wimpye, Caitlin Carmichael, Sophie Michelle, Aubrey Miller, Jillian Shea Spaeder, Siena Agudong, Shiloh Nelson, Sascha Nastasi, Sky Brown, Alysa Gutierrez-Sierra, Sarah Georgiana, Kayla Mak, Icesiis Magana, Maely Swaim, Pottery Barn, Liza Koshy

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@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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Photography: Patience Wassell, Lee Gumbs, Lenore Brown, Harry Toohey • Design: Holly Childs, Nikki Cole

Photography: Provided by Dancers • Design: Nikki Cole, Tyler Amaral • Writing: Veronica Good, Provided by Dancers

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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Photography: Ana Ochoa, Shiloh Nelson • Writing/Design: Holly Childs

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Photography: Melissa Coulier • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Nadia & Ruby Rose Turner • Stylist: Erin Noel • Hair Stylist: Sol Rodriguez • Makeup Artist: Monica Alverez • Assistant: Melanie Samuels

M

eet the incredibly

Nadia: ...And I would spend a little

playing a role through your

impressive sibling duo:

more time in technique classes

movement, so acting evolved

Nadia and Ruby Rose

and ballet.

through dance for both of us.

the girls are almost inseparable,

What's been your favorite

N adia, you played Jenna on Brat

except, of course, when they're

performance?

TV's Total Eclipse.

Eclipse. Can you tell us

working on their many individual

Ruby: My favorite performance

a little bit about your character?

passions. We sat down with the

was getting the opportunity to

N adia: Jenna is a very career-

Turner sisters to get an exclusive

dance on stage with

oriented, driven, and intelligent

interview on their love of dance,

Justin Bieber during

person. She's not

acting, singing, and how the

his Purpose Tour

afraid to say

pandemic has shifted things for

in San Diego!

what's on her

them in the past year.

N adia: I always loved

mind. She

Turner. Just one year apart in age,

performing at THEIR DANCE BACKGROUND

Nationals with our competition

You both are well-trained in

teams. Those

dance. Can you tell us how you

were really

each got started?

fun times!

Ruby: Our mom was a trained dancer, and she knew we would

You did dance

love it too, so she started us in

competitions

ballet classes when we were

regularly. What

around four or five years old.

did you like the

Nadia: Along with our mom

most about

being a dancer, I always loved

competing?

how elegant dancers are. I

Both: We actually

would always watch ballet

competed at

documentaries as a little girl and

Showstopper!

just dream of being able to

We competed

move like them one day.

and trained on a pretty intense

W hat type of classes did each

schedule for four

of you take?

years. Our favorite

Both: We've trained in a lot of

parts about competing

different styles of dance like

were that feeling

ballet, lyrical, contemporary,

you get right before

jazz, and hip hop.

walking on stage and watching all

D id you dance together since

of the other studios.

you're just one year apart?

Nadia: Yes, we danced together

ON ACTING

a lot!

Ruby: The only times we didn't

H ow did you

dance together were when we

start acting?

would do more of what each of

Both: I think

us loved independently. I would

as dancers,

do more hip hop classes …

you're acting,

cares deeply about her

When I found out about

friends and really wants to

Jenna's superhero storyline,

see them succeed.

I was so excited, and seeing the costume for the first

D o you relate to your

time in wardrobe was just

character Jenna?

so amazing. I couldn't wait

N adia: We are very alike in

to start filming.

how much we both have a love for fashion. Jenna and I

I f you could star on any TV

also care very deeply about

show, which would it be?

our friends. One day, I hope

N adia: One of my favorite

to go to a fashion school to

shows is Pretty Little Liars,

learn more about the fashion

and I think it would have

industry, and Jenna is also

been so cool to be a part of

very interested in learning

that cast and filming process.

more about her passion for fashion. Jenna says what's

Ruby, you play Cami on

on her mind, though, even if

Coop & Cami Ask the

it's not the right time, where I

World. What was your

(try to) think before I speak.

audition like?

Ruby: The audition process

D o you have a favorite

for Coop & Cami was

memory from on-set?

definitely one of the longest

N adia: Filming a show with a

audition processes I've ever

bunch of your friends is so much fun, but I would say that my favorite memory is seeing Jenna's superhero costume for the first time.

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done. I auditioned eight or nine times over two months in the summer of 2017.

I went in for a screen test on my

THEIR OTHER INTERESTS

twelth birthday, and that's pretty much around the time I found out

You're also quite the musical

I'd booked the show! I learned so

talent! When did you become

much through that whole process.

interested in singing?

Ruby: I've always loved to

A ny audition advice for others?

Ruby: What I always remind myself of is that casting is on your side. They want you to do well, so just go in there and perform for them; do what you do best, and if you're right for the role, you'll book it. If not, you'll get the experience and apply it to the next!

How do you relate to your character Cami?

Ruby: Cami has a boss-like strength and assertive quality that I strive to have. She's always got a plan, and I love that about her, but I think Cami is a little more upfront than I am.

W hat's been your favorite scene to film so far?

Ruby: I always loved getting messy!

Those scenes were the best! I love physical comedy too; those scenes were always fun. My favorite was probably the episode when Cami turned thirteen, and I got to sing an Ariana Grande song with Dakota [Lotus] and Olivia [Sanabia].

You also played Phyllis Gladstone on Netflix's Fuller House.

House. Can you tell us about that audition?

Ruby: That audition process was fun. The casting directors were so kind to me, and they had actually just seen me in a showcase I'd done at The Groundlings Theatre, so I remember talking to them about that, and I was so surprised they remembered me. I was nine at the time and still pretty new to acting.

sing, but I'd never done it

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professionally, because my focus

three years, so the abrupt shift

was on dancing and acting. But

and time home with my family has

once Disney knew I could sing,

been much needed. With that

they created so many opportunities

being said, I'm a creative, and I

for me, and I am forever grateful!

thrive from being creatively active and around people, so it has had

W here do you both typically get

its challenges. Still, it hasn't

your inspiration from?

stopped me from working on my

Ruby: My dad has always played

vocals regularly with my amazing

lots of different music in our house

vocal coach, Amy Chapman. I also

growing up, so I get inspired by

try to learn how to play a new

that. My mom is really creative,

song on the piano every few

too, so we talk a lot about different

weeks. You just have to keep

things and ideas. I also get inspired

pushing forward.

by people who have gone through

N adia: Everyone is always at

tough times but still push through.

home now; it's really nice coming

N adia: I definitely get a lot of my

downstairs in the morning and

inspiration online through social

seeing my whole family. Before

media. I see so many things that I

the pandemic, with everyone's

get inspired by; whether it's my

busy schedules (school and my

peers, designers, or a new artist I

sister's filming schedule), I would

come across, I combine inspiration

wake up to an empty house most

from all of them.

of the time. But now, everyone is home, and I love it! These times are

W hat hobbies do you each have

challenging for so many, but I try

outside of dance/acting?

to focus on the positive outcomes

Ruby: I've really been focusing on

that this pandemic has brought.

singing and playing the piano this

For me, those are discovering new

past year. This question is always

hobbies, spending time with my

hard for me because performing is

family, and focusing on what we

my hobby; it's what I love to do all

are lucky to have.

the time. And go to the beach!

N adia: I absolutely love crafts, like a

So, what's next this year?

fun day out for me would be going

Ruby: I’m getting really good at

to a craft store. I love making

filming from home! I’ve filmed

jewelry. Most of the earrings and

several specials with Disney

necklaces that I wear I've made

Channel over the past few months;

myself from pieces I've collected.

they’ve been a lot of fun. I can’t

It's just cool knowing you're wearing

wait to share my next project I’m

something you made yourself. I also

working on. I’m learning so much

have a love for crystals; I love how

from it. It came at a time I really

healing they are.

needed the creative push and I

H ow have things shifted for you

N adia: In the next few years I see

this past year?

myself learning more about the

Ruby: The pandemic for me came

fashion industry, spending time

at a time when I'd been working

with my friends, focusing on me,

and traveling a lot the past two or

and just being happy!

think people will really love it!

RUBY: The beach!

NADIA: My room. It’s where I feel safe and happy.

What things make you the most happy?

BOTH: Our family, our best friends, and our pets.

What adds to your daily joy?

RUBY: Music and exercise.

NADIA: ​Comforting movies, music, and food!

What made you happy this year?

RUBY: Vocal lessons and going for walks on the beach.

NADIA: Spending quality time with the people closest to me.

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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I

f you've ever found

that, as a flyer, she

yourself on flexibility

needed to be. "I have

TikTok or watching

always been a flyer,"

stretching videos on

she told us, "and

YouTube, chances are

because of that, I had

you've come across

to learn different body

18-year-old Canadian

positions to do in the air.

content creator and

I started consistently

self-taught contortionist,

stretching, but I was not

Anna McNulty. From

flexible whatsoever. To

hand-balancing, to

be honest, when I first

needles, to oversplits

started everything—

and leaps, Anna does

contortion, cheer, and

it all and makes it look

dance—I was pretty bad

effortless (though we

at it and envied others

know it hasn't come

who were better than

without hard work!).

me. Even though that's

We caught up with her

not the best mindset to

to get an exclusive look

have, I feel like that's

at where her passion

what really pushed me

started, her favorite

to improve and get to

experiences throughout

where I am today!"

the process, any advice she could give to others,

So how did she learn?

and where she'd like to

She taught herself! "At

be in the future.

the time, I had also just joined Instagram," she

CHEER, CONTORTION,

told us, "and I loved

& COMPARISON

following flexibility accounts featuring

It might be hard to

different contortionists,

believe, but Anna

gymnasts, and dancers.

wasn't always so

Unknowingly, following

flexible. After starting

these accounts got me

cheerleading at ten

started in contortion. I

years old, she realized

began to teach myself

the poses and tricks

on their journeys. "A

that were in the photos,

huge goal of mine is

and it wasn't until I

to reach two million

started to stretch that I

YouTube subscribers,"

was able to achieve the

she told us, "because I

amount of flexibility I

want to help as many

have now."

people reach their flexibility goals

Her ability to teach and

as possible!"

Photography: Anna McNulty • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Anna McNulty

train herself has led to her passion for helping

Despite her

others do the same.

dedication

"To date, my contortion

and hard

skills have all been self-

work, she

taught," she explained,

has still had

"which is why I love to

to face some

make tutorials so others

difficulties on

can teach themselves

her journey,

at home too. Now with

including an

platforms like TikTok

injury that kept her

and Instagram, I can

from doing what

share them with even

she loved. "Very few

more people!" Anna

people know this, but

hopes to grow her

a few years back, I

social media audience

had a knee problem

even more to help

that made me unable

influence more teens

to do even simple

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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are trying to achieve more flexibility, Anna has some advice for you: "Be patient with yourself and know that flexibility does not come overnight!

If you're passionate about something and consistently work at it, you'll be successful! I also have several follow-along stretching routines on my YouTube channel that, if done consistently, will help to improve your flexibility."

Flexibility is a longstanding contortion/

favorite experiences

flexibility poses," she

have been collaborating

shared. "This was very

with Jordan Matter and

hard for me to get

some other amazing

through, especially

photographers," she

While Anna herself

every day to improve

because at the time,

told us. "I've also loved

admits that she once felt

and maintain her

I was just starting to

working with brands like

the need to compare

flexibility. If you're not

gain a social media

Gymshark, designing

herself to others, it's

able to get a move or

following mainly for

my own necklace/

something she's been

pose right away, though,

sharing flexible content.

activewear, and being

able to work through to

don't give up! "Dance,

However, by taking

able to meet some of my

achieve a better mindset.

cheer, and contortion

time to rest and get

social media followers

"I've now realized it's

have all taught me that

professional help, I was

in person through cheer

impossible to be 'the

if you try something

able to overcome the

competitions, meet

best' at everything,"

for the first time and

injury and get back to

and greets, and other

she explained, "so now,

are not good at it, that

doing what I love!"

events!" While there

instead of envying others

does not mean you

are quite a few people

who can do something

should stop trying," she

she'd love to collaborate

better than I can, I like

told us. "The first time is

with, there are two in

to take it as inspiration

usually the worst time,

Anna's loyal audience

particular that she really

and make it a goal that

so just keep practicing,

has led to her getting to

hopes to work with."Right

I can work towards!" An

and eventually you can

collaborate with some

now, my top picks would

inspiring mindset to have

be great at what you

amazing photographers,

be Charli D'Amelio and

and one we should all try

thought you were 'bad'

brands, and people. "My

Sofie Dossi," she told us.

to adopt. For others who

at!" When something

WORKING WITH OTHERS

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game, though, and one you have to work at ADVICE FOR YOU

regularly. Even Anna continues to stretch

feels difficult, it's usually

creators who live in

because it's making

other parts of the world

you better. Anna lets

that I would not have

this concept drive her

had the opportunity to

forward, and she lives by

connect with otherwise."

the quote: "If it doesn't

This time to reflect has

challenge you, it won't

also made her realize

change you."

that she'd like to see other parts of the world

HAPPINESS &

herself! "I've always

THE FUTURE

been someone who loves to be in big cities,

Anna has big goals for

so it is my dream to

her future, and with all

be able to live in that

that she's been able to

environment and also

accomplish so far, we

meet new people," she

have no doubt she'll

told us. "In the future, I

achieve them! Like many

would love to live part-

others, this past year

time in Los Angeles and/

has given Anna some

or New York. I love New

clarity on what brings

York! For some reason,

her joy and what she

I always feel so fulfilled

hopes to achieve in the

whenever I travel there."

future. "I've been lucky to spend more time with

Anna is also working on

my family, graduate

releasing her "merch"

high school, follow my

project (though she

dreams, and dedicate

couldn't share too

more time to my social

many details) so keep

media channels and

your eyes on her social

content. I've collaborated

channels to be the first

virtually with content

to see it when it's done!

M

irabelle and Anais aren't

You trained with Debbie Allen.

ballerina Sarah Du-Feu who

just identical in their

What was the most important

danced with the English National

looks, they also share

thing you learned from her?

Ballet. She lives in London, but we

many of the same passions and

Both: Training with Debbie Allen

train with her through Zoom, and

goals. Starting ballet at just two

for her productions were amazing

she is amazing! We have learned

years old, they discovered their

experiences we will never forget.

so much from her!

love of performing early on. Now,

We definitely learned a lot from

they act, model, and dance. Lucky

her and learned the value of

for us, they slowed down long

working extremely hard

So, how did you

enough to give us an exclusive

and being focused.

girls first get started in acting?

interview! If you want to see even more of the Lee Twins, you can

You've started taking Zoom dance

Both: We first

watch Anais play Jessi Ramsey

classes. What's that been like?

started as models

on Netflix's The Baby-Sitters Club

Both: It was tough being away

when we were

and Mirabelle as Moriah in her

from dance, but zoom

three. After a

upcoming film, Slapface.

classes have been really

couple of years

fun! We have been You both love to dance. When did you become interested in it?

Both: As soon as we were old enough to run, our mom put us into dance. She was also a ballerina! We have always been super energetic kids, so naturally we loved dancing.

training with

of modeling, our agent sent us

out on an audition for the movie

said the first scene we filmed was

I had a director's session through

Blood Ties. At the time, we had

in a living room with Mila Kunis,

Skype, so we rushed home, and

only acted in commercials, so we

Zoe Saldana, James Caan, Clive

I prepared my lines again. I was

were super nervous. But to our

Owen, and Billy Crudup! Can you

super nervous! After the Skype

surprise, we ended up being cast

imagine? That was an amazing

call, we waited around for a day

in the role! We jointly played the

way to start acting! We learned

being super anxious. We finally

role of Janie, and our parents

so much working on that film, and

received a call that said I was

it definitely was an experience

one of the top picks for the role! I

we will remember forever. After

spent the entire day at school so

filming, we knew that we wanted

nervous. When I got home from

to act for the rest of our lives.

school, my mom called me from

Our dream is to star in a show

her office at work and told me

together! We love working with

that I got the role! I was so excited

each other, and we can't wait to

that I ran around screaming and

do it again!

jumping up and down.

Anais, you play Jessi in The Baby-

H ow do you relate to your

Sitters Club.

Club. Can you tell us about

character Jessi?

the audition process for that role?

Anais: We are both ballet dancers

Anais: My manager sent me a self-

who are focused on mastering

tape request for this role. I filmed

this skill! I've been doing ballet

the audition and a ballet routine and then sent my tape to the casting directors. After the audition, my agent said that

since I was two years old, so when I received this audition, I knew this role was perfect for me. I'm so thankful to play a role that combines acting and dancing!

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Photography: Christina Choi, Sarvey Trector, Lena Melnik • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Anais & Mirabelle Lee • Wardrobe: TO Collection, Ustabelle Bebe Girls • Hair & Makeup: Martin Lane Christopher

This role is my favorite one that I

I found out I got the role at a photo

have done so far, and I am forever

shoot, and I was screaming so

grateful to have been blessed

loud! We later celebrated at my

with such an amazing role and to

favorite restaurant.

have been able to meet so many amazing people along the way.

Can you tell us about the film?

Mirabelle: Slapface is about a boy

You also played Young Natasha in

Lucas (August Maturo), who forms

The Sun is Also a Star. Can you tell

a dangerous relationship with a

us about that experience?

monster in the nearby forest after

Anais: My parents told me I had

his mother's passing. This is my first

an audition for a movie, and the

time acting in the horror genre,

role called for someone to play the

and it was so much fun. It has

younger version of Yara Shahidi.

been my dream to be in a horror

I was so excited because everyone

film, so I was ecstatic when I got

told me how I looked a lot like

the role. Usually, the horror films I

her, so I worked very hard on the

see have the typical jump scares

audition. I did research and found

but in Slapface, alongside the

out the movie is a book, too! I read

jump scares, you'll find a level of

the book, and it gave me a lot of

internal fear throughout the movie

knowledge about my character,

which I think makes it different

which helped a lot with my audition.

from other films. This movie will also teach you that even though

What was it like working with

someone may seem alright, you

Yara Shahidi?

never know what they are going

Anais: It was so cool! Mirabelle and

through. I think this message is

I are huge fans of Black-ish and

really essential to hear right now.

Grown-ish, so when I first met her, it was surreal! She is so nice and

This is our happiness issue, so

kind and amazing to work with.

what people make you happy?

Both: We are always happy when

M irabelle, you play Moriah in the

talking to our best friends who

upcoming film Slapface Slapface.. What

know how to make us laugh. Our

was the audition like?

dog, Emerald, makes us smile!

Mirabelle: The audition process

We've also recently gotten into

was actually really short, but it

meditating, and we have found

felt like we were waiting forever.

that it brings more peace and

LOL! After my first audition, the

happiness into our lives!

producers emailed my agents to let me know that I was their top

What made you happy this year

selection for the role! My entire

despite the pandemic?

family was so happy because they

Both: We are so grateful for all of

knew I really wanted it, but before

our friends; they have really helped

they could give me an offer, they

us get through. We've also recently

had me do a FaceTime call with

picked up baking. We are always

my co-star August Maturo. We

baking new cookies, cakes, and

became instant friends and, a

pastries. Our parents definitely

few days later, I got an offer!

enjoy our weekly bakes!

F

.

rom music videos to

was super sad not to dance every

modeling campaigns to

day, I overcame it with hard work

major shows like Brat TV's

and physical therapy."

Chicken Girls, 17-year-old actress, dancer, and model Kelsey Lynn

Her tenacity carried over into this

Cook has done it all. While she

year, too, and she didn't let the

has many passions now, her first

pandemic keep her from dancing. "I

passion was, of course, dance!

still train the same amount as I used

"Dance has taught me to work

to," she explained. "I take online

hard, keep pushing, and never

classes, but if I'm not taking a class,

stop," Kelsey told us.

I'll still stretch and workout every day to keep my muscles moving!"

STARTING OUT CHICKEN GIRLS At just two years old, Kelsey's parents put her in a toddler tap

When Kelsey isn't dancing, she

and ballet class to see if she

plays Kimmie on Brat TV's Chicken

liked it. The verdict? "I loved it

Girls. In one episode, Kelsey got to

so much that I competed at age

bring her dance skills to her role.

six with my first solo. Fun fact: it

"It was so much fun getting to

was actually at Showstopper!"

dance on the show," she told us.

Woohoo! Among the company

"Getting to rehearse and film with

of Beyoncé and Britney Spears,

my friends was awesome! I was

Kelsey's one of many who

part of a rival dance team, known

started their dance careers on

as Powersurge, so it was a blast to

the Showstopper stage! Her

play that role as well as dance!"

proudest competition moment

Photography: Kara Lewis • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Kelsey Lynn Cook

so far? Choreographing the

FINDING HAPPINESS

solo she competed with at conventions and competitions.

Like many people this year, the pandemic helped Kelsey to

THE SHOW MUST GO ON

discover that her "happy place" was close to home. "Relaxing in my

While Kelsey has had many

comfy clothes is the best feeling

positive experiences in her dance

ever," she told us. "I also love

career, they haven't been without

trying new recipes and playing

struggles. One of the biggest

with my puppy, S'mores!" Sounds

challenges was an injury that left

cozy! When she wasn't curled up

Kelsey without dance for awhile.

at home with her pup, she was

"I broke my fifth metatarsal at

creating content. "I also loved

a trampoline park," she told

creating my IGTV series, The Ten,

us. "This was a time in my life

this year, where I asked my friends

that I was working really hard

ten questions. It put a smile on

and taking multiple classes and

my face to learn about so many

private lessons every week.

people in each episode. Still being

Unfortunately, I was out for a long

able to do things online and stay in

time with multiple casts, crutches,

touch with friends was absolutely

and walking boots. Although I

essential this year!"

S

. ky Katz is a New York City native and

Recently, Sky got to direct the

a 16-year-old rapper,

music video for her song "Fall

athlete, and actress best

Back," something that was a

known for her co-star role

ton of work, but she told us was

as Tess O'Malley on Disney

"so rewarding." "We decided to

take it more

Channel's Raven's Home. We

shoot the video with only a few

seriously.

sat down with her to get an

days' notice," she explained, "so

I've gotten

inside look at how she got

I worked with my manager to

to work with

started in music, her favorite

quickly secure a location, find

some amazing

part about her directorial

wardrobe, and get someone to

choreographers,

debut, how she scored a

shoot it." As for the theme of the

and actually, doing

role on Disney, her love of

video, she was inspired in a meta

TikTok dance videos has

basketball, and so much more.

way when she "had the idea of

helped me improve not only

making the video be about what

my dancing but picking up

it would look like to be behind the

choreography more easily."

FINDING HER INSPIRATION

scenes of making a music video," Growing up, Sky was exposed

an interesting take and one that

In filming "On the Block,"

to hip hop music at a young

definitely paid off. We love it when

Sky got to work with quite a

age. "My parents are from

a musical artist has a hand in the

few NYC-native dancers to

Queens, NY," she told us, "and

creation of their music videos since

create an entertaining and

they always played hip hop in

they are the ones who know the

very catchy music video

the house. Being the youngest

backstory of their songs the best.

that gave us an authentic

of four kids, I was influenced

"I always have images in my head

look at Brooklyn. "It was

not only by what my parents

of what my songs will look like

really amazing working on

would play but what my

visually once I finish recording," Sky

the choreography," Sky told

siblings would as well. They

told us," and I love to have creative

us. "All the dancers were

all loved hip hop, so I would

input in all of my work."

really outgoing and had

listen to it all the time and try to imitate what I heard." Hip

great personalities, which DANCING IN THE STREET

Photography: Fernando Acha, Michael Creagh, Carlos Villagomez • Writing/Design: Holly Childs Featured: Sky Katz

hop has had a heavy influence

made it a fun culture on set!

Plus, the dance itself was

on Sky's music, but it's not her

We sat down and watched

great to learn and do." Sky

only inspiration. "I listen to so

another one of Sky's music videos,

hopes to incorporate even

many genres of music," she

this time a dance-focused upbeat

more dance in future music

explained, "and I like to take a

hit titled "On the Block." With all

videos and said, "dance

little bit from everything. I also

of the choreography involved,

adds a positive vibe and

try to incorporate experiences

we had to get the inside scoop

a whole new feel to my

I have in my life into my

on what it was like to learn the

videos. It also attracts a

music." She's also inspired by

dance moves and film a video

whole new audience!"

other artists, with her all-time

that required such precision and

favorite being Nicki Minaj.

rhythm, especially since Sky

"She's a goddess," Sky said.

didn't have much of a dance

She'd also love to learn from

background beforehand. "I was

While it's clear that Sky is

another hip hop legend, Nas.

not really a dancer growing

talented, she proved it to the

"It would be amazing to be in

up," Sky admitted, "but being on

world when she competed

the studio with him and learn

Raven's Home and doing my music

on Season 11 of America's

from him!"

videos has pushed me to really

Got Talent.

SHE'S GOT TALENT

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

B 35

"It was an amazing

Lakers game, or starring as Tess

basketball and rapping, she

experience," Sky told us. "I

O'Malley on Disney Channel's

feels lucky that, unlike Tess,

actually created a demo tape

Raven's Home. With someone as

she has a "very strong and

and submitted it to AGT without

motivated and on-the-go as she

close family for support."

telling anyone in my family. One

is, we had to find out what she

day, my dad got a call from

did to score such a huge role on

one of the producers telling

the spin-off of the iconic That's So

him I had been selected, and he

Raven. "Since I was living in NY at

As for what's brought

thought it was one of his friends

the time, I had to submit a tape for

Sky joy this year, she's been

playing a prank on him!" As for

my first audition," she explained. "I

loving the time she's been

the experience, she described

actually was taking diction lessons

able to spend with her family.

it as "so empowering." "Here I

at the time to tone down my NY

"My family was home at the

was," she said, "an 11-year-old

accent, and when we first heard

same time, which is rare

kid, getting up on stage in front

back from casting, they loved the

since I am the youngest of

of thousands of people and

tape but asked if I could do a NY

four siblings. It was great

the judges, and I got such an

accent! They flew my mom and

to be in the same place all

amazing reaction!"

me out to read with

at once!" In the future, Sky

the rest of the cast.

hopes to continue doing the

It changed my

things she loves and hopes to

life overnight!"

put out an album and even

ON THE COURT & ON THE SET When Sky isn't creating music,

While Sky has

she's either playing point

many similarities

guard on three different travel

with Tess like

basketball teams, catching a

their love of

SKY'S THE LIMIT

go on tour in the future.

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

B 39

Photography: Collette Mruk • Writing: Veronica Good • Design: Holly Childs

M

eet Kheris Rogers: CEO of

Flexin' in my Complexion has

"Sometimes you don't realize the

her clothing line "Flexin' In

been noticed and represented

impact what you are doing has

My Complexion," singer

by many different celebrities,

on the world," Kheris explained. "It

in the girl group Run the World,

including Whoopi Goldberg,

feels so great to be considered an

actress on Brat TV's Chicken

Lupita Nyong'o, and Alicia Keys.

influential young person by such an

Girls, and model (the youngest

Kheris and her clothing line

incredible platform as Teen Vogue!"

designer to debut a collection at

were even featured on Beyonce.

New York Fashion Week!). If that

com! "Sometimes I have to pinch

isn't enough to impress, she even

myself," she told us. As for who

dances a lot for fun and told us,

she'd like to rep it next? None

When Kheris isn't too busy

"dancing is like freedom; you get

other than Rihanna, of course.

changing the world, she's busy

to let go and just feel the music!"

"It would be amazing to see

running it with the girl group Run

Rihanna Flexin'," Kheris shared.

the World! The group features

"She is such a dynamic influence,

other pop icons, Hayley LeBlanc,

world leader, and ambassador

Corinne Joy, and Jessalyn Grace.

for the culture!"

As for where the name came

Photography: Ana Ochoa • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Kheris Rogers • Wardrobe Stylist: Angel Roberts

FLEXIN' IN MY COMPLEXION After being bullied at school for her skin color, Kheris did what many other kids would do. She went to her family for advice.

Her grandmother gave her some words of wisdom that would forever change the course of Kheris' life. "My grandmother is from Louisiana and has a bunch of interesting sayings.

When I was getting bullied, she would always tell me to flex my complexion, which inspired the name of my brand, and that's how Flexin' in My Complexion was born." Her hopes? "To inspire

"

RUN THE WORLD

from? Kheris gave us the low-

You are

beautiful from your head to your toes. Be

proud

down. "Run the World really speaks to our personalities," she explained. "We're four beautiful influencers that came together to share our music with the world!"

Sometimes a group of strong, talented people together can create tension, but Kheris said that's not happening in this case.

of your skin; it was made just for you!

"

In fact, they're all incredibly close.

"We met through the forming of the group," she told us, "and I can honestly say they've become my besties! We

others to be comfortable and

Celebrities aren't the only

have so much in

confident with themselves. You

ones who have noticed her

common and

are beautiful from your head to

brand. Teen Vogue recognized

inspire each

your toes. Be proud of your skin;

her in their "21 Under 21," an

other to be

it was made just for you!"

honor that's given to very few!

better."

Photography: Lee Gumbs • Design: Nikki Cole, Tyler Amaral • Writing: Veronica Good, Nikki Cole

Whether it was one of her viral videos, her appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, or her role on Raising Heaven, chances are you've seen Heaven King dancing on your screen before. We met up with Heaven at our photoshoot recently and got the inside scoop on what makes Ms. King the queen she is!

Got it From Her Mama While many dancers start dance young, very few get to witness studio-life as early on as Heaven did. Her mom, Tianne, owned a dance studio that Heaven went to before she could even walk! "I used to watch my mom a lot, and it looked like fun, so I started to copy her moves, and I started to love it from there," Heaven told us.

"Now, I love the way that dancing makes me feel and

how dancing can change my mood and energy. Dancing sparks my creativity and makes me feel productive."

Heaven didn't just learn the moves from her mother, though; they regularly dance together and create dance videos! "The energy my mom and I share when we dance is incredible," she said.

"It's a different bond we share while we dance." As for how it feels to have her mom as a dance partner?

Heaven loves it. "It's fun because your mom is usually the closest person to you, so

when you share something that you both love… you become unstoppable!"

Going Viral

Photography: Ana Ochoa • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Heaven King • Wardrobe Stylist: Angel Roberts

Speaking of those motherdaughter dance videos, quite a few of them have gone viral. Dancing to hit songs from some of our favorite celebrities (including Beyoncé, Missy Elliott, Nicki Minaj, Bruno Mars, and more), some of Heaven's YouTube videos have over twenty million views.

Heaven's favorite part of the whole thing? The connection it's given her to other dancers. "My proudest moment was when people started wanting to dance and collaborate with me," she told us. There is one collaboration Heaven hasn't done yet—but one she's hoping to have soon. "I'd love to collaborate with Ariana Grande," she told us.

"Her music is amazing, and her voice is so beautiful!"

skateboarding, singing, fashion, and beauty (especially makeup).

"Makeup helps me express myself in a new way!" Heaven explained.

She's even working on her own fashion line right now!

Heaven isn't all-workand-no-play all the time, though. This is the happiness issue, so of course, we had to ask Heaven what her happy place is. "My happy place is in my room by myself, relaxing, eating snacks, and watching my shows," she told us.

Her favorite snack?

Ramen noodles!

The Future As for what Heaven hopes to accomplish in the future, she's leaving the door open for any opportunity. "My words to live by are 'always be open to something new,'" she told us.

Heaven's Hobbies When Heaven isn't in the studio with her mom, you can catch her creating dance content for TikTok, Instagram, and her YouTube channel. "I dance all the time around the house. I'm always taking dance breaks and making videos on my phone," she explained.

Dance isn't Heaven's only hobby, though. In fact, it's far from it! She has a ton of interests, including art, painting, basketball,

While she hopes one day to be in fashion shows and movies and have her own clothing line, there's one thing Heaven will never give up: dance. "Dance has taught me to never give up and to keep pushing no matter how hard things get," she told us.

In the meantime, stay tuned for a new season of The Heaven Show on her YouTube channel and for her fashion line being released this year!

W

e get it. You want to dance

the popular #365daysofskate

"comebacks" despite being a

everywhere all the time, and

and #MoxiSkateDaily challenges

major part of many cultures and

you're always looking for

motivating people to get on eight

movements. (Did you know that

new moves and combinations to

wheels and learn something new.

roller skating played a part in

add to your already impressive

Skaters have been dancing and

the Civil Rights Movement?) Right

skills. What if you took your

rolling around on everything from

now, we might be cruising solo,

fancy footwork to another

small wooden wheels to chunky

but putting on a pair of skates has

level...by adding wheels?

outdoor wheels for literal ages.

always been a social activity and

A HOBBY WITH A HISTORY

Roller skates have existed since

a community builder. the 1740s, and since people have

BEGINNERS START HERE

Roller skating isn't actually

strapped wheels onto their feet,

making a comeback right now—

we haven't been able to get

What do you need for skating of

though it is super trendy. It's

enough of them. A hobby that

any kind? We've got you covered

probably all over your TikTok

never really goes out of fashion,

with options for where to find

and Instagram pages with

roller skating has had many

skates, gear, and more.

Photography: Corrie Mattson, Vanessa Lopez, Marco Trinidad, Shutterstock • Writing: Veronica Good • Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Zelina Roxas, Nicole Fiore, Esty

First, you'll need a pair of skates!

with. Roller skating is the perfect

Moxi, Suregrip, and Impala are

social (but socially-distanced)

a good place to start looking for

activity because you and your

skates that match your personality

wheels to arrive, there's still plenty

friends will need all that extra

and your budget, but they're by

of pre-skating to do. Finding a

room for your impressive moves

no means your only options. Each

community is an important part

anyway! You can also look for

brand has its own unique look and

of roller skating. Follow people on

resources for learning tricks and

price. For instance, Moxi skates

Instagram and TikTok that are as

choreography. There are plenty

are iconic in the skate industry for

excited about skating as you are

of off-wheel basics to work on,

being stylish, and they are known

(check out the sidebar on the next

too, like pre- and post-skate

for quality skates that you can

page for some skaters we love!)

stretches and how to fall.

cruise and groove in. Impala skates

and find local skaters to cruise

come in pretty much every color

Speaking of falling—from small

and pattern. They are more of an

stumbles to proper falls, you're

entry-level skate, but you can do a

going to be doing a lot of it as

lot in them. When you start looking

you learn. It's part of the fun!

for skates, style is just as important

That doesn't mean you shouldn't

as quality, so do your research!

try to avoid scrapes, bruises,

Your ankles will thank you.

and more serious injuries.

Having padding like wrist

Depending on the skates you're

guards, elbow and knee pads,

after, you might be in for a wait

and even a helmet is important.

as skates are flying off the digital

Luckily, these come in as many

shelves. While you wait for your

styles as the skates themselves,

so you can find protective gear

what kind of skates you want to

that matches your personality.

start with. In fact, your favorite

Triple 8 and Moxi both carry

style probably translates well to

helmets and protective gear

a type of skating. Ballet, jazz, and

that are sturdy and fabulous!

contemporary fans will likely find

If you happen to pick up a pair

themselves at home in artistic and

of Impala skates, many of the

figure skating styles, while hip hop

skates have matching pads to

dancers, breakers, and street dance

go with them!

enthusiasts will love jam skating.

If you're not sure, rhythm skates

Now, all you need is a place to

are generally good for beginners

skate! Your local skating rinks,

because the extra support will help

bike trails, and even tennis

you avoid ankle injuries.

courts are great places to skate if you want to go beyond your

Now that you have the basics

own neighborhood.

covered, the next step to being a beginning skater is to get things

JAMMING AND ROLLING

rolling! Literally. So... what are you waiting for?! Grab some skates,

There are many types of

imagine your favorite dance move

skating, from street and skate

on wheels and make it happen!

park skating to artistic and jam skating. As a dancer, you're probably most interested in how you can put your studio skills to work on wheels. Plus, you likely already have the flexibility and balance required for some of the more intricate moves. Splits, needles, scorpions, and even pointed toes all have a place in roller skating!

Rhythm skates have high boots (gotta have that ankle support) similar to an artistic or ice skating boot, and they're made to be sturdy and agile for everything from a chill cruise to toe spins.

Jam skates have low ankles (like sneakers) to have a larger range of motion for hip hop and breakdance influenced moves.

You can do many jam moves in rhythm skate boots and vice versa, but knowing where your interests lie will help you decide

50 B

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H

annah Grace Colin

DANCE MOMS After performing on stages across

over again! We all became really

plays ukulele and bass guitar,

the country, Hannah scored a role

close by the end of the show.

roller skates, and skateboards!

that many dancers dream of… a

When you go through all of the

She even used to be a gymnast

spot on Lifetime's Dance Moms, a

trials and triumphs that we did, I

before focusing on dance.

moment that helped her recognize

think it's natural that you would

that dance could be a career path

form bonds together. I am still

With all of that talent, it's

for her. "Like most little girls who

close to everyone on the show!"

no surprise that she loves to

dance, I have always wanted

perform. "I absolutely LOVE

to make dance my career," she

to perform, and every time I

explained, "to move to NYC, and

get that chance it's amazing,"

become a Rockette. I guess I didn't

Hannah recently took her talents

Hannah told us. One of her

realize it could actually happen to

to a new stage for the Miss

earliest performances?

me until the show!"

Collegiate South's Outstanding

sings, acts, models,

PAGEANTS

Teen pageant, where she won!

At a Showstopper dance

Photography: Ana Ochoa • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Hannah Grace Colin • Wardrobe Stylist: Angel Roberts

moms and Abby argue," she explained, "but I would do it all

does it all. She dances,

competition, of course! "I

As for her experience on Dance

She hopes to go on to compete in

remember winning one year,

Moms, Hannah is just so grateful

Miss America's Outstanding Teen

and the next year my picture

for the opportunity. "It changed

so she can spread a message she's

was in the program," she shared.

my life!" she explained. "Never

passionate about: kindness!

"That was really cool!" As for her

in my wildest dreams did I ever

proudest moment in dance, she's

think something like this would

between two things: "I think I am

happen to me, the little girl from

most proud of being recognized

New Albany, Indiana! While she

While most have struggled to find

as a good role model for young

described her

the silver lining in the clouds of

dancers when I go to dance

time on the

conventions and competitions,"

show as "one

she told us, "but also I am

of the best

also pretty proud of being

experiences

are until you can't do things," she

interviewed for Showstopper

of [her] life,"

said. "I have loved spending the

Magazine!" (We're blushing.)

it wasn't

extra time with my family and

without

slowing down a little bit!"

''

When you go through all of the

TRIALS and TRIUMPHS

ONE HAPPY HANNAH

this past year, Hannah has been grateful for the free time!

"You don't realize how busy you

challenges.

"The show was tough sometimes, and it wasn't easy listening to the

that we did, I think it's natural that you would

form bonds @GOSHOWSTOPPER

B 51

Photography: Top Shop, Shutterstock • Design: Nikki Cole, Tyler Amaral • Writing: Veronica Good

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L

eon Kida Burns,

to choreograph for

also known as

Offset on stage while

'Kida the Great,'

he was performing was

has been dancing

probably one of my

across our screens

favorite jobs I've ever

for over a decade.

done," he shared.

It might be hard to believe, but eleven

KIDA'S KEY TO SUCCESS

years ago, Kida stood on the stage of The

So what does someone

Ellen DeGeneres Show,

who has accomplished

after one of his dance

so much consider his key

videos went viral, and

to success? Consistency.

said, "I want to be a

"I have been doing it

great entertainer." And

for so long that it can

greatness is exactly

be tiring after a while,"

what he achieved.

Kida revealed, "but

Photography: Ana Ochoa • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Leon "Kida" Burns • Wardrobe Stylist: Angel Roberts

what I try to do to keep Kida learned to dance

myself up and going is

from his older brother

never to stop. I always

and other adults, which

keep myself dancing,

he feels gave him the

choreographing, and

edge he needed to

working on my craft."

aspire for more. Since he wasn't usually

Kida also attributes a

treated like a kid when

lot of his success to his

it came to dancing, he

family. "I couldn't tell you

set the bar much higher

what I'd be doing right

for himself. "I was

now without them," he

always striving to that

told us. "Some people in

level," he told us. After

today's generation are

winning Season 13 of

easily influenced, but

So You Think You Can

my family has kept me

Dance and competing

grounded since day one."

with Bailey Sok on

Even his father, who

NBC's World of Dance,

passed away in 2014,

Kida is no stranger to

continues to impact

the stage. He's even

his life significantly.

danced with Chris

"When my dad passed

Brown and Usher! Now,

away, we were putting

Kida is taking his dance

away his last outfit and

skills behind the scenes

happened to look in his

as a choreographer,

coat pocket and find

working for stars like

a note," Kida shared.

Justin Bieber and

"It said, 'keep praying,

Offset, an experience

keep planning, and keep

he says he'll never

pushing.' My family lives

forget. "Being able

by this motto now, and

tattooed on me; that's

EVEN MORE GREATNESS

how much it means to me. We know my dad is

As for what Kida wants

watching every day."

to do next, he'd love to become a creative

DEALING WITH HATE

director. "I don't want to stop dancing, but

Kida also has faced his

I want to take on the

fair share of online hate,

role of overseeing

but he's found a way to

everything," he told

let it fuel his fire rather

us. "I think that I got a

than stifle it. "If people

taste of it with Justin

are hating, you're clearly

Bieber's 'Come Around

doing something right,"

Me' video, having so

he explained. "So let

much control. I think that

them talk. The more they

was one of my biggest

talk, the more it can fuel

accomplishments

you to want to be better."

because not only did I get to choreograph it,

While Kida rolls with

I got to have creative

the hate he gets, he is

input on everything for

very conscious of all

the video." Kida also

constructive criticism.

gave us a teaser on some

"Hate and constructive

of his new projects. "I

criticism are two totally

can’t talk about it much

different things," he

but I have two words: TV

said. "I've always liked

streaming," he revealed.

constructive criticism;

"I also have a lot coming

that's how I grew.

up with my clothing line,

I've gotten it from

collabs, and much more!"

my mom, my family, choreographers, and my

This year, he graduated

teachers. I've taken it,

high school and bought

applied it, and it's gotten

his family a house. "As

me to where I am today.

long as my family is

There's a difference

good, I’m good," he

between hate and

shared. "My happy place

criticism. With criticism,

is anywhere I can dance,

that person actually

create, and be with

wants you to grow. They

my family," he shared.

want you to apply it

"Those are the three

and be a better you or

most important things to

a better dancer. Hate is

me," he shared. "As long

different; they just have

as I've got my family by

nothing else to do and

my side, that's where my

want to hate." Great

happiness comes from."

advice, especially in this

A great sentiment from

day and age.

a great dancer.

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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Photography: Provided by Dancers • Design: Holly Childs

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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Taking her first-ever dance class at daycare, Destiny Wimpye knew she wanted to be a dancer from her very first time on stage. "I remember being so excited to perform. I enjoyed being on stage so much, hearing the applause, and seeing all the different faces," she told us. While she’s learned and accomplished many things since (including performing with Mariah Carey and at the White House!), she will always love the stage. "I still love to peform; it’s one of my favorite parts of dancing," she said.

DEBBIE ALLEN & BEYOND Destiny took a summer intensive at Debbie Allen Dance Academy at just nine years old, and after falling in love with the place, the people, and the training, she and her mom decided to make a big move to Los Angeles! "When we decided to move to LA,

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we were taking a risk," Destiny explained. "It was challenging for me to leave the rest of my family and friends. But, I feel that both my mom and I knew it was an amazing opportunity that we couldn’t neglect."

Since then, Destiny has regularly attended summer intensives to improve her technique. This past summer, she attended the Pacific Northwest Ballet’s summer course, where she applied to the Professional Division Program. "The program was five weeks long, and all the dancers who applied were being considered for the program," she explained. She wasn’t sure if she’d get the spot, but either way, it was worth it.

"I have always loved the training and the teachers at PNB, so I had an amazing experience," Destiny told us. Thanks to her hard work and dedication, though, she found out in July (via Zoom, nonetheless) that

she was being offered a PD position! Within just a couple of months, Destiny packed her things and moved to Seattle! "I feel as though this is a huge step towards my professional career as a ballet dancer," she told us.

AUDITION TIPS

Photography: Drea Nicole, Rachel Neville • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Destiny Wimpye

While most auditions are done within a day (or a few days), Destiny’s fiveweek summer course was basically one long audition,

so we had to find out what she'd recommend for other dancers auditioning.

"My advice would be to make sure that you try to show yourself and who you are in the audition," she explained. "Most programs and schools that audition have auditioned thousands of dancers already. You want to make sure you show them something different that will help them remember you."

So remember what makes you unique and use it to shine. Noted!

FINDING HAPPINESS We asked the dancers featured in our magazine what brought them joy this year despite all that happened.

For Destiny, it was loved ones, solitude, and, of course, dance! "My family and friends make me the happiest," she told us.

"I also like finding quiet places that allow me to prepare or reflect on the day, even if that’s being outside on a nice day or getting to the studio early."

MAKING A DIFFERENCE As passionate as Destiny is about ballet, she's equally passionate about diversity, representation, and inclusion in dance.

"I want to continue to help change the face of ballet and normalize seeing dancers of all ethnicities on stage," she explained. "I love that dance connects so many diverse people with different backgrounds and experiences."

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Hey! I’m Holly Childs, Editorin-Chief of Showstopper Magazine, and last fall, I took a solo road trip across the country. I visited so many gorgeous, remote places, and there were a few days where I didn’t see a single person. It was the perfect time to reflect, recharge, and appreciate the beautiful world we have!

I explored national parks, saw a massive array of wildlife, and, of course, took a ton of photos. It was one of the best trips I've ever taken, so I wanted to share my tips with you so you can plan your own fun road trip!

Whether it’s a weekend long, a month long, or anywhere in between, there’s no better way to satisfy your desire for adventure than a road trip with your family, or if you’re old enough, your BFF!

Once you decide where you’re going (start with the tips below!), you’ll want to figure out what weather you’re likely to hit along your journey. For me, I was in 100-degree weather one day and a snowstorm the next!

If you know you’ll be hitting different climates, you’ll want to bring a “winter kit” with you, with gloves, a hat, a scarf, layers, warm socks, and boots that grip well in the snow if you’re doing any hiking.

Unless your whole trip includes snow, I recommend keeping this in a separate bag, so you don’t have to sift through it when you’re in warmer climates.

Other than that, stick with neutrals and basics that are comfy and easy to mix and match: leggings, shorts, tanks, hoodies, and competition tees are all perfect. Don't forget comfy shoes! Feel free to also bring a few “cute” items to get a few pics for the ‘Gram. I went with a few light dresses. They’re easy to pack and can be layered with tights and a jacket depending on the weather!

Not sure where to go? I recommend starting by writing down a list of all the places you’d love to see, marking them on a map, and deciding what makes the most sense with the time you have. You can always go on another trip in the future so I highly recommend that you don’t plan so many places that you feel rushed. This trip is the perfect time to relax, take in the beauty of our world, and let nature recenter you. Be sure to find fun, smaller stops on the way to your big destinations!

While these tech tools aren’t must-haves, they definitely can make a good trip even better! Here are my favorites: » Phone mount for the car » Extra battery pack & charger » Tripod & remote shutter » Video stabilizer (for dance vids!) » Headphones &/or a speaker » A battery-operated fan » A kindle with some good reads

A road trip is the perfect time to take classes at different dance studios and gain experience from new instructors and choreographers. While you're planning your stops, be sure to plan time to drop-in a few classes along the way! When you're not taking classes, you should still incorporate dance into your journey! After a long drive in the car, dance breaks are a great way to loosen your muscles up and even make a fun TikTok video in the process. Our road trip playlist below will give you the perfect soundtrack for your adventure!

Looking for a destination with a whole lot of dance? We've got you covered! We have dance competitons and conventions all across the country. Going to one outside your area is a great way to meet other dancers and experience a whole new city! You can register for as many Regionals events as you want, and if you attend just one of those, you can compete at any of our National Finals (and they're in top vacation-worthy locations!).

Bonus: In a duo or trio group? See if your teacher would let you compete at an extra competition and use it as time to bond even further with your group!

Check out our 2021 schedule at goshowstopper.com

With hits like "Malibu Honey" by Georgia VanNewkirk, here's the perfect road trip playlist: bit.ly/showstopperroadtrip

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There's a ton of road trip info to inspire you on Instagram and TikTok. Just search hashtags of places you want to go or use #roadtrip for an easy place to start! Have questions or just want to follow along on my travels? Let's be insta-friends: @hollyachilds.

You can find showstopper on social, too (@goshowstopper)! Can't travel right now but still want adventure? Check out page 78!

@GOSHOWSTOPPER

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Photography: Shutterstock • Writing/Design: Holly Childs

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Photography: Ryan West, Maiya Buck, Keith Munyan, Lilly K, Shutterstock • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • HMU (Caitlin Carmichael) @adoramuchi

S

arah Georgiana is like any other Pittsburgh girl who loves to go shopping, make TikToks, and hang out with friends.

The main difference? After watching Dance Moms and being inspired to follow in the footsteps of others who made dance their career… she did just that! If Dance Moms was the first time you saw Sarah on your screen, we guarantee it won't be your last.

DANCE & HARD WORK Starting dance at two years old, Sarah quickly realized that it was her passion. "I just love to dance," Sarah told us. "It brings me joy and it's a way for me to express what I am feeling through music and movement."

While she started with just ballet, she's now extremely well-rounded—something she considers her biggest strength. "I think my versatility sets me apart," she explained. "I am strongest in jazz, and I can tumble, but if needed, I can throw on ballet or tap shoes!"

Her versatility didn't come without a lot of hard work, though, even with the pandemic going on. "I never stopped training," she said.

"I continued to take classes

but it was also beneficial in preparing the

virtually, which, I have to be

girls for the fast turnaround time required

honest, I did not love. However,

in the industry. "We really did learn new

I am now back in the studios

dances weekly," she explained. "We didn't

and happy to be with teachers

start learning the dances until Wednesday

and friends. I average eight to

afternoon each week. We would start with

twelve hours of ballet each week,

'pyramid' on Wednesday morning (which

ten hours of dance studio time for

takes all morning to film), then after

technique, weekend rehearsals,

lunch we would start the dances.

plus my tumbling lessons."

The timeline was hectic, but it was great preparation for us. When

Sarah recognizes the importance of

cast for a future job, we'll be able to

hard work and dedication while also

pick up choreography and jump into

recognizing that she's still young and

a role quickly!"

it can't be all work, all the time. "You have to work hard every day," Sarah told us. "Nothing comes easy, and it takes consistent effort every day to make things happen. Just make sure you do take time to have

FINDING JOY

some fun. Don't take it seriously every minute. There has to be a

This past year has been tough on many of

balance. I'm only thirteen, so I am

us, and finding happiness has been a key

still figuring everything out and am

part of getting through it. For Sarah, her

pretty flexible with my schedule."

happy place isn't necessarily about where she is, but who she's with and how she

Photography: Frank Del Moral • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Sarah Georgiana

DANCE MOMS

feels about herself. "I am at my happiest when I'm with people who make me laugh,

While being cast on Dance Moms

smile, and feel joy," she explained. She

was a dream-come-true for Sarah,

also left us with some advice: "It's

it didn't come without its struggles.

so important to know

"I was beyond excited to be part of it,"

who you are and what

she told us, "but it was a very chaotic,

stressful time as well. I had to travel to

you really like, not what others tell you to like. This is where

the set daily so I'd get up at 4:30AM and

you can find happiness. Find out what

not get home until the evening." As if the

you are good at and what you love to

long days weren't enough of a challenge,

do and find ways to do it every day.

the show's timeline was difficult as well,

Your joy will skyrocket!"

S

ome people discover their love of dance by watching

an older sibling or because their parent owns a studio. For Kayla Mak, her dance discovery

dancing, Kayla

came in the form of a movie she

gives it all she’s got.

just happened to see one day—

"I love the feeling of putting my all

Barbie in the Nutcracker. After

into something," she said. "I feel

of the people I met from that

seeing it, she told us she "could

most free when I am dancing."

experience, and I will cherish

not stop dancing!" And so her story began.

our friendships forever."

Playing Clara World of Dance

Taking the Leap

One of Kayla’s favorite experiences was when she got

Kayla also competed on World

Now, Kayla has accomplished

to play the coveted role of Clara.

of Dance, and the audition

two things most dancers can

"This experience holds a special

process didn’t exactly go how

only dream about: playing Clara

place in my heart," she told us.

she expected it to. "The audition

in the Radio City Christmas

"Being able to dance on that

process was not your usual

Spectacular and competing on

stage alongside the Rockettes and

audition process," she explained.

NBC’s World of Dance! All of this

represent my Asian-American

"I had to prepare two minute-long

hasn’t come without hard work,

roots was such an honor and

solos. During my audition process,

though, and when it comes to

privilege. I am still close with most

I came in with two pieces: one on-

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pointe and one off-pointe. After

Showstopper is getting to perform

finishing both pieces, the director

with all of my best friends," she

asked me if I could perform

told us. "The environment was so

my off-pointe piece… but with

welcoming, and it pushed us to be

pointe shoes! I never practiced

better and stronger."

it on-pointe, but with all of the adrenaline rushing through my

Finding Joy

body, I went for it, and I am so glad I did!" After surprising the judges

Like many others this past year,

(and herself!) with her impressive

she spent her time differently

pointe piece, she sat down with the

than she planned but ended up

producers. "I did an interview with

finding happiness in unexpected

them and got to tell them more

things. "During this chaotic year,

about myself," she told us. "The

I was able to spend more time at

audition process was so fun!"

home which I rarely can do!" she explained. "This year has given

As for her favorite memory while

me so much: a stronger love for

competing? Her first rehearsal on

dance and a better understanding

stage. "The stage took my breath

of myself and my limitations. I

away!" she said. Overall, the

am so grateful for what I have in

experience was one she will never

my life, and I would not trade it

forget. "To this day, I still cannot

for the world!" As for the place

believe it happened," she told us,

that brings her the most joy, she

"and I feel so grateful to have had

told us, "my happy place is either

the opportunity to share my love

at my studio or at home. At my

for dance with the world. It was

dance studio, I lose track of time!

a true gift to share the stage with

I can stay there for hours!"

such inspiring dancers and people.

I will hold them and this experience Photography: Collette Mruk • Writing/Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Kayla Mak

near and dear to my heart!"

A Balancing Act With all of her training and performing, Kayla said that in the past she’s had difficulty juggling it all. "Balancing my school and dance schedules has definitely been a struggle," she admitted, "but over time, I learned how to manage my time efficiently and focus on my priorities."

When Kayla isn’t in the studio (or playing Clara or competing on World of Dance…), she's at dance competitions! She's even been to Showstopper a few times saying, "my favorite memory from

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Photography: Jennifer Haidle, Earl Tyndall • Writing: Hayley Mac Cooper • Design: Holly Childs • Featured: Icesiis Magana, Maely Swaim • Location: Zachary Kelley (Barbie Photo)

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Writing: Holly Childs • Design: Holly Childs, Nikki Cole • Featured Products: Pottery Barn Teen & Pottery Barn Kids

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L

"

ittle brown girl with big

entertained other people too."

dreams." That's Liza

Part of Liza's day is sharing her

Koshy's Instagram bio.

life and her humor with her

As an influencer, YouTube star,

fans. That means she's sharing

director, actress, comedian (is

crazy situations in her YouTube

there anything she can't do!?),

original show Liza on Demand,

and so much more, Liza's big

adding humor to her favorite

dreams have taken her far. She

TikTok trends, and sharing her

went from being a teenager

favorite products with her fans

making YouTube videos on

on a regular basis. You might

an iPad to the movie star and

even catch her hosting a dance

influencer she is today.

show like Quibi's Floored. We're honestly floored by how much

MOVIN' AND GROOVIN'

she does!

Did you know that Liza was

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

captain of her high school dance team? Dance parties

As an influencer, you might call

might be on hold right now, but

Liza a friend of the world, but her

that doesn't mean you won't

IRL friends are some of our faves,

catch her busting a move on

too. From her Work It co-stars

her various platforms. Or if

Sabrina Carpenter and Jordan

you can't get enough of Liza's

Fisher to red carpet chemistry

dancing, you could watch her

with Cardi B, it seems like Liza

play Jas in Netflix's Work It,

doesn't have issues making fast

where she dances with her

friends with everyone she meets

bestie Sabrina Carpenter.

(including the ghosts in her house that she talks to on TikTok).

Photography: Shutterstock • Writing: Veronica Good • Design: Holly Childs

"I started dancing at the age of four, so I started doing, like,

When it comes to her fans, it's

ballet and jazz and tap.," she

all about joy. Liza hypes her

told Trevor Noah during an

followers up with 4:00AM

interview on The Daily Show. As

TikToks and funny captions. Plus,

a dancer and active goofball,

how could you not aspire to be

Liza is no stranger to a workout

awesome when you're watching

and stretch routine.

Liza have fun and accomplish amazing things from movie roles

SHE'S GOT A LOT GOING ON

to becoming a member of the Director's Guild of America?

From YouTube to TikTok to the big screen, Liza Koshy takes

USING HER INFLUENCE FOR GOOD

content creation to a whole new level, and she says it all started

Liza has a lot of amazing personal

by accident. "I'm going to be

projects, but she also uses her

honest," Liza told Teen Vogue,

influence to make a difference in

"I was straight-up bored. I

the world. Last year, she worked

was just entertaining myself,

with Michelle Obama and

and whoops, I accidentally

#CreatorsForChange to create a

YouTube Original documentary that raised money for the Girls Opportunity Alliance, which works to empower and educate girls across the world.

"I've never been so candid and so open and vulnerable with others and learning that it's not just my story—" she says in the documentary, "which is how I originally got started, was just sharing my own—but now lending my voice to promote our story and our journey, that this is a collective experience."

She also used her Instagram and TikTok to encourage her followers to vote in 2020. Liza's influence doesn't turn on and off between her posts and videos, so she's using it to leave lasting messages and educate her followers on things she cares about.

SKINCARE: UNDER THE MASK Liza cares a lot about her skin (and yours!). Last year, she collaborated with C'est Moi to create the clean beauty line One of One. If you don't know what clean beauty is, Liza broke it down when she was featured on Vogue's "Beauty Secrets," "It's the one thing I don't like dirty, is my beauty, okay?" Ha! Actually, clean beauty is an effort to find and use products that don't contain ingredients like parabens, fragrances, silica, and other ingredients that might be harmful to your skin.

Growing up performing led Liza to makeup. After years of wearing heavy stage makeup, it's no wonder she's so concerned about taking good care of

her skin.

Along with choosing and creating products with the best ingredients, she's also big on an often neglected skincare routine step: SPF. "The sun affects us all, and sun damage is cancer-causing, it's wrinkle-causing."

Protect your skin!

As she admitted to Cosmopolitan, Liza is a little obsessed with face masks. "I also do, like, eight masks a night," she said, "which you're probably not supposed to do, but it makes me feel happy…" Okay.

Maybe more than a little. Liza probably isn't really using that many masks on a daily basis (we hope!), but she's right about one thing: Happiness should be a major part of your routine.

So whether you are multi-masking, TikToking, or trying to change the world, Liza's been there. It's a lot to take on, but, as Liza's proven, happiness and being yourself can take you a long way. You just have to go for it!

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High Rise Super Skinny Jeans–Medium Wash · High Rise Super Skinny Jeans–Black Destroy · Cozy Brushed Shirt Jacket–Blue Plaid · Reversible Oversized Full-Zip Sherpa Hoodie Crop Boyfriend Hoodie—Grey Must-Have Crop Baby Cami–White · Cozy-Lined Parka–Dark Brown · Cozy Reversible Twist Sweater–White • Ultra High Rise Vintage Straight Jeans–Washed Black · Must-Have Baby Tee—White

Photography: Hollister, Jordan Matter • Design: Holly Childs • Writing: Veronica Good • Cover Star: Charli D'Amelio • Wardrobe: Hollister Co. (details below)

Y

ou might think not just

remember. My parents joke that

anyone can be famous,

I could dance before I could even

but for TikTok star Charli

walk," Charli told us when we

D'Amelio, that's kind of how it all

asked about her dance career.

started. At fifteen, Charli was

"I started competitively dancing

doing what most teenagers are

when I was five and fell in love

right now. She spent a lot of time

with everything about it, from

on TikTok making videos with

the people to the costumes to the

her friends and family.

storytelling. It's a part of my life that I feel most connected with."

HOW IT BEGAN Now, Charli's dance background "TikTok is a very creative app

isn't just for the stage (though she

where there's not one thing to

did register for Showstopper's

put it in a category of. It's 15- to

2020 regional competition in

60-second videos of really

Connecticut). Instead, she

doing whatever you want.

focuses on quick routines and

Sometimes I vlog. I mostly

accessible dances created by

dance…" Charli shared with

people across the internet.

Jimmy Fallon in early 2020. "I

These routines, from the hip-

actually had, like, the one video

hop-inspired "Savage" (Megan

to go viral that kind of started it

Thee Stallion) dance created by

all. It was a duet of this woman

TikToker Keara "Keke" Wilson to

@movewithjoy who makes easy

the viral "Say So" (Dua Lipa)

dances. And it's her voice

dance created by Haley Sharpe,

speaking, and you just copy

fill Charli's TikTok page.

whatever she says. So, I dueted the video that she did, and it was

"It is a way for me to express my

just like, 'Step, step, hip, hip,' like

creativity–I love to dance and

stuff like that, very simple. It was

share that [love] with others,"

like eight moves, and I posted it."

Charli said about the way that her passion for dance and her new

At the time, Charli was on her

fame come together. "It is always

way to a summer dance camp.

fun to try the new challenges and

Charli's phone was getting

put your own spin on it."

blasted with notifications during the drive to camp. From 90 likes

A DIFFERENT TYPE OF DANCE

to 500 likes to 10,000 likes. By the time she started dancing,

Even though dancing and

the video had 50,000 likes, and

TikTok-ing go hand-in-hand for

suddenly she was taking TikTok

Charli and many of the other

a lot more seriously.

800 million users, TikTok dances

HER LOVE OF DANCE

are their own genre.

But before there was TikTok, there was dance. "I have been dancing for as long as I can @GOSHOWSTOPPER

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short period of time. I never started this journey with any goals other than to have fun and connect with people who may feel or experience what I feel as a teen."

And she has. Her videos have comments in the tens and hundreds of thousands. There are even fan accounts on TikTok dedicated to editing her videos and photos, but even more than that, Charli has inspired other teens to dance and be creative.

On Giving Tuesday in 2020, Charli partnered with TikTok to host a

"TikTok is

live stream that would donate a

different than the

large grant to the American Dance

dancing I used to do

Movement to provide funding for

as much of it relies on movements from the waist up," she shared. "It's a lot

dance education in the United States and allow Charli's followers to donate even more during the

about the hands and facial

stream. "I am so thankful, and

expressions, so while there are

being able to donate $100k

elements of my training that are

through the Charli D'Amelio Dance

helpful, it's still very different

Grant and working with the

than my trained dance moves."

American Dance Movement to ensure ten dance studios received

FAME & GIVING BACK

the funding they need meant everything to me," she said,

Since that first viral video in May

looking back on the past year.

2019, Charli has skyrocketed to TikTok fame. By March 2020,

COLLABORATIONS

fifteen-year-old Charli was the most popular person on TikTok.

Charli has been extremely busy

(She holds a Guinness World

since she posted that iconic

Record for the accomplishment.)

eight-count video on the way to

On November 21, 2020, Charli,

dance camp. She's posted nearly

now sixteen, became the first

2,000 videos on TikTok,

TikTok creator to reach 100

accumulating eight billion likes,

million followers, just over a year

moved from her family home in

after reaching her first million.

Connecticut to a Los Angeles mansion, and worked with big

"It's been amazing and a little

brands, organizations, and

strange," Charli said of reaching

celebrities for everything from

this milestone, "but for the first

drinks (she has her own Dunkin'

time, I can say I am really proud

Donuts drink simply called "The

of what we accomplished in a

Charli"), to fundraisers.

"I have been able to meet and dance

"but we are so thankful for all it has

with idols of mine like JLo (Charli is

brought." If she could give her

featured in JLo and Maluma's "Pa' Ti

younger self any advice on this wild

+ Lonely" video) and Bebe Rexha,"

journey? "The only person whose

Charli commented on her success,

opinion matters is your own."

"and I have been able to explore opportunities I never dreamed of

USING HER INFLUENCE

like working with brands such as Hollister and Morphe and

With over 100 million followers,

attending Paris Fashion Week.

Charli has a lot of influence. She

There have been so many

tries to use it to spread positivity

special moments, almost too

and awareness, urging her

many to count." You can see some of her work with Hollister on these very

followers to pay attention to everything from bullying to the misfortunes of arctic foxes. "I try

pages, as Charli is

not to put any pressure on my

styled in their winter

'role' as an influencer, but I hope

collection.

that I can bring joy and spread positivity to others," she said. "The

CHANGES

internet can be a dark, negative

& CHALLENGES

space, and my only goal is [to] bring some light into those places.

Fast fame might sound like the

dream, but it isn't all easy.

"Being on

social media

has been a

Being able to work with and support organizations that I love and connect with people from all over the world is really an amazing gift."

One of the most recent ways that

big change

Charli has tried to connect with

for my family

her fans is with her debut book

and me," Charli shared with us,

Essentially Charli: The Ultimate Guide to Keeping it Real, a look at who the TikTok superstar really is behind the viral videos and dances. "[It] is all about my life so far," Charli shared, "the friends I have made, my family I love, navigating the haters. It was really great being able to express myself in another way different than dance and social media, and I enjoyed the writing experience a lot. I got to look through old photos and memories and share them with others so that people could learn more about my life."

With music videos, books, and collaborations keeping her busy alongside her Instagram, YouTube, Triller, and, of course, TikTok content, Charli is beyond busy.

However, she still takes time to enjoy life and find some happiness in her hectic schedule. It helps that her happy place is a simple one: anywhere she's surrounded by her family and their dogs.

In 2020, Charli found happiness giving back through the #distancedance fundraising campaign and her dance grant. "[It] was really rewarding," she said. "2020 wasn't an easy year, and being able to help others is important to my family and me."

UP NEXT This year, Charli and her family are starring in a new Hulu reality TV show called The D'Amelio Show, but right now, she is excited about her recent Hollister collab with her sister and fellow TikTok celeb Dixie and the positivity she hopes it will spread. "My sister and I also just worked with Hollister on designing our own shirts and sweatshirts with messages of positivity on them," she said. "It makes me happy that even the people we work with care about spreading kindness and happiness. It's really important to me." @GOSHOWSTOPPER

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Photography: Shutterstock, Ana Ochoa • Writing/Design: Holly Childs

ACROSS

DOWN

4

Kayla Mak played this coveted role in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

1

Hip hop dancers, breakers, and street dance enthusiasts will love ___ skating.

5

Both Nadia Turner and her Total Eclipse character, Jenna, have a passion for _______.

2

Heaven King’s favorite snack is _____ noodles.

3

6

Destiny Wimpye hopes to play this character in Balanchine’s Nutcracker.

This edition of Showstopper Magazine is the _________ issue.

8

7

Hannah Grace Colin is passionate about this virtue.

Kheris Rogers was the youngest designer to ever debut a collection at New York _______ ____.

9

When it comes to beauty essentials, Liza Koshy is obsessed with ____ _____.

11

Aubrey Miller’s favorite scene in Just Add Magic: Mystery City was when a magical recipe caused an __________.

10

In Ruby Rose Turner’s favorite episode of Coop and Cami, she sang a song by this artist.

12

14

Kida Burns hopes to become a creative ________.

Complete this piece of advice from Sarah Georgiana: Find out what you are good at and what you ____ to do.

15

Charli D’amelio’s posted her first-to-go-viral TikTok on her way to _____ ____.

13

Mirabelle and Anais Lee both played the role of _____ in their first movie.

16

Kelsey Lee Cook’s new IGTV series is called ___ ___.

17

Anna McNulty has tons of videos on her YouTube channel to help you improve your ___________.

18

Sky Katz’ dance-focused music video, “On the Block,” was filmed in _______.

HINT: Use articles in this magazine to find the answers!

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B 93

Aquarius

PISCES

ARIES

(1/20-2/18)

(2/19-3/20)

(3/21-4/19)

This year your happiness

This past year has

If there’s one mantra you

will come in the form of

required more flexibility

should remember right

finding what you’re truly

than even you could

now, Aries, it’s that good

passionate about. You

muster up, Pisces. You

things are worth the

love to help others and

might be feeling a little

wait. You're eager to get

this year will give you the

burnt out because you

started on your next goal,

opportunity to do just

tend to give a lot of time

but you’re going to face

that! While the path you

and effort to others. Take

some boundaries. Keep

choose might come as a

the time you need to rest

that passion aflame any

surprise to those around

up mentally so you can

way you can so you can

you, your true friends

tackle the second half of

achieve even more when

will support you!

this year with grace!

the path is clear.

Joy-Invoking Trait: Friendly

Joy-Invoking Trait: Selfless

Joy-Invoking Trait: Energetic

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

(7/22-8/22)

(8/23-9/22)

(9/23-10/22)

Within the next few months,

You’ve been hard on yourself

You might be faced with a

you’re going to have the

lately, Virgo. With your

situation soon that doesn’t

opportunity to take on a

natural humbleness and your

quite align with your Libra

leadership role in your life.

tendency to be a perfectionist,

energy. While you’re very

Whether it be in school,

you haven’t given yourself

adaptable, it’s important

in dance, or in another

the credit you deserve for

that you recognize when

capacity, this is your time

getting through these last few

something is a little too far

to shine! Start brushing up

months. Take some time to

out of your comfort zone.

on your communication

self-reflect and appreciate

Use your natural knack for

skills now, so you can be the

how far you’ve come! You’re

persuasion to reel things

incredible Leo leader that

that much stronger and ready

back into where you

you’re meant to be!

for the year ahead.

can truly shine.

Joy-Invoking Trait: Loyal

Joy-Invoking Trait: Helpful

Joy-Invoking Trait: Peaceful

*for entertainment purposes only

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Writing/Design: Holly Childs

CELEB BIRTHDAYS Anna McNulty April 26th

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

(4/20-5/20)

(5/21-6/20)

(6/21-7/22)

You’ve been a rock for

You’ve picked up some

Your emotions might feel

many people this year

incredible passions lately

a little off this year, so it’s

thanks to your stability

with your extra free time.

going to be key for you to

and calm reserve. And

As a Gemini, though, you

lean on others. This is also

while stones are sturdy,

tend to be a bit restless,

the perfect time to get in

they’re not exactly known

but that’s only because

tune with yourself, as you’re

for rolling with things

you have so many

going to be faced with an

(unless we’re talking British

passions! If one no longer

awesome opportunity by

rock bands). As things start

feels right to you, there's

mid-year. If you already

to shift, you’re going to

nothing wrong with finding

know what you want, you’ll

have to be more flexible

another hobby that brings

be much better suited to

than you’re used to.

you happiness!

make the right choice!

Joy-Invoking Trait: Committed

Joy-Invoking Trait: Charming

Joy-Invoking Trait: Kind

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

(10/23-11/21)

(11/22-12/21)

(12/22-1/19)

Is it too late now to say

While this past year has left

If there’s no plan B (and C,

sorry? Of course not! While

you with time to explore

and D…), you usually don’t

Charli D'Amelio

your intensity is normally a

new passions, it hasn’t

do it. While your practical

May 1st

great quality, your strong

really given you the ability

nature is a great safety

Noah Centineo May 9th

personality may have

to, well, explore! might

net, this year you should

hurt someone close to

be a while 'til your next

try to be a little more

you. It may feel scary to

adventure, though, Sag, so

adventurous! You can still

Joey King

put yourself out there and

use your natural ability to

use that careful Capricorn

July 30th

apologize, but your natural

be organized to come up

nature to plan ahead, but

Scorpio fearlessness will

with a game plan so when

try to spread your wings

give you the courage you

it's time to go, all that’s left

and do something that

need to make amends.

to do is pack your bags!

gives you a few butterflies!

Joy-Invoking Trait: Passionate

Joy-Invoking Trait: Fun-loving

Joy-Invoking Trait: Patient

Lili Reinhart September 13th

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