The Student Lens: The Zoe Interview

 

Hello everyone, and welcome back to the Student Lens. Today, I am going to be interviewing the incredibly talented and absolutely stunning Zoe, who has been a consistent attendee at the studio, and chatting with her about her experience at Elemental Studios. 

Before we get into the interview, let's get to know Zoe a little bit, shall we?

"My Name is Zoe, and I've been dancing at Elemental Studios for a year and a half! I mainly do heels dancing but love to dip into other styles like hip-hop, femme funk, and poms!"

Let's get into the interview! 

1. How did you find out about Elemental Studios?

Zoe: "I was introduced to Elemental Studios by a friend. We went to a few classes together after promising each other we would start going consistently. She ended up only going a few times a week while I continued to go every week!"

2. What was your first class at Elemental Studios, and what was that experience like for you?

Zoe: "My first class was the open level heels class by Serina in September of 2024. I was extremely intimidated and absolutely lost. She ended up recommending the beginner class to me on Wednesday, which helped me to learn the art of heels dancing and grow confidence to eventually move back up to the open level class!"

3. From your videos on Instagram, we see that you dance with such grace, power, confidence, and incredible performance. What advice would you want to give a new person who wants to explore more of those qualities in their own dancing?

Zoe: "Not many people know this about me, but I have alopecia and lose my hair! It has kept me from feeling confident for so long, but eventually I learned to embrace what makes me different and grow different confidence based on what I do not have. Once you learn to love something about yourself that one point tore you down, it completely flips your world!"

4. What do you look forward to the most when you come to Elemental Studios?

Zoe: "I have been to plenty of dance studios that have created a competitive culture. It causes drama and keeps you from forming any real connection with your classmates. What I love about Elemental is that you can feel so connected to everyone and watch them grow into their best selves without feeling envious of them. It makes me happy to have found a community like that, and I truly don't think I could have grown as much as I have."

5. What has been your favorite class or classes so far that you have taken, and who teaches the class/classes?

Zoe: "Of course, my favorite class is heels with Serina! She is an amazing instructor, and while I am growing as a dancer, it is fun to watch her grow as an instructor. That doesn't mean I don't like to catch other classes from time to time!"

6. How did you start your dance journey?

Zoe: "I started dancing at eight years old. I danced for a few years until I quit to start other hobbies. I then decided to join my high school dance team! Huge mistake...my teammates and coaches were complete mean girls. In the beginning, I was growing very quickly as a dancer. At the end though, I had completely become a shell of a person from the relentless bullying. It affected everything in my life and I quit after a year and a half. I thought I would never dance again but after 4 years, I found Elemental!"

7. You recently collaborated with Serina for a performance heels class. What do you think is the most important thing when giving that strong performance quality in a heels choreo?

Zoe: "The key to looking like you own the stage is FEELING like you own the stage. Like every spotlight is on you, and everyone is excited to see what your next move is. What is hard learning is to not be scared by that image but to instead be empowered by it. It's all exciting and terrifying at the same time!"

8. Do you have any hobbies/interests outside of dance?

Zoe: "I love to rave outside of dancing! I know that doesn't seem like much of a hobby, but it's a community that has helped me shape who I am. Going to shows with amazing people and meeting people from different types of backgrounds is such a beautiful thing."

9. What do you think is something you learned from dance that you can apply to outside of the studio?

Zoe: "Dance is something that we use in everyday life, and we don't even realize it. Being aware of your body is such an important thing, and helps you to grow strength to live your life to the fullest. It keeps you healthy and makes your body feel good!"

10. Where can people find you on your socials?

Zoe: "My Instagram is @zoejane.555. :)"

Thank you Zoe for interviewing with me today, I really enjoyed getting to know you and hearing about your dance journey, and how you have showcased your beauty and confidence through dance. Make sure to follow Zoe on her Instagram and say hi to her if you happen to be in heels class or hanging out at the studio!