Conversations with Andrea-liis Mustkikkas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea-liis Mustkikkas

Andrea-Liis, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a professional dancer from Estonia. I’ve always been a very artistic person. As a little kid I used to be obsessed with music, dancing behind closed doors in my room and watching music videos from YouTube. At a young age I never thought that I would actually want to become a dancer but dance always brought me so much joy. My parents decided to put me into dance class when I went to first grade. I had an amazing group of dance friends but when they all decided to quit I went with the flow and stopped dancing for many years. I discovered dance again in high school. I trained in many different styles like hiphop, jazz, cheerleading, heels, commercial etc and I found my way back to dancing. I had so much passion for dance and I started taking dance very seriously. I was putting all my time and money into training. I remember how I used to run to the dance studio after school to teach my kids groups, take dance classes and train alone at the studio til midnight. I started getting more recognition from my dance teachers, performing on stages, dancing in music videos and working with different artists in my home country Estonia and I realised that maybe this could really be my career. I loved being on stage so much and wanted my everyday to be like this. Sadly there are not many opportunities for professional dancers in Estonia so I saved all my money from teaching and performing to travel and learn from the best choreographers and teachers around the world. Seeing the dance industry and the level of dancers outside of Estonia was so inspiring and eye-opening for me. I wanted to become as good as them and even better. My dreams started to get bigger and Estonia didn’t have enough to offer for me anymore. After high school I wanted to take a bigger step towards my goals and dreams. I found a program that led me to New York City. I didn’t even think twice. I packed my two suitcases and started my journey in USA and I feel like it was the best decision that I’ve made in my life. I’ve grown and learned so much here and I’m so excited to experience more.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Growing up in Estonia where dancing is not always taken as a serious career path has definitely been a challenge for me. I´ve been told many times that professional dancing is not a real job and I should pick another career for myself. It has definitely made me question myself but it has never stopped me from believing in myself. I’m a very hard-working person and I don´t settle for less. Dance is my biggest passion, it just lights up something inside me and I know that this is my purpose in life and I would give everything to achieve my goals and dreams.

I’m proud of myself for always finding a way to grow and better myself. Even if Estonia doesn’t have many opportunities for dancers to train and work I’ve never let that stop me. Spending hours at the dance studio training alone and working to earn enough money to afford travelling has been draining for sure but I feel like if you really want something in life you will always find a way to work towards it. Excuses are not going to lead you closer to your dreams.

I’m very grateful to have amazing friends and mentors who believe in me and always make want to become a better version of myself. It has definitely not been easy to move to the other side of the world, leave all my friends and family and start all over again in a new country without knowing what the future holds but I know that it will all be worth it. Dance industry itself is a though industry especially here in USA but I`m thankful to have amazing people around me who will always be there for me whatever struggles I’m facing.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a professional dancer and choreographer. I’ve trained in many different dance styles but I enjoy commercial dance the most especially dancing on heels. I’ve danced and choreographed for different artists in music videos, live performances, award shows and live television. I’ve danced in commercials and campaigns and taught many dance classes and workshops.

I started working as a dancer when I was 16 years old and I can say that I’m proud of myself for getting that far at a young age. I’ve never let fear stop me from taking the opportunity. I remember my second Estonian Music Awards show where I was asked to be the main choreographer for an artist. I remember being so scared to say ,,yes“to this opportunity because it is one of the biggest shows in Estonia which also appears on live television. I had never choreographed such a big performance before on this big of a stage with cameras on every corner but I couldn’t let this opportunity pass by. It ended up being one of the best performances of mine so far and I got such an amazing feedback from the artist, her manager and the production crew.

I feel like training in different styles has helped me a lot to figure out my own personal style. I always bring a lot of passion, feminine energy and performance quality into my dancing and It definitely sets me apart from others. I also put a lot of work into my appearance because personally I think that it is as important as physical skills for professional dancers and I always make sure I look my best when I’m on the job, class or a rehearsal. I love experimenting with my outfits, makeup and hair and I get a lot of inspiration from other dancers and artists. The work you put into your personal style and appearance can help you a lot to stand out from others.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’m very happy and proud how far I’ve gotten in my career. I feel like stage is my place and my dream is to work with big artists one day. I’m taking small steps every day to get closer to my goals and I hope to get signed with a dance agency one day.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrea.liis/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009441507253

Image Credits
Mari Makarov
Harry Tiits
Capturecreative.inc
Martin Kosseson