Today we’d like to introduce you to JoJo Carmichael.
Hi JoJo, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I began dancing at the age of 4. My parents found a local dance studio that became my second home for the next 14 years of my life. At my dance studio I trained in multiple styles including ballet, jazz, and tap to name a few. I also received training throughout the convention competition circuit as I grew up doing competitions as well. I graduated in 2018 and then went on to Pace University, where I obtained my BFA in Commercial Dance with a minor in Arts and Entertainment Management. My training in college prepared me for the professional industry, and I am so appreciative of the training, support, and freedom to find myself as a human and artist during my time there. While in college I signed with my agency which allowed me to somewhat have a foot in the door once I graduated. From there, I was fortunate to go to auditions and book dream jobs.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
College was honestly a little bumpy starting off. I just had to find myself. I’m originally from Alabama and made the big move to New York without knowing anyone or having any connections, so everything felt very foreign. On top of that, the commercial dance program is very rigorous, which took some getting used to. Artistically, I felt lost and questioned if dance was what I should be doing. College was where I experienced the most self-doubt, but I stayed true to the plan and did my best to give every day my all and trust the process.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a professional dancer based in New York. Some of my most recent jobs include the Radio City Rockettes and MJ the Musical 1st National Tour. Something that I am proud of is my versatility. I also love my desire to be as versatile as possible. Different styles excite me, and I make it appoint to train in as many different styles as I can. My versatility has allowed me to be able to do different jobs such as the Rockettes and MJ the Musical which are both great shows but are also very different in style.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I’m not really a believer of luck. Growing up my dad used to always tell my brother and I, “If you do the work the results will come.” This is something that I have always carried with me through life and my career. I believe that if you do the work, it will always pay off. It may not always pay off how you envisioned it, but you will reap the benefits of your work.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jojo_carmichael99/
Image Credits
Justin Patterson
Em Katz
