Today we’d like to introduce you to Athena Costello.
Hi Athena, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Born and raised in Sydney Australia I knew at a young age that dance and performing would be my life passion. At 16 years of age, I visited New York City with my family. I knew then that this is where I wanted my future to be.
It was New York’s energy and drive that inspired me. I was eager to find a way to come and live in the city.
I subsequently moved to New York City at the age of 19 to study dance at Steps on Broadway Conservatory.
The two year conservatory program opened my eyes to the industry and enriched my dance experience and education immensely.
I am very grateful for the Steps Conservatory and Mindy Jackson for directing such an amazing and versatile programme. Also to have been taught by so many prestigious choreographers and teachers in NYC.
It has offered me so many opportunities for me to work with choreographers such as Terk Lewis where I was lucky enough to perform his amazing choreography at the Bryant Park Picnic summer series, June 2023.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I first moved to New York City, I went through an adjusting period. I first moved in January and it freezing! I was living in times square in an apartment the size of a shoebox.Getting use to living alone at 19 was easier than I thought since I was always independent back in Australia.
The struggles I faced were to do with navigating my groove around New York. The subways took a while of getting used to, and also not knowing anyone before meeting beautiful people in my programme. My grandmother passed away while I was over here, which was very hard but I know she was very proud of me for moving at such a young age.
Also, dealing with heartbreak in New York is not easy.
At this point, I am 23 and I am proud of sticking it out. This city can be tough to slow down and I take each day the best I can and just remind myself how grateful I am to have this opportunity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a passionate dancer and performer. I specialize in musical theatre, Jazz and Contemporary styles. I was a part of Performing at the Bryant Park Summer Dance Picnic Series in June,2023. I am very grateful for this opportunity and for Terk Lewis who choreographed the performance. Also my parents were in the audience which was a bonus! I am proud of how I haven’t given up and my resilience has led to experiencing a beautiful dance community here in New York and a life here. I am very hardworking and I always get up and go, no matter what with an open mind and heart.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Yes, I was in the middle of studying at Steps and we were told we weren’t opening up and that dance was closed until further notice. It really put in perspective how much I wanted to dance and perform when it was taken away from me. I was always passionate but I never thought this would have happened to the arts and the uncertainty of not knowing if I will ever be able to dance on stage again.
Also how much we connect with humans on a daily basis and how important it is to be present in the moment and enjoy the little things.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.
athenacostello.com/ - Instagram: athenacostello_
- Facebook: Athena Costello
- Linkedin: Athenacostello
- Youtube: Athena Costello
Image Credits
David Cortes Kasai.nyc Jaqlin Medlock
