Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Shapero.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. I have been dancing since the day I could walk. I remember attending my cousin’s dance competitions when I was young and dreamed of being on stage. I begged my mom to put me in dance classes so I could do what they did.
At age 5, I started training in ballet, jazz, modern, and hip hop at studios. Eventually, I competed internationally with my dance studio until age 18. I always had a strong love for creating. I would create choreography and teach it to my friends for talent shows and to perform for our friends. I always envisioned myself choreographing for major artist like *NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, and Christina Aguilera (my favorites at the time). My friends even gave me the “most likely to choreograph for *NSYNC” award at our studio. After high school, I went on to study at Central Michigan University where I continued my training with Orchesis Dance Company. I went on to be co-director of the company for two years before graduating with a degree in fashion design and advertising. Although I love fashion and art, my desire to dance and create would not leave my mind. I decided to drop everything and move to Los Angeles to pursue my true passion which is choreographing, directing, and dancing. Since moving here in 2011, I have had the honor of working with artists such as Green Day, Backstreet Boys, Pharrell Williams, Frank Ocean, U2, Andy Grammer, etc., and credits such as Facebook, ABC, Family, Toyota, Keeping up with the Kardashians Etc. At the same time, I continue studying under many talented and renowned teachers to evolve and grow my craft.
I also consistently present my own choreographed work in live shows such as Carnival Choreographers Ball, Jete, etc. I currently teach at Debbie Reynolds Legacy Studios. I have been able to teach as well at Millennium Dance Complex, Studio 68 London, Black Studio Mexico, IDA Hollywood. In 2017 decided to start my own dance company and create my live dance show called Tal Dance Experience. My show debuted In March 2017. Even though it seems like this life comes easy to some, I have worked tirelessly and relentlessly to prove myself and my artwork. And I continue to work every day towards my dream. I am and will continue to be a director and choreographer, I will live my dream and continue to travel, teach, and hopefully inspire the younger generation to follow their hearts. Even though odds were against me, this young girl, by herself, moving to a city alone far from anyone she knows to conquer her dreams. It is possible. And I feel so lucky every day that I still get to fight for what I love.
Great, 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?
No, it has definitely not been a smooth road. A big struggle for me was accepting my truth and identity. For so long, I felt like I had to fit in a mold that was created for me. I thought I needed to be like everyone else. I knew what I wanted from the beginning, but I didn’t understand how to have the strength to accept that I am different from the cookie cutter mold. I know now, it is okay to want different things. Not everyone needs to be a backup dancer, or work for Disney. It’s okay to be yourself and follow what makes you the most happy! (And if it’s those two things, that’s great too!)
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I am my own business I guess. I am a choreographer, teacher, and creative director. I specialize mostly in contemporary dance and jazz. I am very proud of the show I created (TAL Dance Experience). All original music, costumes, choreography, concept. That was the hardest and most fulfilling thing I have done in my career so far. But I have so many things to be proud of. I love to travel and teach and create as well. I love storytelling. If I can inspire a student to tell a story while they are dancing, I feel like I have done my job.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being true, real, honest, and constant/ persistent. Never give up. Hard work always perseveres.
Contact Info:
- Address: I teach at Debbie Renolds Legacy Studios every Saturday morning.
11401 Chandler Blvd. LA CA 91606 - Email: [email protected]
Image Credit:
Lothar Hercher, Wes Klain, Lee Gumbs
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