Meet Monica Polk

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Polk.

Monica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Well, I’ve been dancing for as long as I can remember, but I didn’t take my first class until I was ten years old. My mom was a dancer so she never forced me to do it, she just let me fall in love with it naturally. In 2005 I joined Future Shock DC in its first season. I was one of the youngest on the team, everyone was 5-7 years older than me, so those first few years were really a push for me because I had to start from scratch. My mom would spend hours with me in the basement helping me with the steps because I was all heart with no pick-up. When I turned 16, I began choreographing and teaching, and eventually started my own company “Piernas Locas Project”. Having something of my own made me realize that this was what I truly wanted to pursue. I began training with intention and really honing in on my craft. I can’t even count the number of hours I spent freestyling and choreographing in the basement. By the time I decided to leave to DMV and move to LA, I had already mapped out my game plan. Teaching is where my heart is, so once I was settled in LA, I started renting out space to have my own classes. I wasn’t expecting to teach at an official studio for atleast another year or two, but three months in I got my first Weekly slot. From there I just kept pushing myself, shooting my shot for any and everything I wanted to achieve. I am blessed to say that one year in, I have achieved almost all of my 3-year goals career-wise.

Has it been a smooth road?
There have definitely been trying times. Like any passion, there are times when you don’t feel inspired or motivated by what’s around you. Dealing with loss, financial obstacles, and homesickness is enough to make anyone feel unmotivated to create. I have battled through numerous injuries, some that still effect me to this day.

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I am a professional Teacher, Choreographer, and Dancer. I specialize in Hip-Hop, funk styles, and club styles. My goal as an educator is to spread knowledge and history while also offering a safe space for dancers and creatives to open themselves up emotionally. I am most proud of the growth of my students on both the east and west coast that are now stepping out on their own and continuing the flow of educating the next generation.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I like the accessibility and the convenience. I can literally walk 5 minutes in any direction and find something to do. I also love the way the lights and palm trees look while driving at night. One thing that I don’t like is the lack of shelters and housing for the homeless, I feel like there should be more resources available to them.

Contact Info:

• Email: monica.polk95@gmail.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/locodp
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/user/mopo995

Image Credit:
Dallas Trill, Kaelan Jones

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