Today we’d like to introduce you to Nico O’Connor.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up in the Bay Area. Born in Redwood City, son of 2 Nicaraguan parents, my father had some Irish in him as well and we carried that with our last name. I was surrounded with music culture food and love and lots of siblings. Since I can remember, I loved music and dancing, it was in my blood, my grandmother would be cleaning or doing laundry and I’d be dancing to some merengue or salsa that she’d be playing and I didn’t even know what I was doing. That love for music and dance continued into the MTV era, learning dance moves from my tv screen and loved watching musical numbers in musicals like little shop of horrors or hello dolly. It wasn’t until high school that I first encountered structured dance training within the Latino club, learning Folklorico which is Mexican folk dancing. I then danced for a friend of mine as she used to sing around town and her choreographer took me under her wing letting me take classes for free in Downtown Antioch and then my love for dance was in full force. Dancing in several companies and studios, one being the non-profit worldwide organization Culture Shock Oakland. Once out of high school, I held a full-time position in the public health center for the county, I was admin assistant for health care for the homeless. It kept me financially stable but I wasn’t happy I was bored out of my mind and all I could think about is dance and of one day performing with an artist or music video or performance. Two of my dance peers were going to be moving down to LA to Pursue their dance careers and I jumped at the opportunity knowing that I have outgrown the bay and wanted more of a challenge a push to see where I stand against the professionals. Fast forward 13 years later and I’ve worked with artists like Pink, Britney Spears, KGrahamham, Prima J, the Rock, Lin Manuel, Kristen Bell, Don Cheadle. Recently my choreography was featured on Ellen on the dancers dancing Keala settle singing “This is me” from the Greatest Showman soundtrack. I am faculty to the entertainment industries most noteable dance training establishments Millennium Dance Complex and Edge performing arts center and have traveled around the world to teach and choreograph for several companies. I have built my brand from the bottom up all on my own, completely living off my dance career and there are plenty more things to do, no chance
Has it been a smooth road?
No. Self doubt, self consciousness, being a starving artist, holding down crummy part time jobs, having people take advantage of your time and talent, depression, being out here on my own. Meeting a lot of “fake” people who aren’t genuine with their friendships. Trying to get dance jobs, become more of a popular teacher.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Dance Instructor / Choreographer – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I teach Jazz funk classes in LA and choreograph for stage productions, artists, movies, commercials and various other projects.
I’m known for my musicality and dynamics – and high energy teaching method. I’m most proud of getting my choreography on the Ellen Show and on Brintnets Spears femme fetale tour.
What sets me apart is my teaching approach, it’s clear and to the point but delivered with love. It’s about having fun but also being challenged enough to grow.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Like – there’s so much to do, so much to see, there’s endless possibilities as to what you can become out in LA. You never know who you will be meeting and what opportunities are right around the corner.
Least like – it’s expensive as an artist, rent prices have gone up, lots of gentrification going on and so much traffic.
Pricing:
- Edge Performing Arts Center single class $15
- Millennium Dance Complex single class $16
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/nico_oconnor
- Facebook: Www.facebook.com/nicooconnor
- Twitter: Www.twitter.com/imnico_oconnor
- Other: www.edgepac.com www.millenniumdancecomplex.com
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
