Today we’d like to introduce you to Whitney Bezzant.
Whitney, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am a choreographer/professional backup dancer. I grew up in Cedar Hills, Utah. I started dancing at the age of three, competing at the age of five and moved to LA nine years ago to pursue my dreams of being on every big stage possible. I have had many ups and downs on my journey but have had so many life-changing moments on some of the biggest stages. My quick resume rundown goes like this. I have danced behind artists such as: Jennifer Lopez, Prince, Cardi B, Kanye West, Big Sean, Nick Jonas, and more. Some of the stages/shows I’ve danced on include: American Music Awards, Billboard Awards, The Grammys, Disney’s “High School Musical” franchise, MTV Movie Awards, Latin Billboard Awards, Disney’s “Holiday Special”, Ellen, Derek & Julianne Hough’s “MOVE LIVE” Tour. My Biggest contract was the three years “Jennifer Lopez: ALL I HAVE” residency in Las Vegas. Throughout all of these dance jobs (and even before I moved to LA) I have always had a strong love for teaching and choreographing for the next generation. I currently direct a training program for a major dance convention that travels the country called: VELOCITY Dance Convention. I have the incredible opportunity to teach, as a faculty member, to large groups of dancers ranging in all ages from 4-19+ and LOVE it!
As a dancer, there is usually a look/body type that comes to mind and I never naturally had that so from a young age, I decided that because I cannot physically change the body I have I will train harder than anyone in the room. I knew my path would not be easy, and it wasn’t, but damn it’s been worth it! LA has really given me some incredible career moments but more importantly, it’s given me the ability to see that anything is possible.
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?
So many… and might be too long to count, but the pros outweigh them by a long shot.
Body Image issues being in a career that seems to be so focused on body.
The competitiveness. There are thousands of dancers going for a handful of dance jobs.
Having close friends book jobs while you continue to get “No’s” at every audition.
The struggle with job security. I had many moments in the beginning of my career that one month would be amazing and would be followed by months of absolutely nothing. The “gig” mentality is very hard when you’re just starting out.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
“Whitney Bezzant” is, I guess you could say, the brand. It’s me, being me and being able to make a full career out of it. I always dreamed about the day where I could make my own calendar, have the ability to choose where my work takes me, and thankfully be able to have money in a savings account.
I pride myself on creating rehearsal space that is welcoming to all, challenging, and fun. I love to work hard and surround myself with people that like to do the same. I get to train kids all across the country and connect with so many incredible people from everywhere.
I love what I do and feel grateful to have so many amazing clients that allow me to be creative and call it work.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Hmmm… I don’t remember the last time I was asked this and I love it. It’s more of a childhood tradition than one specific moment. Every Christmas eve me, my older brother and younger sister would all stay up and play video games waiting to hear any movement outside of the bedroom door. Between Mario Kart, Diddy Kong Racing, Halo, and many games in between, it was our favorite thing we did together all year long.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @wbezz
Image Credit:
Cory Jones
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