It's easy for an expert to tell you what they're great at.
Want to know what's difficult?
Having an expert tell you something they've been afraid of.
That's what makes Gabriela Young, and this interview, so special. As a special lead up to the District Showcase on September 23rd and 24th, Gabriela fielded questions we've asked to other members of the judging panel, but the way that she answered them make this an important read, showcase or not, for a dancer of any experience level.
AML: Without giving away too many secrets, what are some of the first things you look for when you're watching a freestyle at an event like this?
GY: My top three are: Posture, Timing, and Use of Legs.
AML: When you were competing professionally, what were the one or two items you would always forget to pack?
GY: Safety pins and a sewing kit.
AML: Okay, let's talk event preparation. Everyone wants to do whatever they can to improve their dancing in some way by the Showcase. What are some tips you'd recommend for people that want to prepare the best way possible?
GY: Dancing and preparing for an event is a journey - never forget that. Since this event is getting close, I would say with at three weeks out - don't change any of the choreography. Take a coaching to get a third eye. It can give you insight into what you should concentrate on at the event, and do as many rehearsals as possible without burning out.
One week out, dance full out on all of your lessons like you are at the showcase, and - for goodness sake - have fun doing it.
AML: What are a few things you've found that are really effective for dealing with pre-dance nerves?
GY: Start visualizing how you want to feel. See yourself as calm, cool, and collected on the floor, off the floor, your entrances, and exits. Breathing deeply is a way to quiet the nervous system - yogi style.
When my students got restless, I would ask them to run around the hotel for three minutes and come back. Some people say that one drink also works (just kidding). Everyone is different, so try them all and see what works for you.
AML: There always seems to be a turning point for students, and professionals, when it comes to nerves. Why is it so important to get past that point?
BG: When you cross over from feeling nervous is really the moment we get to see the real you. The fun, sexy, expressive, joyful, wonderful, you.
AML: There are plenty of students who have the capability to participate in an event like this, but they just seem to lack the courage. If you could talk to them right now, what would your message be for them?
GY: I have a personal experience I would like to share with the students. I love going to the beach, mainly because of the ocean. As a child, you couldn't get me out of the water. About 7 years ago, I had a bad experience while swimming and my fear of the ocean kicked in.
I spend the last 7 years looking at the water, sitting on the shore, admiring the ocean from afar.
A few weeks ago, my sister and I were at the beach and she asked me why I wasn't going swimming. I gave her my reasons and she looked at me and said,
"but you love to swim and body surf, don't you think it's time to go in?"
In my head, I was thinking, "I'm too old, it's scary, and I can just enjoy it from here."
I didn't jump in that day, but it planted the seed I needed. I went back to the beach the next day and saw how much fun the children and grown ups were having in the water, and I heard my sister's voice, "don't you think it's time to jump in?"
I walked to the shore, and I let my feet get wet, then my knees, and all the way up to my waist when a big scary wave came and submerged me under the water, and, just like that, I was swimming and body surfing and having the time of my life again.
My advice is - stop all the crazy noise in your head like "I'm too old... it's scary... it's not for me... what if I mess up... I'm not good enough".
If dancing is something you enjoy, come to the showcase and get your feet wet, and the next thing you know, you will be having the time of your life. See you there.
Rapid Fire Questions
1. Your best advice for better Salsa dancing, but in less than 7 words.
GY: Be with the music and enjoy!
2. Favorite song to dance Hustle to.
GY: "Last Dance" by Donna Summer.
3. Your example of a Power Breakfast.
GY: Eggs and coffee.
4. Your favorite thing about working as an Arthur Murray Consultant?
GY: Knowing that I get to share my gift with amazing, like minded, people.
5. You get to rebrand the term "minor dances". What's your new name for them?
GY: "Double Major", or "Club Dances"
6. What's next for Gabriela Young?
GY: TBA
7. If you could star in a nationally televised commercial for this event, what would you say?
GY: You'll have a great time doing something you love with amazing talented people.
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