To Your Health November, 2007 (Vol. 01, Issue 11) |
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There are thousands of people watching your show every night. What advice do you have for someone who wants to follow in your footsteps and be a dancer, performer or artist?
Commit to training and be versatile. More versatility means more opportunity. Research your auditions. One time, I auditioned for a musical chorus. Unexpectedly, I was asked to read for the leading role. I had never seen the musical! Needless to say, I blew it. It was a valuable lesson though. You never know what can happen, so always be prepared!
The dance/entertainment field is difficult because there's a lot of discrimination; you are chosen often for your looks, height, gender, race or weight rather than just your ability. Those factors don't play a role in most other fields. Know there are some things you can change, and some things you can't change. Try not to take it personally.
I'm a firm believer in perseverance. There's a place for everyone. You must have faith, get past your fear and go for it. You may get a lot of no's in this career, but I always felt that every no would get me closer to a yes. My mom always told me "no regrets." You just have to go through that door and if they say no, then you know and can move on. There's no looking back on your life and saying, "I wonder what would've happened if I had only tried."
Now that the show is coming to an end, what does that mean for you?
This job has been an unbelievable privilege and blessing. Celine Dion is an amazing woman to work for. I've been in a lot of shows and by far, this job has surpassed them in terms of how we're treated, the health services we receive, the schedule and the benefits. For example, in the dance world, you often don't get health insurance or dental insurance. They really take care of us here.
The "feeling" we have here is so unique. We've known each other for about five years now. We all trained in Belgium together - without our families and friends; it was just us. So we really bonded as a family. When the show closes, it's going to be difficult. Everyone will scatter to different parts of the world to find work. I'm married and closer to the end of my career. I may do more dance jobs, but I'll eventually transition to having a family. I'll see what God has planned for me. I believe dance will always be part of my life, but I am open to His will and I have faith ... if it happens, it happens.
What would you say to people who are thinking about improving their health and lifestyle?
When it comes to your physical health, commit to making one positive change. Whether it's through diet, exercise, rest, quitting smoking, etc., pick one thing to change, so you are not overwhelmed. Then truly commit. I believe once you start seeing and/or feeling the positive results of treating your body well, it will motivate you to make more positive changes.
Realize though, that for a change to last, it has to be a lifestyle change - so make changes based on your interests and personal tastes. For example, if you need to get more exercise and you love nature, hiking and biking outdoors may be easier than committing to an aerobics class.
On the other hand, experiment! Be adventurous and try new activities. You may find you have hidden talents in new, unexpected areas. Also, if you find a certain activity isn't for you, don't just give up on exercise altogether. There are so many other things you can do to improve your fitness level, whether it's gardening outside, taking a walk or ballroom dancing. Try new foods and healthy recipes. You may discover interesting ways to add more fruits, vegetables and nutrients to your diet. As you continue to work toward a mind-body-spirit connection and find fulfillment in each area, you will discover a true sense of wellness in your life.