MEET THE STAFF
HOANG DANG
I was a dance team leader for my high school teams (1080p), trained for about a year on collegiate level (PAC Modern), and taught in a studio for 6-7 years (Believe & Dance, but do feel free to omit this lol). Currently, I occasionally keep up my training through technique/choreo workshops and freestyle events. Whacking, popping, and house are my go-to dance styles. When I teach, I aim to give the right amount of energy to my students so they are capable of capturing the audience when on stage.
What’s a favorite memory from the early part of your career (particularly with the age groups you currently teach)?
I used to encourage my students to choreograph their own original dances to songs of their choice, and would have a showcase where they can perform in front of the studio community. It was gratifying to see these young kids be so nervous, yet end up dishing out the sassiest and most energetic choreos (often in front of their parents). This is a fond memory of mine.
Can you share a small story about what inspired you to pursue dance?
Watching America's Best Dance Crew on TV was one of my first exposures to collegiate/competitive dance, particularly Kaba Modern. From there, I spent a lot of days in my backyard pretending I could dance and freestyle, until the opportunity to join a team came my way. That's when it all started coming together.
Who has been a significant figure in your dance journey (mentor, teacher, etc.)?
My early dance friends (high school, college) who inspired me to move through casual dance sessions we would have at any clear, danceable spot we could find (which we were often kicked out of due to trespassing). Nowadays, I draw inspiration from dancers I've met at freestyle events, who often show tons of originality and style.
What advice would you give to young dancers or to yourself when you first started?
Dance will be less fun somedays, especially when you practice with a lot of repetition; sometimes it'll take weeks or months before you show progress. Mastery requires a lot of repetition, but it needs even more patience. Give yourself compassion as you grow to be the dancer you want to be.
What’s been the biggest challenge you've faced in your dance career, and how did you overcome it?
Sometimes you may not get along with your fellow classmates/teammates, or you may feel like you don't belong. Learning to be cordial and respectful was helpful in overcoming this. With persistence, you'll end up carving out your own space to claim as yours.
///OUR TEAM
Our instructors are all professionally trained dancers who are committed to sharing their expertise and skills with you! Using their background knowledge of dance fundamentals and experience in professional performances and competitions, our instructors lead by example and passion, helping dancers grow into their potential.
