Manda Johnson has been dancing for 2 years and came to the very first Club Creationz session in 2007. She now spends her summer working in the Mediterrean dancing for DJ's such as Judge Jules, Dave Pearce and Pete Tong. But this is not her full time job and is something Manda does for fun, rather than for the pay.
“I always loved dancing and I remember going out to clubs and watching the dancers on stage. I never thought I would be up there myself – but little by little I’ve managed to learn more and more and now I can work freelance whenever I want. I spent last summer during a sabbatical dancing in Ibiza for world famous DJ’s which was a fantastic experience.”
So how did Manda get into podium dancing? “ I started dancing late, when I was about 21,” she says, “At first I went to street dance classes, which really helped me to learn how to move, how choreography works, and feel more comfortable dancing. I saw an advert in the local paper for nightclub dancers, and I really wanted to apply, but dancing in nightclubs is different to dancing in class because you have to make the moves up on the spot.”
Wanting some extra help with this freestyle element, Manda enrolled in Club Creationz, a half day course for beginners which teaches tricks and tips for all aspiring podium dancers.
“The course was great, because it made me realise that it’s not as hard as it looks, and that you can do very simple beginners moves and still make a performance look energised and professional. I had to practice quite a bit for my first audition, and I was really nervous, but I couldn’t believe it when I got the job!”
Manda worked in a local nightclub each Friday night for 4 months, and says she learnt a lot of her skills on the jobs, either from other dancers, or classes she was doing during the week. After several months, she felt confident enough to try her luck working abroad.
“Auditions can be really daunting”, she says, “but you have to learn to push your own limits and step out of your comfort zone. It’s one of the reasons I love dancing. It constantly challenges me to be better, to do things I am afraid of and to improve. Plus – it’s a great way to stay in shape and get paid for being holiday!”
So what tips does Manda have for other people who want to learn to podium dance?
1. Go to dance class – any dance class, and learn as many moves in a variety of styles as you can. Don’t stop going when you get work, more classes makes you more versatile
2. Don’t be afraid of auditions – they horrible but you have to do them, and each one is good practice for the next so go to as many as you want!
3. Always check out the club before you accept a job. Make sure the work is as described, that your contract is set out clearly and you know your pay and when to expect it
4. Make sure you keep in shape and present yourself well. Don’t turn up late and remember you are an advert for the club so be smiley and friendly.
5. Have fun! This is a great job and can be very rewarding. Just go for it!
Club Creationz will be running on April 26th 12pm-2pm in Central London. Book a place now at www.creationdance.co.uk
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