Tell us a little bit about yourself :)
I am a 23 years old dancer living in Lyon, born and raised in Paris. I like all the arts in general, but I have a passion for dancing and travelling.
I'm a professional dancer and I teach classes too.
How did you get introduced to dancing?
My mom danced when she was young so I always wanted to dance as well. I started with rhythmic gymnastics at the age of 5 but something was missing. Every day I was playing music and dancing to it in my house. So I stopped rhythmic gymnastics and when I was 8 years old my mom registered me for my first modern dance class. The classes proved me that dancing truly is my passion. I have tried many styles including ballet, contemporary, hip hop, etc.
After that, I moved to another city to go to a dance school where I was dancing every day and doing several shows as well.
Now I have my dance degree and the best thing is that I am teaching and sharing with others what I know.
When did dancing get “serious”?
I've always been passionate about dancing and ever since I began it’s been a way of life, the liberty to express myself and clearly an obsession. If I'm not dancing throughout my day, I'm not feeling good.
I had an opportunity to go to New York and dance with great choreographers and take classes in the greatest schools. It was such a great experience and really inspiring to see how it was in a different country. This really motivated me and changed my mind about the dance.
Can you share your biggest challenges ?
That would be trusting in myself and finding what I do well. I would often question myself and think I was not enough, but dance helped me gain confidence and overcome that self consciousness. My first solo was very stressful, but I managed to overcome the fear of stage.
How do you handle pressure?
Probably every dancer feels the pressure but you have to find the way that works for you to overcome it. It's for you that you dance. When the pressure is too strong, I do some breathing exercises or yoga sessions. I can also count on the support of family, friends and the joy that I find once on stage.
Can you share your thoughts on self consciousness?
It takes time and still today the stress is really strong at times but it is a positive stress. I often practice yoga to control my breathing. Before going on stage I visualize my steps and this really helps me reduce stress.
What was your most embarrassing moment (in regards to your dance of course ;)
One day on stage I had a big memory gap, I had no more steps I improvised all by myself and I had the impression that everyone was looking at me and judging. But, once I was out, everyone told me that I was great.
How did dancing influence your life in other ways?
Initially people did not understand why I danced so much, however now they do know it is my passion. I am very careful what I eat and I have more confidence in myself. I have made fabulous encounters. I learned a lot about nutrition and about the body.
What does your daily routine look like ?
I train every day except Sunday, I do not take classes but I stretch. I stretch every morning and dance in the afternoon and evening. Approximately 5 hours per day but it can be more when I have representation and rehearsal.
And what about your flexibility training ? Where does that fit in ?
It is very important to stretch to prevent aches and to keep its flexibility. I use a lot of stretching band. I stretch a little every day by varying the exercises and durations in the stretch. It is no use staying too long in a stretch but it is necessary to concentrate on his breathing which will help to go even further.
What keeps you motivated?
Being able to express myself through dancing is my primary motivation. I keep this motivation by sharing with others and loving what I do, finding that freedom of the body. I try to enjoy every move as much as possible.
Many choreographers and dancers inspire me, the account of @nycdanceproject offers great photos.
What are your future plans/goals/dreams?
My future plan is to continue to take pleasure in dancing. I would like to integrate a major company, dance and travel around the world.
Any tips for passionate people starting out dancing?
I would say if you are motivated you can achieve anything. If you really want it, all is possible. Always stay focused and do not give up. Sometimes there will be failures, but from them you learn the most.
Do not forget to stretch, this is very important to keep a body safe from injuries. I would not change anything, I am happy with what I have done, I take all the opportunities given to me.
Anything else?
The most important thing is to love what you do. Do not regret and never give up!
Anything you’d like to share?
Don't hesitate to follow me on my Instagram, I post dance pictures.
- Instagram :@l_danse
- Facebook :Léa Debressy