Miss Lauren has been a part of the team for an amazing 10 years - joining way back in 2012 when we first began classes. I think you will agree it is time that we have a little chat with Miss Lauren to find out more about her dance journey, why she began teaching, and what she loves to do outside the dance studio!
When and why did you begin your dancing journey?
I started when I was around 2.5 years old after my mum took me to our local dance class. Out of all the hobbies and clubs I attended, this was the only one I always went back to. I loved to dance and made many friends that I grew up with throughout my time dancing at these classes.
How many styles of dance have you done and which would you say is your favourite?
I have done many styles throughout my time dancing however, the main three styles were Hip-Hop, Ballet and Tap. I also took classes in Jazz and Lyrical but was never as serious about these styles of dance.
My favourite style as a dancer was definitely Hip-Hop, however this has changed to Ballet since I began teaching with babyballet Lanarkshire Central and Tap 2 Pointe.
Was there someone who inspired you to dance?
My mum was definitely my biggest inspiration to dance growing up. On those days where I wanted to give up she motivated me to keep going and I am so glad I did. 10 years later I am now teaching dance and love every minute of it.
What are you most proud of as a dancer?
I am proud of the variety of shows and performances I took part in as a dancer. I never attended competitions or anything like that so these shows gave me the chance to showcase my dancing. As I got older I loved helping out in the shows and believe this was an insight into what was to come.
Following on from that…Why did you begin teaching at just the age of 12?
My younger sister attended the first ever babyballet class Miss Charlotte did and it was my mum who suggested that I come along and offer my help in the babyballet classes. I was never someone who loved school or knew exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up, but I knew I loved to dance and this gave me something to do.
Fast forward 10 years, I am now teaching my own babyballet classes and joined the team at Miss Charlotte's senior school - Tap 2 Pointe!
So, What do you love about teaching?
I really love meeting all of the children and watching their dance journey and progression throughout the years. I especially loved when I first began teaching at T2P as I got to see some of the children I had first taught in babyballet. It is always nice to know that they loved dancing so much they continued into the senior school.
What would you say to someone else considering teaching dance?
As a young dancer I was always very shy and quiet and taking that jump into teaching has made me much more confident. If you are passionate about dance you will love teaching. It’s not like an office 9-5 job - it is fun, interactive and watching the dancers grow and progress because of you is very rewarding.
What has been your favourite memory as a team member?
I loved taking part in shows as a dancer but it is equally as enjoyable as a teacher. The Tap 2 Pointe and babyballet shows have been my favourite memories. Watching the dancers take to the stage, seeing how proud their parents are and knowing I played a hand in making it all happen is a great feeling.
I am really looking forward to the show this May as this is the first time the dancers will be performing my own choreography.
What do you get up to when you aren’t in the studio?
I am always busy when I am not teaching my babyballet and Tap 2 Pointe classes. I have a part-time position at Wetherspoon’s as well as a Social Media Internship. When I am not working I love to spend time with my dog or working out at the gym. Although I do not dance anymore I still like to keep fit!
Thank you to Miss Lauren for sitting down with us to conduct this interview! We hope you enjoyed finding out more about Miss Lauren, we sure did!…. Who would you like to hear from next?
