It's funny to think of dropping out of college, mostly because I'm sure most students at some point or another have fathomed it. Coincidentally, I've already done it.
I started my college career relatively late; I was 21. I spent the years between dancing, running a local company, working odd jobs and was in a time-consuming relationship. A week away from opening my own dance studio, I received a letter of acceptance to CSU, Sacramento. So I closed the studio, cut my losses and started college, mostly because of the sense of obligation to get "educated" from my parents.
Three semesters in and I changed my mind again. Only this time, I wanted to fulfill my dream of going to Los Angeles and become a commercial dancer. In my year-long sabbatical from school I was living my dream; touring with local artists, music videos, reality shows and training under some of the best dancers in the industry. Unfortunately, this lasted only a year because of the guilt and discouragement of my parents to live life as an artist. So back to school I went.
Reflecting on it, I don't regret a thing. If something were to happen where after this semester I would not return to school, i would be back in LA in a heartbeat, this time with more knowledge, maturity and drive.
Although my focus is not only on school, I keep returning because I truly value it, even if it has little relevance to my career choice. The thought is that it well set me apart from the rest one day.
I can in no way say that my life has been a straight path. It's filled with u-turns and pit stops but either way, I know my destination. On a balance between discipline and spontaneity, I'll get there.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
The Philippines
In May of this year, I was lucky enough to travel to the Philippine Islands. My significant other's grandmother passed away, so she needed to be transported back to her homeland. She passed of old age in the beginning of May. Two weeks and a lot of stress later, I was on a 16-hour flight from San Francisco to the city of Manila in a country I knew relatively nothing about to pay homage to a woman I knew less about. But I was honored to say the least. My nerves would have gotten the best of me if I had not taken the recommended dosage of Dramamine-- I hate the idea of flying over an ocean, even more the idea of drowning. The longest flight I was on previous to this one was the hour and 15-minute flight from Sacramento to San Diego, so this was a stretch.
Our flight ran smoothly; I realized I love airplane food and the bathrooms weren't as scary as I imagined, I learned I wasn't going to get sucked down with the waste.
It was surreal landing in a new country and the immediate lack of familiarity was overwhelming. Stepping off the plane into what felt like a sauna with with wet air and beautiful jungle foliage was fascinating. My hair went into an immediate frizz-ball and the smell of exhaust filled my nose. Colorful "tricycles"and other public transportation vehicles called "Jeepneys" took up any and all roadspace, regardless of the lines that defined the lanes on the road. I was in the Philippines!
The first and second week of the trip were completely opposite. The first week was dedicated to honoring Grandma Eufrocina and praying daily for her safe passage to the afterlife. The ceremonies were beautiful and not only shared the respects of the family, but of all the people in the village of Antipolo. The night before her body was walked to the town's ceremony, the local band struck up music in celebration of her life and played in the village streets through the night while everyone, strangers and family alike ate and enjoyed each others' company. It was nothing like I'd ever seen before.
After that week's festivities, and after I got over a mean traveler's cold, the family took to shopping, sight seeing and more eating. One of the most amazing experiences in that second week was the family booking a 60 person bus (that barely fit family members) and taking a drive to the Subic Bay to spend a day on the beach. Yes, the water was clear and even though it rained, we were swimming in 90 degree weather. It was paradise.
To those considering visiting the Philippine Islands; the time there passes slowly, don't bring a jacket and be prepared to be culture shocked!
Overall, the trip was life-changing. Aside from new dresses, shoes, handbags and jewelry, I took home a new perspective of family values. And that's like that credit card commercial says, priceless.
Our flight ran smoothly; I realized I love airplane food and the bathrooms weren't as scary as I imagined, I learned I wasn't going to get sucked down with the waste.
It was surreal landing in a new country and the immediate lack of familiarity was overwhelming. Stepping off the plane into what felt like a sauna with with wet air and beautiful jungle foliage was fascinating. My hair went into an immediate frizz-ball and the smell of exhaust filled my nose. Colorful "tricycles"and other public transportation vehicles called "Jeepneys" took up any and all roadspace, regardless of the lines that defined the lanes on the road. I was in the Philippines!
The first and second week of the trip were completely opposite. The first week was dedicated to honoring Grandma Eufrocina and praying daily for her safe passage to the afterlife. The ceremonies were beautiful and not only shared the respects of the family, but of all the people in the village of Antipolo. The night before her body was walked to the town's ceremony, the local band struck up music in celebration of her life and played in the village streets through the night while everyone, strangers and family alike ate and enjoyed each others' company. It was nothing like I'd ever seen before.
After that week's festivities, and after I got over a mean traveler's cold, the family took to shopping, sight seeing and more eating. One of the most amazing experiences in that second week was the family booking a 60 person bus (that barely fit family members) and taking a drive to the Subic Bay to spend a day on the beach. Yes, the water was clear and even though it rained, we were swimming in 90 degree weather. It was paradise.
To those considering visiting the Philippine Islands; the time there passes slowly, don't bring a jacket and be prepared to be culture shocked!
Overall, the trip was life-changing. Aside from new dresses, shoes, handbags and jewelry, I took home a new perspective of family values. And that's like that credit card commercial says, priceless.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Le Paris Crepes: quick, filling and fairly priced
Walking through the CSUS Riveefront Cafe on a daily basis in search for an exciting place to eat is a challenge. There's the token sandwich spot, mom and pop ethnic cuisines and that random yogurt place who's sign looks like the Disney logo. What to choose... My default choice is normally Panda Express; I decided to go opposite of that... Le Paris Crepes!
It's in the farthest back corner of the riverfront, competing with burritos and Miyagi Sushi. Everytime I pass this place, there's no line or rapid movement behind the counter. Not the best of signs, but i decided to five it a whirl anyway.
After looking at the menu for quite some time, I decoded on a sweet and savory crepe. I ordered a ham, cheddar cheese and broccoli crepe, along with a plain crepe with butter, sugar and whipped creme.
I watched as the cook first made the Crepes; I'm sure it's one of those things that's way harder to do than it looks. The easy part came next, filling the wrapping, folding and serving.
I got my food in record time, although my order did not look as appealing as I imagined it would by the description on the menu. It looked like a folded tortilla on a plain paper plate. No color, no sauce, no nothin.
Either way, it was time to eat.
Cu
It's in the farthest back corner of the riverfront, competing with burritos and Miyagi Sushi. Everytime I pass this place, there's no line or rapid movement behind the counter. Not the best of signs, but i decided to five it a whirl anyway.
After looking at the menu for quite some time, I decoded on a sweet and savory crepe. I ordered a ham, cheddar cheese and broccoli crepe, along with a plain crepe with butter, sugar and whipped creme.
I watched as the cook first made the Crepes; I'm sure it's one of those things that's way harder to do than it looks. The easy part came next, filling the wrapping, folding and serving.
I got my food in record time, although my order did not look as appealing as I imagined it would by the description on the menu. It looked like a folded tortilla on a plain paper plate. No color, no sauce, no nothin.
Either way, it was time to eat.
Cu
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
"American Horror Story"
After flipping through the channels at one of my close friend's house until I made a full circle without finding anything appealing, I remembered Comcast's "On Demand" feature. What a life saver!
It being Halloween night, a particularly uneventful one, I was in the mood for something scary. After seeing a few previews of the show "American Horror Story", FX's second-season horror-drama, I was a little intrigued. Haunted house, sexy people and creepy neighbors. Why not?
What I knew going into the show is that FX has a tendency to cross the line of prime-time TV; uncommon four-letter words are put to use and adult scenes are a little more detailed, if you will. But with "American Horror Story", I was expecting first and foremost to be spooked.
It was an hour-long episode and despite that its viewing was meant for viewing last Wednesday, my friend and I grabbed snacks, hit the lights and pressed play.
The episode I watched was the season's pilot. It started out with a killing of two boys in the 1970s inside the typical, run-down, haunted house. It then jumped forward 40 years into present time when a family from across the country moves into the Los Angeles home expecting a new beginning. The family consists of Vivien, the mother who recently miscarried and is struggling to forgive her husband, Ben, who she caught cheating with one of his students. Their only daughter, Violet is a misfit teen who is bullied daily at her new school.
It being Halloween night, a particularly uneventful one, I was in the mood for something scary. After seeing a few previews of the show "American Horror Story", FX's second-season horror-drama, I was a little intrigued. Haunted house, sexy people and creepy neighbors. Why not?
What I knew going into the show is that FX has a tendency to cross the line of prime-time TV; uncommon four-letter words are put to use and adult scenes are a little more detailed, if you will. But with "American Horror Story", I was expecting first and foremost to be spooked.
It was an hour-long episode and despite that its viewing was meant for viewing last Wednesday, my friend and I grabbed snacks, hit the lights and pressed play.
The episode I watched was the season's pilot. It started out with a killing of two boys in the 1970s inside the typical, run-down, haunted house. It then jumped forward 40 years into present time when a family from across the country moves into the Los Angeles home expecting a new beginning. The family consists of Vivien, the mother who recently miscarried and is struggling to forgive her husband, Ben, who she caught cheating with one of his students. Their only daughter, Violet is a misfit teen who is bullied daily at her new school.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Dance Department Paradox
The dance department at Sacramento State is interesting. The faculty are enthusiastic and an odd but successful combination of ballet, jazz and modern/acrobatic dancers who have impressive resumes to back up their positions.
So why are the department leaders not more aggressive in raising the bar? The students are untrained, but passionate and artistic dancers who express themselves in the genre of modern, for the most part. There are some who have studio training as a foundation. But I'm not sure they're being challenged.
There is no audition to become a dance major/minor, only a long list of required technique and history classes. So that means people of different dance calibers are being sent out with the same degree from the same institution. And those that I've seen graduate with this degree stay involved with the department for years after. It seems there was a failure to launch.
I spent the spring semester at California State University, Long Beach, which is noted as one of the top ten dance programs in the nation. I was admitted into the school academically, but still had the challenge of auditioning for the program. I did not make the audition. And rightfully so. Not only were the dancers there phenomenal, but they had thousands of dollars worth of ballet training, something I lack.
Anticipating my return to Sacramento State to finish my degree in a more timely manner, I hoped that the department had upped its standards. Unfortunately, I returned home to the same style of dance (modern) swallowing the Shasta Theater.
The dance department at Sacramento State has the potential to be great, and possibly one of the best dance schools in Northern California, but in order to do that, it would need to create exclusivity.
In the dancer's defense, they are a creative bunch with original ideas and have an incredible drive to define modern dance. And I've seen some beautiful and risk-taking work come from them. So although they may not be the studio kids that have been training since they could walk, their committment to dance is just as great.
The cold part is that dance is about talent. Not hopes and dreams and creativity because when you're out in the "real world," auditioners are looking for that "wow" factor. And that can't be taught.
So why are the department leaders not more aggressive in raising the bar? The students are untrained, but passionate and artistic dancers who express themselves in the genre of modern, for the most part. There are some who have studio training as a foundation. But I'm not sure they're being challenged.
There is no audition to become a dance major/minor, only a long list of required technique and history classes. So that means people of different dance calibers are being sent out with the same degree from the same institution. And those that I've seen graduate with this degree stay involved with the department for years after. It seems there was a failure to launch.
I spent the spring semester at California State University, Long Beach, which is noted as one of the top ten dance programs in the nation. I was admitted into the school academically, but still had the challenge of auditioning for the program. I did not make the audition. And rightfully so. Not only were the dancers there phenomenal, but they had thousands of dollars worth of ballet training, something I lack.
Anticipating my return to Sacramento State to finish my degree in a more timely manner, I hoped that the department had upped its standards. Unfortunately, I returned home to the same style of dance (modern) swallowing the Shasta Theater.
The dance department at Sacramento State has the potential to be great, and possibly one of the best dance schools in Northern California, but in order to do that, it would need to create exclusivity.
In the dancer's defense, they are a creative bunch with original ideas and have an incredible drive to define modern dance. And I've seen some beautiful and risk-taking work come from them. So although they may not be the studio kids that have been training since they could walk, their committment to dance is just as great.
The cold part is that dance is about talent. Not hopes and dreams and creativity because when you're out in the "real world," auditioners are looking for that "wow" factor. And that can't be taught.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Pushing, Pushing
Every morning following my four-hour rehearsal for Sacramento Kings Dancers, I'm sore like I haven't danced in months. I'm told this is a good thing.
A couple of weeks ago, I took what is called a master class by a local choreographer and friend, Tramon Traywick. Basically, it is a workshop where dancers come to learn choreography from a professional choreographer and get critiqued. This particular class was in the style of jazz funk; a fusion of jazz dance and hip hop and burlesque. I guess the reason I went off on this tangent about this class is that the choreographer mentioned something that stuck with me, "As dancers, we always have to push." I attribute my soreness to me "pushing" at rehearsals.
The goal is to one day be a touring backup dancer for an uber-famous singer like Lady Gaga, or choreograph for music videos and the VMAs. Feels like I'm on my way, especially if I push.
There are a million and one things for dancers to think about while rehearsing or performing; execution of choreography, stamina, technique and entertaining the audience, and that's only narrowed down to the most important elements. Dancing is hard.
I recently attended a local dance performance, "Red Bucket Dance Theater: The Collection", which took place at the 24th Street Theater in town. As previously covered, dancers are competitive, so watching a show with peer dancers, performed by peer dancers, is always interesting. All we're doing is critiquing.
The genre was modern dance with hints of ballet, cultural dance and musical theater. For the most part, I enjoyed the show, save for a few pieces I could not interpret or were not aesthetically pleasing. One of the scenes that struck me most was the end work, which had an oriental flavor to it. Percussive movement, quick direction changes and leaps into the air filled the stage. The reason behind its entertaining factor was that the dancers were pushing.
Out of realization that the dance community is miniature relative to the rest of the world, I'd like to expand my theory of pushing...
Yesterday, I had a conversation with my best friend who is currently living in LA and attending Pepperdine University for her masters in psychology. We were discussing whether or not people should push themselves to be more social, more aggressive and more interesting. In a sense, we loosely concluded that pushing results in growth, in any situation.
I guess it's a common thought to push or "strive" for the best. But I think there is a major difference between pushing and striving. I consider pushing as giving it 110% when you've got nothing left, in essence, putting your mind over the matter. In dance terms, it's continuing to dance full out at the end of rehearsal when you're drenched in sweat and your muscles are past the point of fatigue.
Whatever the industry, whatever the goal, pushing seems to be a key element to stay competitive and to continue growing. Now the next question is where to find that extra 10%...
A couple of weeks ago, I took what is called a master class by a local choreographer and friend, Tramon Traywick. Basically, it is a workshop where dancers come to learn choreography from a professional choreographer and get critiqued. This particular class was in the style of jazz funk; a fusion of jazz dance and hip hop and burlesque. I guess the reason I went off on this tangent about this class is that the choreographer mentioned something that stuck with me, "As dancers, we always have to push." I attribute my soreness to me "pushing" at rehearsals.
The goal is to one day be a touring backup dancer for an uber-famous singer like Lady Gaga, or choreograph for music videos and the VMAs. Feels like I'm on my way, especially if I push.
There are a million and one things for dancers to think about while rehearsing or performing; execution of choreography, stamina, technique and entertaining the audience, and that's only narrowed down to the most important elements. Dancing is hard.
I recently attended a local dance performance, "Red Bucket Dance Theater: The Collection", which took place at the 24th Street Theater in town. As previously covered, dancers are competitive, so watching a show with peer dancers, performed by peer dancers, is always interesting. All we're doing is critiquing.
The genre was modern dance with hints of ballet, cultural dance and musical theater. For the most part, I enjoyed the show, save for a few pieces I could not interpret or were not aesthetically pleasing. One of the scenes that struck me most was the end work, which had an oriental flavor to it. Percussive movement, quick direction changes and leaps into the air filled the stage. The reason behind its entertaining factor was that the dancers were pushing.
Out of realization that the dance community is miniature relative to the rest of the world, I'd like to expand my theory of pushing...
Yesterday, I had a conversation with my best friend who is currently living in LA and attending Pepperdine University for her masters in psychology. We were discussing whether or not people should push themselves to be more social, more aggressive and more interesting. In a sense, we loosely concluded that pushing results in growth, in any situation.
I guess it's a common thought to push or "strive" for the best. But I think there is a major difference between pushing and striving. I consider pushing as giving it 110% when you've got nothing left, in essence, putting your mind over the matter. In dance terms, it's continuing to dance full out at the end of rehearsal when you're drenched in sweat and your muscles are past the point of fatigue.
Whatever the industry, whatever the goal, pushing seems to be a key element to stay competitive and to continue growing. Now the next question is where to find that extra 10%...
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Oh, Occupy Wallstreet
The Adbusters' poster, an illustration of a graceful dancer atop a raging bull, that promoted Occupy Wallstreet perfectly describes the new movement. Peaceful protest atop raging rich people. But will this protest prove successful? I think not.
The demands of the movement seem simple enough: create economic equality and stop corporate greed. Simple enough in an ideal world where money doesn't exist and greed is not a characteristic of humans.
Although protests and demonstrations have ignited change and equality in the past, a movement against corporate greed in capital America is a dream. We are built on the idea of capitalism, and I'm sure anti-Occupy Wallstreet folks are eager to call it socialism. This movement weighs less relative to, say, the Civil Rights Movement, which proved successful, and for obvious reasons. Also, Occupy Wallstreet demonstrators seem to be looking to get a quick fix; otherwise they would be looking to impact the polls come election time. I'm sure this is part of their goal to sway the polls, but a lot of what is currently being done is vague.
In researching the movement, I did not find two like articles. Most of them simply covered the numbers and statistics, instead of what the protestors are accomplishing, or trying to accomplish. That says a lot.
In all honesty, I lack interest in this subject, probably because I know the marches, though reaching from Zuccotti Park in New York to Cesar Chavez Park in Sacramento, won't be successful. I come to this conclusion considering that the age range for this demonstration is relatively young, and that the objective is far fetched.
While visiting the Occupy Sacramento Facebook page, I came across a quote posted on the page, "None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free", written by Geothe. Apparantly, 53% of Americans are trying to end the movement, which shows that over half of Americans are content with their economic status and with corporate power. This is yet another reason I believe the movement will fail.
We will never live in an equal world. I'm all for improving and demanding change when necessary, but ironically, Occupy Wallstreet is greedy. I remember being stressed about money at different times in my life, but my father always told me two things; money is a utility and you cannot take it with you. That being said, people need to focus on other things. Real things. The middle class is complaining here, not the lower class, not the poor, not the homeless. I know I'm grateful to be where I'm at.
Instead of spending time marching, I have a better idea: Giant Flash Mob.
The demands of the movement seem simple enough: create economic equality and stop corporate greed. Simple enough in an ideal world where money doesn't exist and greed is not a characteristic of humans.
Although protests and demonstrations have ignited change and equality in the past, a movement against corporate greed in capital America is a dream. We are built on the idea of capitalism, and I'm sure anti-Occupy Wallstreet folks are eager to call it socialism. This movement weighs less relative to, say, the Civil Rights Movement, which proved successful, and for obvious reasons. Also, Occupy Wallstreet demonstrators seem to be looking to get a quick fix; otherwise they would be looking to impact the polls come election time. I'm sure this is part of their goal to sway the polls, but a lot of what is currently being done is vague.
In researching the movement, I did not find two like articles. Most of them simply covered the numbers and statistics, instead of what the protestors are accomplishing, or trying to accomplish. That says a lot.
In all honesty, I lack interest in this subject, probably because I know the marches, though reaching from Zuccotti Park in New York to Cesar Chavez Park in Sacramento, won't be successful. I come to this conclusion considering that the age range for this demonstration is relatively young, and that the objective is far fetched.
While visiting the Occupy Sacramento Facebook page, I came across a quote posted on the page, "None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free", written by Geothe. Apparantly, 53% of Americans are trying to end the movement, which shows that over half of Americans are content with their economic status and with corporate power. This is yet another reason I believe the movement will fail.
We will never live in an equal world. I'm all for improving and demanding change when necessary, but ironically, Occupy Wallstreet is greedy. I remember being stressed about money at different times in my life, but my father always told me two things; money is a utility and you cannot take it with you. That being said, people need to focus on other things. Real things. The middle class is complaining here, not the lower class, not the poor, not the homeless. I know I'm grateful to be where I'm at.
Instead of spending time marching, I have a better idea: Giant Flash Mob.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Blocking a Career in Dance
So far, my life as a Sacramento Kings Dancer has been nothing short of amazing; I've met some great new people and am getting priceless dance training. I have to say though, the most intriguing part of this whole process has been in the reactions I'm getting from my personal network of people.
The "dance scene", especially in Sacramento, is a small one. It is built of tightly-knit, young, ambitious dancers who love and compete with their peers. Where I come from is an even smaller circle of hip hop dancers, mostly located in South Sacramento who create "underground" crews who compete and perform in local competitions for cash prizes and bragging rights. Interestingly, I've recently discovered the depth of segregation between dancers of different genres, and how much the dancers in each genres stick to their roots, especially underground hip hoppers.
It would be safe to say that I've jumped around; started as a hip hop dancer, moved to burlesque and jazz and even some cheerleading. Oh, the cheerleading. Starting out as a masculine dancer, like from far away you can't tell if that person in the baggy v-neck and sweats is a guy or a girl, influenced the remainder of my dance life.
Needless to say, some of my original hip hop dance peers were less than excited upon catching me with pom-poms in my hands with Dolly Parton hair and pageant princess make up. I don't deny that it was a change, and a dramatic one, and it is not common for dancers to jump around. It is respectable for dancers to hone in on "their" genre and climb up the great ladder of status in that genre. The goal is (I think), for dancers to get compensated for their work, whether it be choreography, dancing or assisting. In all honesty, I was ready for that to happen.
In Sacramento, hip hop dance does not pay, unless you're teaching. In fact, it is common in the above-mentioned crews to pay monthly for your membership and classes upon being admitted into the company. I would know, I had a crew of my own. Jazz dancers and professional cheerleaders, such as the Sacramento Kings Dancers, on the other hand, are compensated for their time and work, hence my decision to switch to the dark side.
The differences between being a member of a jazz company versus a hip hop company are countless. Hip hop dancers rely on basses and snares to teach movement and jazz uses the traditional counting of five, six, seven, eights. Obviously the music differs extensively as well. Though frequently overlooked by young dancers, the similarities between dancers of different genres are what defines all of us as dancers. We're all there to move ourselves and the audience.
The transition into professional jazz has been rough though; my dance clothes are limited to dark colors and plaids and not enough Victoria's Secret "PINK" cheetah print jazz pants. My shoes are still high-top Nikes and I don't yet own a pair of Uggs. But I make do. Baby steps.
The "dance scene", especially in Sacramento, is a small one. It is built of tightly-knit, young, ambitious dancers who love and compete with their peers. Where I come from is an even smaller circle of hip hop dancers, mostly located in South Sacramento who create "underground" crews who compete and perform in local competitions for cash prizes and bragging rights. Interestingly, I've recently discovered the depth of segregation between dancers of different genres, and how much the dancers in each genres stick to their roots, especially underground hip hoppers.
It would be safe to say that I've jumped around; started as a hip hop dancer, moved to burlesque and jazz and even some cheerleading. Oh, the cheerleading. Starting out as a masculine dancer, like from far away you can't tell if that person in the baggy v-neck and sweats is a guy or a girl, influenced the remainder of my dance life.
Needless to say, some of my original hip hop dance peers were less than excited upon catching me with pom-poms in my hands with Dolly Parton hair and pageant princess make up. I don't deny that it was a change, and a dramatic one, and it is not common for dancers to jump around. It is respectable for dancers to hone in on "their" genre and climb up the great ladder of status in that genre. The goal is (I think), for dancers to get compensated for their work, whether it be choreography, dancing or assisting. In all honesty, I was ready for that to happen.
In Sacramento, hip hop dance does not pay, unless you're teaching. In fact, it is common in the above-mentioned crews to pay monthly for your membership and classes upon being admitted into the company. I would know, I had a crew of my own. Jazz dancers and professional cheerleaders, such as the Sacramento Kings Dancers, on the other hand, are compensated for their time and work, hence my decision to switch to the dark side.
The differences between being a member of a jazz company versus a hip hop company are countless. Hip hop dancers rely on basses and snares to teach movement and jazz uses the traditional counting of five, six, seven, eights. Obviously the music differs extensively as well. Though frequently overlooked by young dancers, the similarities between dancers of different genres are what defines all of us as dancers. We're all there to move ourselves and the audience.
The transition into professional jazz has been rough though; my dance clothes are limited to dark colors and plaids and not enough Victoria's Secret "PINK" cheetah print jazz pants. My shoes are still high-top Nikes and I don't yet own a pair of Uggs. But I make do. Baby steps.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The Never Satisfied Steve Lopez
There are mostly men in my column writing class. This realization led me to the idea of finding a successful female columnist that was in the field of arts and culture or one who is/was a great human interest writer. The assignment to find a female columnist who's work I respect and enjoy was difficult to say the least. There are a plethora of talented writers, many of which are successful and have broken the "glass ceiling", in reference to gender.
In all the reading I did searching for a writer that came to my attention, I suddenly remembered why I chose to go into journalism in the first place.
It might seem like a total cliche at this point to write about columnist, Steve Lopez of the Los Angeles Times, but this well-known writer continues to change the world with inspirational and surprisingly human stories. His page on latimes.com is filled with countless follow-up pieces to a few pressing issues. It seems Lopez cannot delve deep enough in any niche he pursues and will not quit until his work ignites action.
In case, for some strange reason, you are not familiar with Mr. Lopez, he is the writer of a column that focused on the life of Nathanial Anthony Ayers; an incredibly talented and incredibly homeless musician. It was this very column and later novel that inspired the film The Soloist (2009). Jaime Foxx and Robert Downey Jr. played the leading roles in the film.
Lopez began writing with the Los Angeles Times in 2001 after writing for various Time, Inc. publications, including Time, Sports Illustrated, Life and Entertainment Weekly. He recently earned an honorary doctorate degree from San Jose State University
It's not ridiculous to assume that anyone in Lopez' position, a columnist-turned Hollywood film writer would simply take the money and run off to the Bahamas after such unimaginable success. Fortunately, Lopez did not take that route and is still very much a committed columnist for the Los Angeles Times.
Although Steve Lopez is not a female columnist that covers arts and culture, he was the first to inspire me to become part of whatever I was pursuing as opposed to simply observing and reporting. I consider Lopez a literary journalist because of his ability to tell a true story and not only make it seem like a movie, but to actually create a film, both about Lopez and Ayers.
Aside from spending time in "Skid Row" in Downtown Los Angeles with motive to expose an overlooked underground, Lopez covers everything from politics to education to profiles of dying people. Recently, he wrote his experience with a woman who emailed him about her readiness to die. The story seems straight forward enough, but what makes this work exceptional are the lessons learned by Lopez. The story can be read here.
It seems the political activist/human interest route taken by Lopez serves as topics that feed a wide variety of audiences and inspire many to become involved, essentially in changing the world. What good is journalism if it doesn't demand change? As a new columnist, I'm definitely taking notes.
A description of the column
How often it is published
The educational background of the writer
The professional background of the writer
What drew you to want to profile the columnist
What are the attributes of the columnist that you like the most - and perhaps dislike
In all the reading I did searching for a writer that came to my attention, I suddenly remembered why I chose to go into journalism in the first place.
It might seem like a total cliche at this point to write about columnist, Steve Lopez of the Los Angeles Times, but this well-known writer continues to change the world with inspirational and surprisingly human stories. His page on latimes.com is filled with countless follow-up pieces to a few pressing issues. It seems Lopez cannot delve deep enough in any niche he pursues and will not quit until his work ignites action.
In case, for some strange reason, you are not familiar with Mr. Lopez, he is the writer of a column that focused on the life of Nathanial Anthony Ayers; an incredibly talented and incredibly homeless musician. It was this very column and later novel that inspired the film The Soloist (2009). Jaime Foxx and Robert Downey Jr. played the leading roles in the film.
Lopez began writing with the Los Angeles Times in 2001 after writing for various Time, Inc. publications, including Time, Sports Illustrated, Life and Entertainment Weekly. He recently earned an honorary doctorate degree from San Jose State University
It's not ridiculous to assume that anyone in Lopez' position, a columnist-turned Hollywood film writer would simply take the money and run off to the Bahamas after such unimaginable success. Fortunately, Lopez did not take that route and is still very much a committed columnist for the Los Angeles Times.
Although Steve Lopez is not a female columnist that covers arts and culture, he was the first to inspire me to become part of whatever I was pursuing as opposed to simply observing and reporting. I consider Lopez a literary journalist because of his ability to tell a true story and not only make it seem like a movie, but to actually create a film, both about Lopez and Ayers.
Aside from spending time in "Skid Row" in Downtown Los Angeles with motive to expose an overlooked underground, Lopez covers everything from politics to education to profiles of dying people. Recently, he wrote his experience with a woman who emailed him about her readiness to die. The story seems straight forward enough, but what makes this work exceptional are the lessons learned by Lopez. The story can be read here.
It seems the political activist/human interest route taken by Lopez serves as topics that feed a wide variety of audiences and inspire many to become involved, essentially in changing the world. What good is journalism if it doesn't demand change? As a new columnist, I'm definitely taking notes.
A description of the column
How often it is published
The educational background of the writer
The professional background of the writer
What drew you to want to profile the columnist
What are the attributes of the columnist that you like the most - and perhaps dislike
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Define "Professional Dancer"
It's all about the timing. And the costume, eyelashes and tights. And the ten years of training behind each candidate standing idly in front of a panel of judges with only a number to be identified by. People watching from a distance would probably mistake the event for a beauty pageant, but it's not. It's an NBA dance team auditions.
The Sacramento Kings Dance Team held a grueling, three-day audition this past weekend at Thunder Valley Casino. Over 60 women, some as young as 17, competed for 15 spots on the 2011-2012 team, and although there was a tiny audience, the pressure was on. Some women were cut in the first 20 minutes.
After performing various genres and advanced jazz dance technique, the dancers would smile ear to ear and stand in a straight line, waiting to be judged by seasoned professional dancers, but complete strangers nonetheless. Even veteran dancers have to re-audition yearly, and their spot is never a guarantee.
Why would any reasonably-minded person subject themselves to such blunt judgement? It seems artists will do anything for their art. Including dancing around in a bikini for six hours straight.
It's safe to say that a common perception of professional cheerleaders and dancers are merely pretty faces with bubbly attitudes who are willing to get paid for their image. But their talent is truly beyond that. The minimum requirements to be on an NBA dance team are for the women to be great public speakers, excellent performers, portray an image of fitness and to be committed ambassadors for both the league and the team. As mentioned before, the above is simply the minimum criteria. The judges must also consider ethnicity, height, hair color, etc.
The audition process consisted of dance auditions in three different genres, on-camera interviews, a photo shoot, a live performance and eventually an online poll. In between all these steps are cuts, cuts, cuts. The process of elimination is quick and painful for most, and the cold part is that none of the eliminated candidates will ever know why they were cut. It makes it difficult for them to improve and prepare for the next time around.
Performers in general are incredible risk takers; they create art to show to an audience who rarely realize the vulnerable position they're in and what it took to get there. The creation of choreography, a script, music, and visual art are all expressions of the soul. A professional dancer is simply defined as someone who will pay you to perform. Its incredible how some humans allow other humans to determine their worth.
It's not all bad, though. For a select few, the dream of getting paid for what they enjoy doing and the rarity in that is what gives it its value.
They say it takes ten years to make a dancer, but from the looks of it, it takes three minutes to categorize someone as a professional dancer.
The Sacramento Kings Dance Team held a grueling, three-day audition this past weekend at Thunder Valley Casino. Over 60 women, some as young as 17, competed for 15 spots on the 2011-2012 team, and although there was a tiny audience, the pressure was on. Some women were cut in the first 20 minutes.
After performing various genres and advanced jazz dance technique, the dancers would smile ear to ear and stand in a straight line, waiting to be judged by seasoned professional dancers, but complete strangers nonetheless. Even veteran dancers have to re-audition yearly, and their spot is never a guarantee.
Why would any reasonably-minded person subject themselves to such blunt judgement? It seems artists will do anything for their art. Including dancing around in a bikini for six hours straight.
It's safe to say that a common perception of professional cheerleaders and dancers are merely pretty faces with bubbly attitudes who are willing to get paid for their image. But their talent is truly beyond that. The minimum requirements to be on an NBA dance team are for the women to be great public speakers, excellent performers, portray an image of fitness and to be committed ambassadors for both the league and the team. As mentioned before, the above is simply the minimum criteria. The judges must also consider ethnicity, height, hair color, etc.
The audition process consisted of dance auditions in three different genres, on-camera interviews, a photo shoot, a live performance and eventually an online poll. In between all these steps are cuts, cuts, cuts. The process of elimination is quick and painful for most, and the cold part is that none of the eliminated candidates will ever know why they were cut. It makes it difficult for them to improve and prepare for the next time around.
Performers in general are incredible risk takers; they create art to show to an audience who rarely realize the vulnerable position they're in and what it took to get there. The creation of choreography, a script, music, and visual art are all expressions of the soul. A professional dancer is simply defined as someone who will pay you to perform. Its incredible how some humans allow other humans to determine their worth.
It's not all bad, though. For a select few, the dream of getting paid for what they enjoy doing and the rarity in that is what gives it its value.
They say it takes ten years to make a dancer, but from the looks of it, it takes three minutes to categorize someone as a professional dancer.
Friday, September 9, 2011
College... Why it really is good.
Let's face it. Most of us go or have gone to college because our parents say we should and our high schools encouraged it. We all know the obvious benefits of getting a higher education - gaining the ability to have an intellectual conversation, meeting people and making MORE MONEY. But is that really all college does for young adults?
The answer is absolutely not. People get to know themselves in college, and there is no other institution that teaches you more about your beliefs, values, abilities and limitations. Simply going to class and learning with a room full of strangers and giving your mind to yet another complete stranger to mold is a huge risk. Without college, people take less risks. College provides us with more than an education in the area of our interest. It allows our minds to be challenged. It encourages intellectual growth. Most importantly, college in and of itself is an experience and the opportunities created when you have a degree grow exponentially as you progress through the stages of higher education.
The experience that going to college provides is extremely unique. You are part of a group of young, motivated people with a common goal and interest. You learn together and you grow together. As you get to know more and more people, it really opens your eyes to exactly how diverse our world is. People come from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. You learn that everyone doesn't think the same way you do and not everyone has the same belief system. Sure, this sounds simple enough. Of course people don't think like you, you figured this out in high school, right? This could be true, but very few high school graduates know who they are. I remember graduating high school and thinking I knew everything about everything and everyone. Going to college made me realize that I really have no clue. While coming to this realization sounds frustrating, it was actually quite the opposite. It created a sense of yearning in me. What else don't I know? I need to find out. This is the moment that parents, teachers, and professors hope for. This moment has lit a flame within you to pursue knowledge long after you've graduated from college. This flame of motivation is constantly fanned as you take more classes, write more papers, pass more final exams. You enjoy challenging yourself. You find yourself enjoying learning and realize high school was just there to prepare you for this experience we call college.
So you've graduated college and had this wonderful experience learning about yourself and others. Now what? The number of opportunities for you are abundant. Employers want someone with a degree because it shows that you can be committed, you are intelligent, and you have a desire to learn and grow. Why wouldn't someone want to hire you? You can only get so far with a high school diploma. A college degree will allow you room to advance within the field as you gain more experience. As you advance – more money. We all want to live comfortably and not have any financial hardship. Why not increase your chances of this happening with a degree?
College provides us with more than a piece of paper that says you completed the requirements for this degree. The experience of college itself teaches us more about ourselves and others than what we learn sitting in a classroom. A degree can open so many doors. You just have to take the step. Your future is yours. You are your greatest investment. Why not be the best you can be?
The answer is absolutely not. People get to know themselves in college, and there is no other institution that teaches you more about your beliefs, values, abilities and limitations. Simply going to class and learning with a room full of strangers and giving your mind to yet another complete stranger to mold is a huge risk. Without college, people take less risks. College provides us with more than an education in the area of our interest. It allows our minds to be challenged. It encourages intellectual growth. Most importantly, college in and of itself is an experience and the opportunities created when you have a degree grow exponentially as you progress through the stages of higher education.
The experience that going to college provides is extremely unique. You are part of a group of young, motivated people with a common goal and interest. You learn together and you grow together. As you get to know more and more people, it really opens your eyes to exactly how diverse our world is. People come from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. You learn that everyone doesn't think the same way you do and not everyone has the same belief system. Sure, this sounds simple enough. Of course people don't think like you, you figured this out in high school, right? This could be true, but very few high school graduates know who they are. I remember graduating high school and thinking I knew everything about everything and everyone. Going to college made me realize that I really have no clue. While coming to this realization sounds frustrating, it was actually quite the opposite. It created a sense of yearning in me. What else don't I know? I need to find out. This is the moment that parents, teachers, and professors hope for. This moment has lit a flame within you to pursue knowledge long after you've graduated from college. This flame of motivation is constantly fanned as you take more classes, write more papers, pass more final exams. You enjoy challenging yourself. You find yourself enjoying learning and realize high school was just there to prepare you for this experience we call college.
So you've graduated college and had this wonderful experience learning about yourself and others. Now what? The number of opportunities for you are abundant. Employers want someone with a degree because it shows that you can be committed, you are intelligent, and you have a desire to learn and grow. Why wouldn't someone want to hire you? You can only get so far with a high school diploma. A college degree will allow you room to advance within the field as you gain more experience. As you advance – more money. We all want to live comfortably and not have any financial hardship. Why not increase your chances of this happening with a degree?
College provides us with more than a piece of paper that says you completed the requirements for this degree. The experience of college itself teaches us more about ourselves and others than what we learn sitting in a classroom. A degree can open so many doors. You just have to take the step. Your future is yours. You are your greatest investment. Why not be the best you can be?
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