Meet Nikkie Jeong
Nikkie Jeong is a 16-year-old Grade 11 Dance Major at Etobicoke School of the Arts, and a new Company Apprentice with CCDT this season. Read on for Nikkie's enthusiastic responses about her recent dance inspirations, finding a second family, and some fun facts you may have never guessed about her.
What influenced and/or inspired you to audition for the company?
The unity and friendship between the company members as well as the experiences CCDT offers.
What was the adjustment to CCDT's schedule and studio dynamic like for you, having recently come from another studio?
The adjustment in the amount of hours dancing was a huge change for me. However, my fellow company members have helped me through anything and everything. They’re practically like a second family! When I started CCDT it was a little overwhelming but as time has gone by I’m happy where I am and I wouldn’t change it for the world!
How do you do your best to balance the training and performance demands of CCDT with school, family commitments, and the rest of your life?
Time management is really important!! I try to stay on top of all my school work and assignments so all the weight of the stress and pressure is off my shoulders. I also let my dance teachers know if there’s a family commitment as soon as possible so they are aware and able to discuss and schedule changes ahead of time.
Are there any choreographers, teachers, guest teachers or guest artists you have worked with at CCDT who have been greatly influential on your training and/or growth as a dancer and artist?
Daniel [Fetecua Soto] from SunDance [2018] greatly influenced my growth as a dancer. He taught the modern classes for the advanced group and it was amazing. He is a former member of the Limón Company, so he incorporated the Limón technique but also added some Colombian styles here and there, as he was born and raised in Colombia. Also, his journey from starting dance at an older age, then joining the José Limón Company is inspiring to me.
What skills do you think your training, performing, and overall experience with CCDT are teaching you that are transferable to other aspects of your life?
Time management, respect, organization, responsibility as well as initiative and collaborating with others.
What's something interesting about you most people don't know?
I’m ambidextrous!
What other hobbies or interests do you have outside of dance?
I love listening to music, watching movies and eating lots of food.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering auditioning for CCDT?
The experiences, memories and friendships you make during your time at CCDT are something you won’t regret!!
Nikkie's favourite quote:
Everything happens for a reason.
Photos by Francesca Chudnoff
Don't miss Nikkie's premiere performance with CCDT at this year's WinterSong - dances for a sacred season, in which she will perform Carol Anderson's festive classic Nowell Sing We. WinterSong runs December 14 & 15, 2018 at the Fleck Dance Theatre. Click here for info and tickets.
