In the latest installment of our Dazzler Profile series, The Costume Gallery team caught up with Coco from Marlboro, NJ
“I love to entertain people and make them feel happy!” -- Coco
The term “star quality” was created for people like Coco. This 9-year-old girl was born to perform -- and to dazzle!
When Coco told us her goal was to be famous, we weren’t the least bit surprised. In fact, even though she’s only in third grade, precocious little Coco has already built herself a large and loyal social media following. She’s also known by just one nickname, like Cher, Prince and JLo.
We’re excited to welcome this sassy, sparkly force of nature to our team of adorable Dazzlers!
Coco has been dancing and performing for Icon Dance Complex for as long as she can remember, and says “it’s something I just naturally do when I hear music!” But she’s not all about the stage; in fact, she loves creative writing and wants to be an author when she grows up!
We asked Coco to tell us her own personal story here. Read on, and enjoy learning more about this amazing young lady!
What got you hooked on dance, and what do you love most about it?
I was born hooked! I have a big sister that Is a dancer also, so from the day I was born I always watched her dance and wanted to do the same.
Who are your biggest mentors in dance, and what impact did they have on you?
My big sister, Alexis and my hip hop teacher and owner of my studio, Geo Hubela. My sister has always been someone I look up to and she has taught me so much about dance. Geo has made a huge impact on me; he gave me my first solo when I was 7 and believed in me completely. With his extensive success as a dancer and choreographer in the industry, his guidance is invaluable. To me, he is a hip hop genius!
What is your first recital memory?
I honestly don’t remember my first dance recital too clearly!! I was so little!! I just remember loving the feeling of being on stage, dressing up in my costumes, and celebrating with my dance friends after!
Do you remember your favorite costume you ever wore? Tell us more about it!
Yes!! Definitely my favorite costume was my hip hop solo costume. It was a hot pink harem style jumpsuit with my name COCO bedazzled with rhinestones applied by my mom. I also had rhinestone-encrusted sneakers to match made by my mom! I won several “Best Costume” awards for that costume during competition season!
How have you integrated dance into your life during the COVID-19 pandemic?
I have kept dancing virtually through several different platforms of online classes, such as Guy Groove, Steezy, Monsters 365, and Broadway Dance Center, to name a few. I also have been taking private lessons through Zoom for ballet, jazz funk, hip hop, stretch, technique and contemporary. My dance studio also has been providing classes outdoors this summer. I am dancing six days a week and have taken advantage of the opportunities to train with choreographers from all over the country, and even from Europe!
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a dancer during the pandemic?
The biggest challenge has been not dancing with my dance friends as much as I’m used to! Thank goodness my studio started classes outside, so at least I can see them a few times a week.
How has your outlook on life changed in the last year?
Gratitude! I now have much more of it!!! I can’t wait for my life to go back to normal, but I am trying to stay focused on still growing as a dancer and not letting this pandemic stop it!
What are your goals in dance?
My goals in dance are to continue to grow and one day dance on tour all over the world. I would love to travel the world as a dancer! So far, I was able to do that once to Germany as part of the IDO US hip hop team!
What do you think it means to be an “Influencer”?
To be a role model for other young girls. To be an optimistic person who influences kids to set goals, work hard, stay focused on big dreams, and to believe in themselves!
What message do you want to send to other dancers who look up to you?
To be true to yourself and love who you are!
We’re big Coco fans, and after reading her profile, we’re sure you are, too! Remember to stay tuned to our blog as we continue to introduce our amazing lineup of Dazzlers throughout the season!
