4 Tips from a Backstreet Boys Dancer: How to 'Fake it Til You Make It' on the Dance Floor
At BLOCK21, our cardio dance classes are designed for people with NO DANCE EXPERIENCE. That being said, sometimes you need a few tips from the pros to break through to the next level. We sat down with Valentino Vladimirov, a professional dancer on the Backstreet Boys’ Las Vegas Tour who has worked with Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Christina Aguilera, and Ellen DeGeneres. He knows how to work the spotlight and gave us a few tips to “fake it til you make it” on the dance floor.
1. Learn how you learn.
Chances are you are not going to look like the instructor right away if you just started dancing. It takes years of training and of practice. Be patience with yourself. Allow yourself to learn the choreography even if it takes you twice as long to learn it. Stay away from self judgment. Everyone has to start somewhere.
2. Learn how to listen to music.
This is the key. There are so many different parts in a song. If you learn the beats, the tempo, the lyrics, the meaning- what is the song about - what kind of emotion is it trying to convey. What will help you while you are developing your ear are the counts. Whatever counts the choreographer gives you - know them. Ask questions and take responsibility for them.
3. Do what you need to do to be successful in class.
This is simple. Ask questions. Make sure you can see. If you can’t see - move somewhere in the room where you can. Use the space. If you see that there isn’t enough room where you are dancing and trying to learn - move. Go somewhere where there is space. Stay present. Stay in the moment. Don’t sit down.
4. Take different classes.
Push yourself. Don’t settle. Don’t judge yourself and don’t compare yourself. It’s okay. You will get there. Stay focused and committed.
Ready to ‘Fake it Til You Make It' on the Dance Floor?