***Our Interview With Kristina Rihanoff***
Photo Credit: Fiona Whyte Photography
As many of you know, here at MacManiacs.org we love to talk with different artists about their work, and we were delighted when Strictly Come Dancing pro Kristina Rihanoff agreed to answer some of our questions. We know you will love this interview with her. It will be located here temporarily, but it also be permanently archived on our blog.
http://www.macmaniacs.org/macmusings/interview-with-kristina-rihanoff-july-20-2015
Special thanks to Fiona Whyte Photography for giving us permission to use the photos contained in this interview.
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http://www.macmaniacs.org/macmusings/interview-with-kristina-rihanoff-july-20-2015
Special thanks to Fiona Whyte Photography for giving us permission to use the photos contained in this interview.
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First of all, congratulations on a very successful Strictly Come Dancing series and tour. You and Simon created a wonderful partnership. How was the experience of working with him?
Simon was great to work with. Very dedicated and respectful. That is what is needed to create a good team on the floor.
What were his strengths as a dance partner and a dance student?
He never doubted me as a teacher and mentor. That's why he was partnering me so well.
We all want to hear about that amazing Argentine Tango! How did the choreography come together and how difficult was it to master that final lift?
The last lift was something I've done with Robin Windsor before and I always loved that lift as it is so unexpected. It's actually a very easy lift to do if the lady has a good core.
The Argentine Tango was a make or break deal and Simon knew it and rose to the occasion. He definitely took the show seriously and wanted to show how much he loved the dancing.
Tell us about the tour experience this year. Was there a particular venue, audience, or city that stands out for you?
The tour was really great as Simon and I won most of the shows around the country and now I have my own Glitter Ball!! Every venue is special as I feel so much love and appreciation for my craft. It's was my dream since I was 6 to perform in front of people so every time I'm on stage I feel very happy.
What made it particularly special?
Winning almost every night!!!
You are always busy – performing, teaching, and performing some more! Fill us in on what you've been doing.
Robin and I have been doing the Puttin’ on the Ritz theater show which is absolute fantastic. We love dancing and choreographing our own solos so it's a blast. Also we do loads of cruises, private and corporate events.
Things seemed to go so smoothly on the tour, but was that always the case? Were there any missed cues, wardrobe issues, etc. that would make for a good story?
Not on my watch!!
Take us through a typical day for you on a Strictly Come Dancing show day. For instance, how much time in hair and makeup, camera blocking, etc.
Girls get to the studios as early as 8 a.m. for hair and makeup. Then it's a band call with your partner, then full dress run and live show. After the live show we have about 40 minutes to change for a group number prerecord, and then we film the Sunday show. So I get home about midnight on Saturdays. It's about a 16 hour day!
Similarly what was a typical show day like on the tour – particularly on days in which you had 2 shows?
Tour is much easier. I have time to sleep in and take a look around the cities. I do my own hair and make up on the tour so I can get in a little later then other girls - about 2 hours before the show.
We have heard about your passion for charity work and would like to know more about it and find out how we can help. Please tell us about the Dot Com Children’s Foundation.
I've met my charity CEO Sharon Evans about 5 years ago. She asked me to perform at one of the events so I did. Then we got very close and I really wanted to help. I went to loads of schools in very deprived areas and spoke to children about how to achieve their dreams. It has been a very rewarding experience and I wanted to do more. I became a trustee and then a patron of the charity. I did my very first fundraising event last year and raised 93000£!!! I was overwhelmed with the amount of support from SCD professionals. It's great to have good friends in a very tough show business.
While Tristan has fans worldwide, we are U.S. based as are many of his supporters. Please tell us about the time you spent living, training and working here in the states. Are there any special cites or places that you were especially fond of?
I moved to Seattle when I was 23 to compete professionally. Also I lived a little bit in LA before I moved to London. I will always love Seattle. My best friend lives there and I'm a godmother to her son. The city reminds me of my hometown Vladivostok. It's also a seaport and I love the sea so much! I miss it.
We have to ask. What was it like having Tristan as your pro partner last year on Strictly? Any fun stories you could share?
Tristan was great to work with and he has a fantastic sense of humour. We had a lot of fun at rehearsals. It can get tiring and hard but Tristan always cracks a good old Irish joke! All the pros love working with Tristan!!
It was such a pleasure watching you dance last year and seeing all the wonderful clips of you on the tour. Do you have any words for all of your new supporters? (and you have lots of new fans here!)
I just want to thank everyone for support and for giving us pros your kind energy. The show comes with loads of hard work and dedication. It's great to know that our fans are there for us. We create, teach and dance for all of you. Thank you for being such a wonderful fan group !!
-- Kristina
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For more information on the Dot Com Children's Foundation:
http://dotcomcf.org/
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Simon was great to work with. Very dedicated and respectful. That is what is needed to create a good team on the floor.
What were his strengths as a dance partner and a dance student?
He never doubted me as a teacher and mentor. That's why he was partnering me so well.
We all want to hear about that amazing Argentine Tango! How did the choreography come together and how difficult was it to master that final lift?
The last lift was something I've done with Robin Windsor before and I always loved that lift as it is so unexpected. It's actually a very easy lift to do if the lady has a good core.
The Argentine Tango was a make or break deal and Simon knew it and rose to the occasion. He definitely took the show seriously and wanted to show how much he loved the dancing.
Tell us about the tour experience this year. Was there a particular venue, audience, or city that stands out for you?
The tour was really great as Simon and I won most of the shows around the country and now I have my own Glitter Ball!! Every venue is special as I feel so much love and appreciation for my craft. It's was my dream since I was 6 to perform in front of people so every time I'm on stage I feel very happy.
What made it particularly special?
Winning almost every night!!!
You are always busy – performing, teaching, and performing some more! Fill us in on what you've been doing.
Robin and I have been doing the Puttin’ on the Ritz theater show which is absolute fantastic. We love dancing and choreographing our own solos so it's a blast. Also we do loads of cruises, private and corporate events.
Things seemed to go so smoothly on the tour, but was that always the case? Were there any missed cues, wardrobe issues, etc. that would make for a good story?
Not on my watch!!
Take us through a typical day for you on a Strictly Come Dancing show day. For instance, how much time in hair and makeup, camera blocking, etc.
Girls get to the studios as early as 8 a.m. for hair and makeup. Then it's a band call with your partner, then full dress run and live show. After the live show we have about 40 minutes to change for a group number prerecord, and then we film the Sunday show. So I get home about midnight on Saturdays. It's about a 16 hour day!
Similarly what was a typical show day like on the tour – particularly on days in which you had 2 shows?
Tour is much easier. I have time to sleep in and take a look around the cities. I do my own hair and make up on the tour so I can get in a little later then other girls - about 2 hours before the show.
We have heard about your passion for charity work and would like to know more about it and find out how we can help. Please tell us about the Dot Com Children’s Foundation.
I've met my charity CEO Sharon Evans about 5 years ago. She asked me to perform at one of the events so I did. Then we got very close and I really wanted to help. I went to loads of schools in very deprived areas and spoke to children about how to achieve their dreams. It has been a very rewarding experience and I wanted to do more. I became a trustee and then a patron of the charity. I did my very first fundraising event last year and raised 93000£!!! I was overwhelmed with the amount of support from SCD professionals. It's great to have good friends in a very tough show business.
While Tristan has fans worldwide, we are U.S. based as are many of his supporters. Please tell us about the time you spent living, training and working here in the states. Are there any special cites or places that you were especially fond of?
I moved to Seattle when I was 23 to compete professionally. Also I lived a little bit in LA before I moved to London. I will always love Seattle. My best friend lives there and I'm a godmother to her son. The city reminds me of my hometown Vladivostok. It's also a seaport and I love the sea so much! I miss it.
We have to ask. What was it like having Tristan as your pro partner last year on Strictly? Any fun stories you could share?
Tristan was great to work with and he has a fantastic sense of humour. We had a lot of fun at rehearsals. It can get tiring and hard but Tristan always cracks a good old Irish joke! All the pros love working with Tristan!!
It was such a pleasure watching you dance last year and seeing all the wonderful clips of you on the tour. Do you have any words for all of your new supporters? (and you have lots of new fans here!)
I just want to thank everyone for support and for giving us pros your kind energy. The show comes with loads of hard work and dedication. It's great to know that our fans are there for us. We create, teach and dance for all of you. Thank you for being such a wonderful fan group !!
-- Kristina
******************
For more information on the Dot Com Children's Foundation:
http://dotcomcf.org/
******************
Photo Credit: Fiona Whyte Photography
Photo Credit: Fiona Whyte Photography
Photo Credit: Fiona Whyte Photography
Photo Credit: Fiona Whyte Photography
Photo Credit: Fiona Whyte Photography
Photo Credit: Fiona Whyte Photography
Photo Ccredit: Fiona Whyte Photography
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This page also currently features two more of our favorite artists - photographer Fiona Whyte and professional dancer Jasmine Takacs. We hope you enjoy these special interviews with two very talented ladies. To read Jasmine's interview, please scroll down on the page.
***Getting To Know Fiona Whyte***
May 30, 2015
May 30, 2015
Fiona Whyte is a multi-talented artist who caught our eye with her incredible photographs from the Strictly Live Tour – 2015. In addition to her brilliant photography skills, she has operated her own dance school, Fi Steps, for 24 years. She is from Horsham in West Sussex and her dance school branches are in Horsham and Crawley. We know you will love learning more about her!
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Many of us first noticed your work when we saw your beautiful photos from this year’s Strictly Come Dancing Live
tour, and we were surprised to learn that you got your start in photography fairly recently. How did you get started, what aspect of it interested you, and how did you end up doing performance photography/live show photography?
I first took photos in 2014 on Pasha Kovalev & Katya Virshilas’ UK tour. I have run my own dance school for almost 25 years and have a huge passion for dance and performance. Having recently lost my Mum the one thing I realized is that you can never have enough photographs, so I treated myself to a good camera. My dance school was participating in two performances of the tour and that’s where I took my first photos. After that I was thrilled to be asked to photograph several other performances on the tour. I seem to have been blessed with the ability to capture dance at the right moment. My many years in the industry may help with that as I know how a dancer would want to be seen.
You’ve been a busy lady lately! Tell us about some of your recent projects and what you have coming up in the near future.
Yes things have been mad! I am taking photos of Pasha’s current tour at the moment and am also blessed to be taking photos for some of the UK’s best performing arts colleges.
I did the Puttin' On Ritz tour for last two nights with Kristina Rihanofff, Robin Windsor, Trent Whiddon, Pixie Lott and Gordana Grandosek. Tomorrow I am on the Life Through Dance Tour with Pasha Kovalev and Anya Garnis where my dance school will also perform within the show at The Capitol Theatre in Horsham.
What are some of the challenges you face when shooting live shows?
The hardest thing about live shows is my positioning, as obviously the view for a paying audience has to come first. Where I can be located really depends on the venue, but is often at the back of the circle.
When shooting dance shows and performances such as the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour or Pasha Kovalev’s Life Through Dance, how many photos might you shoot during an average show? From that number, how many do you actually use or post?
On average I probably take about 500-600 photos for a full show, sometimes more if I haven’t seen it or photographed it before, less if I am more familiar with it. I guess I end up using maybe one in five photos and often only two in any hundred will be seen. It depends on the performer and whether I they wish to provide confirmation that they are happy with the photographs. I am now at the stage where some people trust me and my work and allow me to release photos without checking with them first.
In your opinion, what makes a good photograph?
I photograph with my heart and passion. I look to capture the performers’ emotions or a special moment!
Is there a photographic project thus far that you have found particularly interesting or fascinating?
I adore dance shows, but I would also like to do more animal and pet photography. I love live show work and the challenge of getting that ‘great’ dancer shot!
Obviously photography is your passion, but what other art forms are of interest to you?
Clearly I love performance, and this takes me to watch as many shows as possible. I also enjoy movies and music. The best time for me though is quality family time, such as days out or holidays, times that provide lifelong memories.
Earlier I mentioned my dance school – I love giving my students the goals, opportunities and self worth which I lacked as a child. I aim to provide them with as many dance performance opportunities as I possibly can - wonderful experiences which will provide them with amazing memories.
Tell us more about yourself. What do you do for fun? What (and who) do you like about Strictly Come Dancing? What would you like to be doing 5 years from now?
I am married with a 9 year old daughter and we have three cats. Often when I’m playing with my daughter we have so much fun that I forget that I am the adult!
Strictly – well the professionals are sublime. Most people underestimate the amount of work, sacrifice and dedication that they put into their work. I started studying ballroom and Latin dance when I was three and continued to do so for just over 16 years so I have a huge appreciation of how the professionals constantly strive for perfection.
I think my ultimate goal is to become the dancers’ photographer! I would love to be the one they rely upon to capture the live dance shows.
Any words for all the new fans of your work?
I love that people are enjoying my photos as much as I am capturing the things I love. I am so grateful for the love and support.
****************
I come from very very humble beginnings. I have a huge passion for dance and have run my own dance school for 24 years, keeping kids off streets, giving them goals, self worth and performance opportunities in West Sussex, UK. This has also led me to have another huge passion for live show photography. As an ex-dancer but still with a huge heart I try and capture a routine from a dancers and performers perspective. I have toured taking photos of Katya Virshilas & Pasha Kovalev last year. I am taking photos of Pasha’s tour this year. I took photos of all the top professional dance colleges at Move It at Olympia. As well as being on tour with Pasha Kovalev, I have also captured Camilla Dallerup, Robin Windsor and Kristina Rhianoff. I have also captured Miss Pole UK, The Gershwin Tour, Strictly Come Dancing Tour, Ballet Theatre UK to mention a few. Lots of exciting shoots in the pipeline! I am now official photographer for Anna Kennedy Online which works raising money and awareness for autism. I am also official photographer for various touring bands one being the The Rapiers. Dancers / performers seem to be really happy with my photos as I know how a dancer and performer feel. I try and capture a photo from my heart. I am growing and learning daily.
I have had photos published in the last two months issues of Dance Today as well as newspapers. I think I have more photos being published in next month's Dance Today. Love and blessings -Thank you for your kindness and belief in me. --Fiona
***************
For more information:
Twitter https://twitter.com/fionawhytepics
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fionawhytephotography
Website http://www.fionawhytephotography.co.uk/
****************
Many of us first noticed your work when we saw your beautiful photos from this year’s Strictly Come Dancing Live
tour, and we were surprised to learn that you got your start in photography fairly recently. How did you get started, what aspect of it interested you, and how did you end up doing performance photography/live show photography?
I first took photos in 2014 on Pasha Kovalev & Katya Virshilas’ UK tour. I have run my own dance school for almost 25 years and have a huge passion for dance and performance. Having recently lost my Mum the one thing I realized is that you can never have enough photographs, so I treated myself to a good camera. My dance school was participating in two performances of the tour and that’s where I took my first photos. After that I was thrilled to be asked to photograph several other performances on the tour. I seem to have been blessed with the ability to capture dance at the right moment. My many years in the industry may help with that as I know how a dancer would want to be seen.
You’ve been a busy lady lately! Tell us about some of your recent projects and what you have coming up in the near future.
Yes things have been mad! I am taking photos of Pasha’s current tour at the moment and am also blessed to be taking photos for some of the UK’s best performing arts colleges.
I did the Puttin' On Ritz tour for last two nights with Kristina Rihanofff, Robin Windsor, Trent Whiddon, Pixie Lott and Gordana Grandosek. Tomorrow I am on the Life Through Dance Tour with Pasha Kovalev and Anya Garnis where my dance school will also perform within the show at The Capitol Theatre in Horsham.
What are some of the challenges you face when shooting live shows?
The hardest thing about live shows is my positioning, as obviously the view for a paying audience has to come first. Where I can be located really depends on the venue, but is often at the back of the circle.
When shooting dance shows and performances such as the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour or Pasha Kovalev’s Life Through Dance, how many photos might you shoot during an average show? From that number, how many do you actually use or post?
On average I probably take about 500-600 photos for a full show, sometimes more if I haven’t seen it or photographed it before, less if I am more familiar with it. I guess I end up using maybe one in five photos and often only two in any hundred will be seen. It depends on the performer and whether I they wish to provide confirmation that they are happy with the photographs. I am now at the stage where some people trust me and my work and allow me to release photos without checking with them first.
In your opinion, what makes a good photograph?
I photograph with my heart and passion. I look to capture the performers’ emotions or a special moment!
Is there a photographic project thus far that you have found particularly interesting or fascinating?
I adore dance shows, but I would also like to do more animal and pet photography. I love live show work and the challenge of getting that ‘great’ dancer shot!
Obviously photography is your passion, but what other art forms are of interest to you?
Clearly I love performance, and this takes me to watch as many shows as possible. I also enjoy movies and music. The best time for me though is quality family time, such as days out or holidays, times that provide lifelong memories.
Earlier I mentioned my dance school – I love giving my students the goals, opportunities and self worth which I lacked as a child. I aim to provide them with as many dance performance opportunities as I possibly can - wonderful experiences which will provide them with amazing memories.
Tell us more about yourself. What do you do for fun? What (and who) do you like about Strictly Come Dancing? What would you like to be doing 5 years from now?
I am married with a 9 year old daughter and we have three cats. Often when I’m playing with my daughter we have so much fun that I forget that I am the adult!
Strictly – well the professionals are sublime. Most people underestimate the amount of work, sacrifice and dedication that they put into their work. I started studying ballroom and Latin dance when I was three and continued to do so for just over 16 years so I have a huge appreciation of how the professionals constantly strive for perfection.
I think my ultimate goal is to become the dancers’ photographer! I would love to be the one they rely upon to capture the live dance shows.
Any words for all the new fans of your work?
I love that people are enjoying my photos as much as I am capturing the things I love. I am so grateful for the love and support.
****************
I come from very very humble beginnings. I have a huge passion for dance and have run my own dance school for 24 years, keeping kids off streets, giving them goals, self worth and performance opportunities in West Sussex, UK. This has also led me to have another huge passion for live show photography. As an ex-dancer but still with a huge heart I try and capture a routine from a dancers and performers perspective. I have toured taking photos of Katya Virshilas & Pasha Kovalev last year. I am taking photos of Pasha’s tour this year. I took photos of all the top professional dance colleges at Move It at Olympia. As well as being on tour with Pasha Kovalev, I have also captured Camilla Dallerup, Robin Windsor and Kristina Rhianoff. I have also captured Miss Pole UK, The Gershwin Tour, Strictly Come Dancing Tour, Ballet Theatre UK to mention a few. Lots of exciting shoots in the pipeline! I am now official photographer for Anna Kennedy Online which works raising money and awareness for autism. I am also official photographer for various touring bands one being the The Rapiers. Dancers / performers seem to be really happy with my photos as I know how a dancer and performer feel. I try and capture a photo from my heart. I am growing and learning daily.
I have had photos published in the last two months issues of Dance Today as well as newspapers. I think I have more photos being published in next month's Dance Today. Love and blessings -Thank you for your kindness and belief in me. --Fiona
***************
For more information:
Twitter https://twitter.com/fionawhytepics
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fionawhytephotography
Website http://www.fionawhytephotography.co.uk/
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***Our Interview With Jasmine Takacs***
April 8, 2015
Photo Courtesy of Richard Curwen Twitter
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo Courtesy of Richard Curwen Twitter
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Jasmine Takacs is a multi-faceted artist and performer who is not only a dancer but also a choreographer and model. We know her from Strictly Come Dancing and her brilliant work on the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour, but there is so much more! We got to know Jasmine a little better in this interview, and we will know you will enjoy it as much as we did!
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With such a diverse resume, you are always growing as an artist and must be incredibly busy year round. What do you enjoy doing during your rare time off?
First of all thank you for wanting to do this interview with me and thank you for your interest and support to me as an artist.
During my rare "time off" I enjoy seeing my close friends for coffees, go on a holiday in the sun, see a dance show, cinema or shopping.
Here is a little collage of my holiday to Dubai with Kristina [Rihanoff], where we also met up with Kevin [Clifton] & Karen [Hauer]. Also other pictures from “Strictly” nights out.
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With such a diverse resume, you are always growing as an artist and must be incredibly busy year round. What do you enjoy doing during your rare time off?
First of all thank you for wanting to do this interview with me and thank you for your interest and support to me as an artist.
During my rare "time off" I enjoy seeing my close friends for coffees, go on a holiday in the sun, see a dance show, cinema or shopping.
Here is a little collage of my holiday to Dubai with Kristina [Rihanoff], where we also met up with Kevin [Clifton] & Karen [Hauer]. Also other pictures from “Strictly” nights out.
Photos provided by Jasmine Takacs
Here are Joanne Clifton and I seeing our lovely friend Natasha Mould in Cats (the musical) during Strictly tour rehearsals 2015.
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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There is never really any "time off" though from my work and passion. Everything that I do can affect my dancing and creative mind so even on my perfect holiday I wake up, go to the gym, enjoy some breakfast, and then start my day of relaxing time once I have "taken my medicine" which is daily exercise as soon as I wake up. I also work with fitness dvd’s, fitness shoots, etc. too so I know that my muscles will pay off in beauty and pay the bills too. And for my dancing, of course I need a strong and flexible athletic body.
I am constantly looking for ways to improve my body and dancing, to maintain a strong fit beautiful body that is ready for challenges and intense dancing periods. I am always trying to fuel my body with the best nutrition possible at every meal for recovery and inner health too. Even when I am shopping I am constantly looking for inspiration for my photo shoots, dance costumes for shows, and everyday clothes that can make me look, feel and dance better.
Please tell us how you ended up as part of the Strictly Come Dancing family.
I got an email from my agent about an audition for a new show/UK tour that Craig Revel Horwood was directing in 2013 called "Strictly Confidential" starring Lisa Riley, Artem Chigvinstev, Natalie Lowe, and Ian Waite.
When I read the email I instantly knew and thought to myself, "I am doing this job - I want it!" I already had other work booked on the day of the audition so I got a friend to cover me and I paid her 200£ extra from my own money to cover me on this job I was meant to do just so I could be available for the audition. That's how much I wanted it...
I arrived to the audition tanned, full hair and makeup, new Latin heels, a little skirt (I was imagining I was a Strictly dancer already) - - I wanted the job really bad! The competition was hard. There were over 200 girls and after a few hours of sweat and hard auditions I got kept to the end finals and danced my heart and soul out to Craig Revel Horwood and the audition panel. I was there to get the job!
A few hours after the audition my agent called me to say they wanted to offer me the contract.
Cast of Strictly Confidential 2013
I am constantly looking for ways to improve my body and dancing, to maintain a strong fit beautiful body that is ready for challenges and intense dancing periods. I am always trying to fuel my body with the best nutrition possible at every meal for recovery and inner health too. Even when I am shopping I am constantly looking for inspiration for my photo shoots, dance costumes for shows, and everyday clothes that can make me look, feel and dance better.
Please tell us how you ended up as part of the Strictly Come Dancing family.
I got an email from my agent about an audition for a new show/UK tour that Craig Revel Horwood was directing in 2013 called "Strictly Confidential" starring Lisa Riley, Artem Chigvinstev, Natalie Lowe, and Ian Waite.
When I read the email I instantly knew and thought to myself, "I am doing this job - I want it!" I already had other work booked on the day of the audition so I got a friend to cover me and I paid her 200£ extra from my own money to cover me on this job I was meant to do just so I could be available for the audition. That's how much I wanted it...
I arrived to the audition tanned, full hair and makeup, new Latin heels, a little skirt (I was imagining I was a Strictly dancer already) - - I wanted the job really bad! The competition was hard. There were over 200 girls and after a few hours of sweat and hard auditions I got kept to the end finals and danced my heart and soul out to Craig Revel Horwood and the audition panel. I was there to get the job!
A few hours after the audition my agent called me to say they wanted to offer me the contract.
Cast of Strictly Confidential 2013
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
Since then (2013) I have been a part of the Strictly family and have been a dancer on the Strictly Confidential Tour, a Troupe Dancer on the live shows 2013 and 2014, Assistant Choreographer on group numbers in 2013, Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2015, Strictly Come Dancing BBC Worldwide Showcase 2015 Dancer and Assistant, and The People's Strictly 2015 Troupe Dancer and Assistant.
What kind of training and preparation did you need in order to do that jaw-dropping move with the silks on the tour? How did that come about?
Our choreographer Jason Gilkison asked me if I had any experience up on the silks, which I never had, but I was definitely up for giving it a go. I had a good feeling about it and was up for the last minute challenge! My flatmate is an acrobat so I had the right contacts to get in touch with the right people who could teach me how to do it.
I only had 3 hours of silk training the day before we left on tour....thanks to my years of lifting weights and stretching lots I have developed a strong and flexible body.
Along those same lines, how and where did you learn your 'silk' acrobatics?
I learnt by one of the teachers from the BBC show “Tumble” Amy Panther. We will be continuing my training and I have already learnt new tricks.
Back to Strictly Come Dancing for a moment. Do you have a favourite performance that you have been involved with on Strictly?
My favourite performance on Strictly must be the BBC showcase we did in Liverpool 2015 where we also got to dance with The Backstreet Boys. It was a dazzling 15 minute performance with 4 amazing group numbers with non-stop dancing plus I went up twice in the silks in heels! According to my aerial teacher I am the first one to do silks in Latin heels! I am basically pretty fearless!
What performances from the tour particularly impressed you?
I think the opening number of the tour was the most fun for me to dance. Here is a photo of what it looked like with me and Tristan.
What kind of training and preparation did you need in order to do that jaw-dropping move with the silks on the tour? How did that come about?
Our choreographer Jason Gilkison asked me if I had any experience up on the silks, which I never had, but I was definitely up for giving it a go. I had a good feeling about it and was up for the last minute challenge! My flatmate is an acrobat so I had the right contacts to get in touch with the right people who could teach me how to do it.
I only had 3 hours of silk training the day before we left on tour....thanks to my years of lifting weights and stretching lots I have developed a strong and flexible body.
Along those same lines, how and where did you learn your 'silk' acrobatics?
I learnt by one of the teachers from the BBC show “Tumble” Amy Panther. We will be continuing my training and I have already learnt new tricks.
Back to Strictly Come Dancing for a moment. Do you have a favourite performance that you have been involved with on Strictly?
My favourite performance on Strictly must be the BBC showcase we did in Liverpool 2015 where we also got to dance with The Backstreet Boys. It was a dazzling 15 minute performance with 4 amazing group numbers with non-stop dancing plus I went up twice in the silks in heels! According to my aerial teacher I am the first one to do silks in Latin heels! I am basically pretty fearless!
What performances from the tour particularly impressed you?
I think the opening number of the tour was the most fun for me to dance. Here is a photo of what it looked like with me and Tristan.
Photo Courtesy of Fiona Whyte Photography
"Let it Go" was the most impressive number, maybe because I was in the air at the same time showing off my flexibility and strength on the silks, and I think that brought something magical to the number with gorgeous dancing from the pros and me in the air in a split.
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
For those of us unable to see the tour, please tell us what dances you were part of.
I danced in the opening number, also Alison Hammond and Aljaz's Charleston...
I danced in the opening number, also Alison Hammond and Aljaz's Charleston...
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
...Thom Evans and Iveta's Salsa....
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
...Caroline Flack and Tristan's Charleston to "Istanbul (Not Constantinople)"...
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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...the "Let It Go" ballroom group number and the finale number.
Photo Courtesy of Fiona Whyte Photography
You have training in many different dance styles, but do you have a specific preference as a performer?
Yes, I am trained in many dance styles such as Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, Commercial but the Latin dance styles are my favourites.
As a choreographer?
I enjoy all sorts of styles when I get to create my own material depending on what job I do, but I tend to give my own work a Jazz/Latin feel.
What are your favorite Ballroom and Latin styles?
Rumba for Latin and Waltz and Tango for Ballroom.
We have to ask. Had you met Tristan before Strictly Come Dancing and how much did you get to work with him?
Of course I have met him on the series and the tour. He is a lovely dancer and nice personality. Always smiling and bringing a positive vibe to the room.
What do you consider to be the high points of your career thus far?
I consider many things as high points of my career. Here are a few examples: Dancing at 2 Brit Awards with CeeLo Green and Florence and the Machine, Dancing at the MTV Europe Music awards for top artists since 2008, and being a dancer at the London Olympics closing ceremonies. It was such a magical moment doing the big show knowing the whole world was watching, after 2 months rehearsals outside in the rain and then to be dancing on pointe with Darcey Bussell, One Direction, Pet Shop Boys, Fatboy Slim, Jessie J, and Tinie Tempah.
Also going on UK tours with Steps, Pasha Kovalev, Ant & Dec, Strictly Come Dancing & Strictly Confidential Tour starring Lisa Riley. Becoming a troupe dancer on the tv show since 2013 and a part of the Strictly Come Dancing family is, of course, one of the highlights that means the most to me.
Steps UK Tour 2012 / Strictly Confidential
Yes, I am trained in many dance styles such as Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, Commercial but the Latin dance styles are my favourites.
As a choreographer?
I enjoy all sorts of styles when I get to create my own material depending on what job I do, but I tend to give my own work a Jazz/Latin feel.
What are your favorite Ballroom and Latin styles?
Rumba for Latin and Waltz and Tango for Ballroom.
We have to ask. Had you met Tristan before Strictly Come Dancing and how much did you get to work with him?
Of course I have met him on the series and the tour. He is a lovely dancer and nice personality. Always smiling and bringing a positive vibe to the room.
What do you consider to be the high points of your career thus far?
I consider many things as high points of my career. Here are a few examples: Dancing at 2 Brit Awards with CeeLo Green and Florence and the Machine, Dancing at the MTV Europe Music awards for top artists since 2008, and being a dancer at the London Olympics closing ceremonies. It was such a magical moment doing the big show knowing the whole world was watching, after 2 months rehearsals outside in the rain and then to be dancing on pointe with Darcey Bussell, One Direction, Pet Shop Boys, Fatboy Slim, Jessie J, and Tinie Tempah.
Also going on UK tours with Steps, Pasha Kovalev, Ant & Dec, Strictly Come Dancing & Strictly Confidential Tour starring Lisa Riley. Becoming a troupe dancer on the tv show since 2013 and a part of the Strictly Come Dancing family is, of course, one of the highlights that means the most to me.
Steps UK Tour 2012 / Strictly Confidential
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Pasha Kovalev & Katya Virshilis UK Tour 2014
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
What do you have planned for the next few months?
I just got back from performing in Robin Windsor and Kristina Rihanoff's show on board Saga Cruises.
I just got back from performing in Robin Windsor and Kristina Rihanoff's show on board Saga Cruises.
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
Later in April me and my dance partner will be instructors and dance on the P&O Strictly Come Dancing cruises. Then I will see what happens. That's one of the exciting things of being a freelance dancer. I don't know what the universe has in store for me but I will continue to train hard and I know amazing things are on their way. :)
Finally, is there anything you would like to say to your growing number of fans?
I am truly grateful for the support my fans are giving me. It does mean so much to me when others want you to succeed and support my journey towards my dreams and goals. I always have a massive smile on my face when I speak to my fans and see what they do for me. I hope I can inspire my fans to follow their dreams and hearts, live their lives with passion, do what they love and wake up with a smile ready to conquer the world.
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More from Jasmine....
The Strictly Come Dancing troupe Boys Callum and Jake and I in the gym whilst on tour and an example of one of my many stretches.
Finally, is there anything you would like to say to your growing number of fans?
I am truly grateful for the support my fans are giving me. It does mean so much to me when others want you to succeed and support my journey towards my dreams and goals. I always have a massive smile on my face when I speak to my fans and see what they do for me. I hope I can inspire my fans to follow their dreams and hearts, live their lives with passion, do what they love and wake up with a smile ready to conquer the world.
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More from Jasmine....
The Strictly Come Dancing troupe Boys Callum and Jake and I in the gym whilst on tour and an example of one of my many stretches.
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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BBC Showcase Liverpool 2015
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
I loved dancing the Michael Jackson medley group number in Blackpool 2014.
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
Florence and The Machine Brit Awards 2012
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
CeeLo Green / Brit Awards 2011
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Olympics Closing Ceremonies 2012
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Dancing on the MTV Europe music awards since 2008 until current date in different countries for artists such as Katy Perry, Pink, Pitbull, Taylor Swift, Carly Rae Jepsen and Kesha.
Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Photo provided by Jasmine Takacs
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Strictly Come Dancing UK Tour 2015
Photos provided by Jasmine Takacs
Photos provided by Jasmine Takacs
Thanks to Jasmine for taking time to answer our questions and for providing us with so many wonderful photos. We can't wait to see what's next for this very talented performer!
Follow Jasmine on Twitter and Instagram here:
https://twitter.com/JasmineTakacs @JasmineTakacs
https://instagram.com/jasminetakacs/ @JasmineTakacs
Please leave comments for Jasmine on our blog where this interview is also posted. Link below:
http://www.macmaniacs.org/macmusings/interview-with-jasmine-takacs
Most photos were provided to us by Jasmine and are fully owned by the photographers.
Follow Jasmine on Twitter and Instagram here:
https://twitter.com/JasmineTakacs @JasmineTakacs
https://instagram.com/jasminetakacs/ @JasmineTakacs
Please leave comments for Jasmine on our blog where this interview is also posted. Link below:
http://www.macmaniacs.org/macmusings/interview-with-jasmine-takacs
Most photos were provided to us by Jasmine and are fully owned by the photographers.