Dance Mogul Exclusive Interview…
Dance Mogul: When did you develop a love for dance?
Chantelle: I developed a love for dance the minute my mum enrolled me in my first dance class at age 3. I was a very shy child and initially wouldn’t dance in class. Instead, I’d wait until we got home and perform everything my teacher had taught me in the living room! Since then, I’ve never left dance—I’m still training, and it’s become my whole world.
Dance Mogul: Who were some of your inspirations?
Chantelle: My number one inspiration is Robyn Hurder, a Broadway icon and a testament to what hard work and dedication can achieve. Growing up, I idolized Catherine Zeta-Jones, especially in Chicago, which has been my dream for as long as I can remember. I am also inspired daily by those I grew up dancing with. Many of my close friends and teachers have gone on to do incredible things, and that’s what this industry is all about being surrounded by people who are driven to progress and succeed alongside one another.
Dance Mogul: How did you develop a work ethic to be progressive and successful?
Chantelle: Being immersed in dance and performing from such a young age, I think the discipline of this art form shaped my work ethic. If it wasn’t something I loved, that work ethic wouldn’t be there. Like any other athlete, we constantly work on our bodies, minds, and stamina to get through the next audition, job, or class. If it’s something your heart is set on, that drive is simply embedded in you.
Dance Mogul: Did you have family support?
Chantelle: Absolutely. As I mentioned earlier, I started dancing at 3, so my parents were my biggest supporters as a child and into my late teens. They watched every show, paid for my classes and costumes, and supported my ambitions. My extended family has also been incredibly supportive, and I couldn’t have achieved what I have without them.
Dance Mogul: When did you realize you could be a professional?
Chantelle: At age 12, I moved to a new dance studio where I could progress further. I saw the caliber of the senior dancers there and thought, That’s what I want to do. Many former dancers from that studio were in musicals across Australia, dancing with artists and appearing in music videos—things a 12-year-old didn’t know were possible. From then on, I dedicated myself fully, never missing a class and putting all my energy into honing my craft.
Dance Mogul: What have been some of your most memorable dance moments?
Chantelle: Since I was about 18, I’ve had the privilege of being part of incredible shows and companies. In Melbourne, I was cast as the lead in Cabaret Parisien, a show that took audiences on a journey through classic French and burlesque styles. Performing iconic numbers from Burlesque by Cher and Christina Aguilera was a pivotal experience for me as both a singer and dancer. I’ve also been lucky enough to support artists like Chencho Corleone, Will Sparks, Havana Brown, DJ Neptune, and Cali Swag District. Earlier this year, I made my choreographic debut with YoChi for an advertising campaign.
Dance Mogul: How did you manage through the pandemic and day-to-day in 2020?
Chantelle: Interestingly, I was actually in NYC when the pandemic struck in March 2020.
I arrived in January on a scholarship for Broadway Dance Center’s program but was sent back home due to the shutdowns. I had several canceled flights before finally making it back to Australia, where I rode out the next few years. It was tough, as the arts weren’t considered essential. When I returned, I continued my classes virtually, turning my bedroom and backyard into my studio. It was exhausting, challenging, and a real eye-opener. Staying motivated throughout 2020 was incredibly difficult.
Dance Mogul: How has 2020 impacted your artistic decisions and progress?
Chantelle: 2020 put a hold on many decisions and slowed my progress. Before the pandemic, I was preparing to make a permanent move to NYC, but the uncertainty forced me to let go of that dream temporarily. I focused on creating work for myself in Melbourne until things returned to normal. By 2021, we were able to create and perform again, and I found myself learning new skills with new people in diverse environments, which shaped a new path for me. I’m finally ready to return to my original plan and head back to NYC next May.
Dance Mogul: What advice do you have for artists as we work toward normalcy?
Chantelle: Don’t give up. This advice is universal, but it’s the consistency, passion, drive, and persistence that gets you where you want to be. Talent alone won’t get you hired if you aren’t putting in the work. Also, just be yourself. If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that life and our careers are too short to try being someone else. Your path is yours and yours alone—don’t forget that.
Dance Mogul: What would you like your legacy with dance to look like 20 years from now?
Chantelle: I’d love to look back and see all my dreams realized—Broadway musicals, artist tours, and, most importantly, memories of my family and friends witnessing my years of hard work pay off.
Dance Mogul: Is there anyone you’d like to thank for helping you on your journey?
Chantelle: As I mentioned, my family has been my foundation. My mum, dad, sister, and grandparents have supported me since day one. Over the years, my incredible mentors and teachers have guided me, and I am endlessly grateful to them. My partner and close friends, who watch me leave for months at a time to chase my dreams, have been by my side from afar. No one has gone unnoticed; their patience and support have made me who I am today.
