Photo Credit: Jamy Hsu
Dance Mogul: What has been some of the hardships you have encountered while pursuing your dreams?
JoVonna: Well, pursuing your dreams will always be hard no matter what, but if you want it you’ll work for it. Honestly, I think finding emotional and mental stability is one of the struggles I face while actively pursuing my career as do other dancers. It will be ok even if it seems like all hope is lost. An old teacher of mine once said the mind and the heart must be calloused if you want to make it in this business. Another big struggle is keeping finances in order, especially during the offseason. I’m sure every dancer struggles with this one especially when you are fresh out of college or just starting out, balancing a “regular” job while pursuing your dance career. Although the “regular” job is probably where the bulk of an artists income comes from, sometimes it’s hard to make time for pursuing your dream especially if the dream isn’t paying enough to sustain.
Dance Mogul: Despite those hardships, what motivates you to keep pursuing your dreams?
JoVonna: I cannot imagine my life without dance and I think that is what motivates me the most. It allows me to explore and find myself and to be myself.
Dance Mogul: What advice do you have for the next generation of dancers?
JoVonna: I would tell he/she, if this is what you want, to be a dancer, you have to fight for it. It’s going to be fun, but it will be hard. Stay confident and be a helping you person. Never lose sight of yourself, besides you should be the most important person to yourself. Also to have a plan b, if you realize dance isn’t for you explore your other interests, it can’t hurt.
Dance Mogul: Is there anybody you would like to thank for helping you on your journey?
JoVonna: The one person I would like to thank is my mom. She put me in dance and she had supported me through my entire journey into the present day when I joined Elisa Monte Dance. I know that she will continue to support even when the day comes that I decide to pursue other interests. No matter what she is there for me and I couldn’t be more grateful.
