Resources for Competitive Dancers

Success Stories

“I am here to show you that anything is possible if you work hard and follow your dreams.”

Misty Copeland

Ballet dancer, public speaker, author, celebrity spokesperson and stage performer.

“Dance is about the connection and communication between people, and I think that’s why it resonates with so many.”
Derek Hough

Dancer, choreographer, actor, singer, television judge.

Derek Hough’s career began in competitive dance, where he achieved success in various dance styles. Moving to Los Angeles, he transitioned into television, becoming a standout performer on “Dancing with the Stars.” His innovative choreography and charismatic performances earned him multiple Emmy Awards and solidified his status as a leading figure in dance.
 
- Won six Mirrorball trophies on “Dancing with the Stars.”
- Nominated for and won multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Choreography.
- Released the best-selling book “Taking the Lead: Lessons from a Life in Motion.”
 
Derek Hough has shared several strategies that have contributed to his success as a dancer, choreographer, and entertainer:
 
Relentless Practice and Hard Work. Hough is a strong believer in the power of practice. He often emphasizes that hard work and dedication are essential in mastering any craft. He has spent countless hours refining his dance techniques, choreography, and performance skills.
 
Versatility and Adaptability. Hough has always embraced versatility in his career. He has explored different dance styles and creative endeavors, from ballroom to contemporary dance, acting, and music. He believes that being adaptable and open to learning new things has broadened his opportunities.
 
Creative Risk-Taking. Hough encourages taking creative risks and stepping outside of comfort zones. He often pushes the boundaries with his choreography, experimenting with new ideas and concepts that keep his work fresh and exciting.
 
Passion and Positivity. Hough credits his passion for dance and performing as a driving force behind his success. He maintains a positive attitude, which helps him stay motivated and resilient in the face of challenges. His enthusiasm and energy are also contagious, often inspiring those he works with.
 
Collaboration and Teamwork. Hough recognizes the importance of collaboration in achieving success. Whether it's with dance partners, fellow choreographers, or production teams, he values teamwork and believes that working well with others leads to better outcomes.
 
Continuous Learning. Even with his success, Hough remains a student of his craft. He is always eager to learn new techniques, styles, and approaches, believing that continuous learning is key to growth and longevity in the entertainment industry.
 
Embracing Challenges. Hough sees challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether it's dealing with injuries, tough competition, or high-pressure performances, he approaches challenges with determination and uses them as fuel to improve and succeed.
 
By applying these strategies, Derek Hough has built a highly successful career, winning multiple awards on "Dancing with the Stars," creating memorable performances, and expanding his influence in various areas of entertainment.

“Believe in yourself and keep pushing forward. You never know what’s possible until you try.”
Julianne Hough

Dancer, actress, television personality.

Julianne Hough’s dance career began at a young age, with a background in ballroom dance. She rose to fame on “Dancing with the Stars” where she won two Mirrorball trophies. Her career expanded into acting and music, showcasing her versatility and broad talent. Julianne has continued to evolve as a performer and entrepreneur.
 
- Won two Mirrorball trophies on “Dancing with the Stars.”
- Starred in films such as “Footloose” and “Rock of Ages.”
- Released a successful country music album and authored the book “Julianne Hough: My Full Circle.”
 
Here are several strategies and principles that Julianne Hough has shared, which have contributed to her success as a dancer, singer, actress, and entrepreneur:
 
Passion and Purpose. Julianne Hough emphasizes the importance of following your passion and finding a sense of purpose in what you do. She believes that when you are passionate about something, it drives you to work harder and stay committed, even in tough times.
 
Dedication and Hard Work. Hough credits her success to her strong work ethic and dedication. From a young age, she trained intensively in dance, often putting in long hours to perfect her craft. She believes that success is a result of consistent effort and not giving up when faced with challenges.
 
Embracing Fear and Vulnerability. Hough has spoken about the importance of embracing fear and vulnerability as part of the growth process. She encourages taking risks, stepping out of comfort zones, and not being afraid to fail. This mindset has helped her tackle new challenges in her career, whether it’s dancing, acting, or singing.
 
Self-Care and Balance. Hough is an advocate for self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. She emphasizes the importance of taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This includes regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and making time for things that bring joy and relaxation.
 
Continuous Learning and Growth. Julianne Hough believes in the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. She’s always looking for ways to improve her skills and expand her horizons, whether through new roles in entertainment, exploring different creative outlets, or personal development.
 
Staying True to Yourself. Hough stresses the importance of authenticity and staying true to who you are. She believes that being genuine and honest with yourself and others is key to long-term success and fulfillment. This has guided her decisions in her career and personal life.
 
Building Strong Relationships. Hough values the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships, both personally and professionally. She believes that surrounding yourself with supportive and positive people can help you stay grounded and motivated.
 
Using Platform for Good. Hough has used her platform to advocate for causes she believes in, such as health and wellness, animal rights, and social issues. She believes that using her influence to make a positive impact is an essential part of her success.
 
By applying these strategies, Julianne Hough has not only achieved success in multiple areas of entertainment but has also maintained a balanced and fulfilling life.
 

“Dance is a celebration of movement and a way of expressing what words cannot.”
Nigel Lythgoe

Television director, film director, television producer, film producer, screenwriter, television personality, choreographer, former dancer.

Nigel Lythgoe, a British dancer and choreographer, initially gained recognition in the UK as a performer and choreographer. He transitioned to television, becoming a prominent figure as a judge and executive producer on “So You Think You Can Dance.” Lythgoe’s vision helped popularize dance on television and provided a platform for emerging dancers.
 
- Co-created and executive produced “So You Think You Can Dance,” which has had a significant impact on dance culture.
- Choreographed for major productions including “Cats” and “A Chorus Line.”
- Received numerous accolades for his contributions to dance television.
 
Nigel Lythgoe has shared several strategies and insights that have contributed to his success in the entertainment industry:
 
Hard Work and Dedication. Lythgoe has always emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication. His journey from a dancer to a television producer and executive was marked by relentless effort and a commitment to mastering every role he took on. He believes that success comes from consistently putting in the work and striving for excellence.
 
Adaptability and Innovation. Lythgoe is known for his ability to adapt and innovate within the entertainment industry. He played a pivotal role in creating and producing successful television shows like "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance." He’s spoken about the importance of staying ahead of trends, being open to new ideas, and continually evolving to meet the changing demands of audiences.
 
Attention to Detail. Lythgoe believes that attention to detail is crucial in producing high-quality work. Whether it’s in choreography, production, or talent management, he has always been meticulous about the finer points that can elevate a performance or a show from good to exceptional.
 
Passion for the Arts. Lythgoe’s deep passion for dance and the performing arts has been a driving force throughout his career. He believes that having a genuine love for what you do fuels your creativity and perseverance, even when faced with challenges.
 
Mentorship and Collaboration. Lythgoe has spoken about the value of mentorship and collaboration in the entertainment industry. He has mentored numerous dancers and performers and has always encouraged collaboration between creatives. He believes that working together and learning from others is key to creating successful projects.
 
Embracing Risk. Lythgoe has often taken risks in his career, whether it was moving from performing to production or launching new television formats. He believes that taking calculated risks is essential for growth and innovation in any field.
 
Creating Opportunities. Lythgoe is a strong advocate for creating opportunities for others, particularly in the arts. Through shows like "So You Think You Can Dance," he has provided platforms for dancers to showcase their talent and achieve their dreams. He believes that success also involves helping others succeed.
 
Resilience and Perseverance. Lythgoe’s career has had its ups and downs, but he has always maintained a resilient attitude. He emphasizes the importance of persevering through setbacks and staying focused on long-term goals.
 
By applying these strategies, Nigel Lythgoe has built a successful and influential career in the entertainment industry, shaping the landscape of reality television and promoting the performing arts on a global scale.
 

“Dance is about expressing yourself and your emotions. It’s a powerful form of communication.”
Peta Murgatroyd

Dancer, choreographer.

Peta Murgatroyd began her professional dance career in Australia before making a name for herself on “Dancing with the Stars.” Known for her vibrant personality and dynamic performances, Peta has won two Mirrorball trophies and established herself as a prominent figure in the world of competitive dance and television.
 
- Won two Mirrorball trophies on “Dancing with the Stars.”
- Choreographed and performed in various international dance productions.
- Known for her role in promoting dance as a form of personal expression and art.
 
Peta Murgatroyd has shared several strategies that have contributed to her success:
 
Relentless Practice and Perseverance. Murgatroyd emphasizes the importance of relentless practice and perseverance in achieving success. She has spoken about the long hours of training and the dedication required to perfect her dance routines, especially under the high-pressure environment of competitive dancing.
 
Positive Mindset. Murgatroyd believes in maintaining a positive mindset, even in the face of challenges. She focuses on staying optimistic, which helps her push through difficult times, whether it’s dealing with injuries, tough competition, or personal challenges.
 
Adaptability and Flexibility. In the world of dance, Murgatroyd has learned the importance of being adaptable and flexible. Whether it’s learning new styles, working with different dance partners, or adjusting to changes in choreography, she emphasizes the need to be open to change and willing to adjust quickly.
 
Physical Fitness and Health. Murgatroyd takes her physical fitness and health very seriously, understanding that a strong, healthy body is crucial for a successful dance career. She follows a disciplined fitness routine, including strength training, cardio, and a balanced diet, to maintain her physical condition.
 
Emotional Connection in Performance. Murgatroyd often speaks about the importance of creating an emotional connection with the audience. She believes that dance is not just about technical skill but also about conveying emotions and telling a story through movement. This emotional depth has been a key factor in her captivating performances.
 
Continuous Learning and Growth. Murgatroyd is always looking to learn and grow as a dancer and performer. She takes every opportunity to improve her skills, learn new techniques, and expand her repertoire, believing that continuous learning is essential for long-term success.
 
Mentorship and Giving Back. Murgatroyd values mentorship and giving back to the dance community. She has mentored younger dancers and encourages others to share their knowledge and experiences, fostering a supportive environment within the dance world.
 
By applying these strategies, Peta Murgatroyd has built a successful career as a professional dancer and has become a well-respected figure in the dance community.