artiste Nov/Dec | Page 16

Dancer

Director

Producer

Choreographer

Instructor

What is your wildest artistic dream? Not for print!!!!!

What was your favorite ______________, (play, piece. etc) that you have worked on? I think that it would have been a “James Bond” routine that had special effects, wigs, video, props, etc. It was quite enjoyable to see the finished dance on stage with the tech crew at its finest.

Which was the most challenging? The most challenging routine was the 50th Anniversary of my Studio and getting all of the former teachers who could dance integrated into a “Celebration Routine” along with my active dancers. It was stressful, but Ohhhhh so rewarding when the final

product danced on without a hitch!

What did you learn from it? I learned that there is a history with every business and they all had an investment in it, whether they are past or present.

Did it cause you to break your own creative barriers? I broke every barrier that year of the Anniversary. I couldn’t even get out of my pajamas for 48 hours after that show. I learned that as long as you keep good solid, loyal, caring, and talented people around you (whether it is business or family, you will make a difference.

Who was your first inspiration? Why? My first “Dance” inspiration that

turned me around was Merry

Joy Gerami. She kept me focused and was a caring mentor. My every day personal inspiration and still is…..my husband, Don Landry. He has always been there, backed me up, listened to my highs and lows and was and still is supportive.

Why have you chosen to stay in Acadiana? The same reason that anyone stays in this area. Family and Fun! When I was younger, I wanted to leave and be that dancer on TV or in the Movies……but, when you have Don Landry and supportive children that just happen to like to dance, it was an easy decision to tell myself….”Stay home and teach the future of Dance”