Lindsay Chapman
What companies/classes are you currently in?
Currently, I am in the Senior Cat Company.
When did you start at Center Stage?
I started at Center Stage when I was about six years old.
Do you remember your first dance routine?
Yes! My first dance routine was a hip-hop number choreographed by Tori Moots.
What was your Center Stage Journey?
I began my journey at Center Stage when I was about six years old, taking one hip-hop class during the week. This quickly evolved into trying out for the competition team two seasons later and competing with a jazz number titled “Let’s Get Loud” choreographed by Danielle Mondi. From there, I continued competing with my Ocean competition team and soon joined the Jazz Cats, where I was dancing in Marlboro and starting to really grow as a competitive dancer. Throughout the years, I have also been a part of the Ocean Tap Team as well as the Ocean Hoofers. Soon enough, I started taking many more classes at the East Brunswick studio, where I was given the opportunity to grow even more by becoming a member of the Hip-Hop Company and becoming a Senior Cat Dancer. As I am rounding out my final year at the studio, I am so grateful for all of the memories and experiences that I have gained as well as all that I have learned from all the amazing teachers I have had throughout the years.
Why has it been worth all of the energy you’ve put into it and the sacrifices you’ve made?
Although being a competitive dancer takes up a lot of my time outside of school and has required many sacrifices, I would definitely say that it has all been worth it. Being a dancer at Center Stage for most of my life has provided me with some of my best friends whose relationships I cherish, it has provided me with an environment to push myself to become a more advanced dancer, and it has also allowed me to compete at a high level.
Though you’ve spent a lot of time in the East Brunswick studio, most of your time has been at the Ocean studio. Can you describe how Ocean feels different from other studios?
Growing up at Center Stage, I have spent so much of my time at the Ocean studio. Although I love the opportunities that are available at the East Brunswick studio, it does not compare to the family-like feel that is present at the Ocean Studio. With a much smaller space, everyone there becomes so close-knit and I really love that, especially when Krystle makes everyone feel so welcomed and loved.
How has growing up near the shore been different than you think it would be in other parts of New Jersey?
Growing up near the shore definitely has its perks in the summer. Living within a 15-minute drive to the beach, my summers are filled with many beach days, and I could not imagine living anywhere else. Although I am sure that other parts of New Jersey have their own summer fun, nothing compares to beach days, ice cream runs on the boardwalk, or drives down Ocean Avenue.
Do you do any other outside-of-school activities?
Other than being a competitive dancer, I am involved in many outside-of-school activities such as being a member of the Varsity Soccer team, being the Head Student Leader for the Tinton Falls Junior Police Academy, and also playing pickleball with my mom!
Did you have an imaginary friend? What do you remember about him/her? Is she/he still around?
From what I can remember, no, I never had an imaginary friend.
Did you have an embarrassing family nickname when you were little?
I don’t remember ever having an embarrassing family nickname when I was little.
Who was your first celebrity crush?
My first celebrity crush was definitely Justin Bieber.
TV Show you’re embarrassed to admit you used to watch?
A TV Show that I am embarrassed to admit I used to watch (but still do) is Keeping Up With the Kardashians.
What personal quality do you have that you think will be the greatest asset to giving you a happy life? Where did you learn or acquire it?
A personal quality that I have that I believe will be the greatest asset to giving me a happy life is probably my optimism. I am not sure how I acquired this, but I always try to look on the bright side and maintain a positive mindset whenever problems arise.
What’s next?
Next, I will be attending college! I have applied to all of my prospective schools and am just waiting to hear back. I plan to major in finance, and possibly incorporate dance into my life at whichever campus I end up on!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I see myself in a career where I am thriving and successful. At that point, I will also be 28 years old, so maybe starting a family as well!
Will you come back to visit Center Stage, or are you gone for good when you’re out the door?
After I graduate, I will definitely come back to Center Stage to visit. Considering I have been a part of the studio for more than half of my life, I have so many friends and memories that I won’t ever forget.