Maya Ter-Akopov

What companies/classes are you currently in?

Hybrid company and Hip hip company.  

When did you start at Center Stage?

I started Center Stage in 2016 

Do you remember your first dance routine?

I can’t remember what it was called, but I recall having Amanda as my jazz teacher and we did a James bond theme dance. 

What was your Center Stage Journey?

I joined in 2016 at the Marlboro studio where I took Jazz with Amanda my first year. In 2018 I auditioned for Jazzcats and was informed that I had become an apprentice. A couple dances I remember doing that year for competition were Latin, We are the Ones, and Be Italian. Jumping to summer 2021, I auditioned for our studios first hip hop company and a week later found out I was in! Now, I am a Hybrid company dancer as well as a Hip Hop company dancer. 

Why has it been worth all of the energy you’ve put into it and the sacrifices you’ve made?

While dancing at Center Stage, I not only made so many amazing friends along the way, but dancing itself helped me build my confidence. 

What other outside of school activities do you do?

When I’m not dancing I’m volunteering for my community’s special needs swim team (The Marlins). 

 What stories will you tell your grandkids about getting through COVID?

On March 13th, the day before our battle of the classes, I remember the principal announcing two weeks off due to this virus. Knowing nothing about it and not taking it seriously, I was excited about the whole no-school thing until these two weeks turned into four months. It wasn't easy getting back into my routine as I was home most of the time. I even remember in the very beginning, if I heard or saw someone cough or sneeze, I would get scared. 

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?

My go to ice cream flavor is definitely a good chocolate caramel fudge with pretzels or a simple chocolate and vanilla twist. 

 What is the last TV show you binge-watched?

Peaky Blinders 

 If you could have any animal for a pet, what would it be?

I would have to pick a Koala

 What invention should exist but doesn’t…yet?

Flying cars 

 Who is your favorite Disney character?

Winnie the Pooh 

 What makes you proud about today’s teenagers?

How we all understand and support each other, especially after experiencing real-life crises over the past years 

What would you like to change about today’s teenagers?

Cellphone use 

If you could live in any decade, which one would it be?

Honestly early 2000s was the best era, it was in my opinion the peak in music and just the simple days. 

What’s next?

I will be attending Seton Hall University, where I hope to complete my bachelors and masters. I am currently going in as undecided. I am excited to start a new chapter in my life and see where this journey takes me! 

 Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Hopefully finished with college and getting on track with my career. 

 Will you come back to visit Center Stage, or are you gone for good when you’re out the door?

Of course I will come and visit!!!!