Madison Casani

What companies/classes are you currently in?

I am currently in Sr. CATS, Tap CATS, and Hoofers Club.

When did you start at Center Stage?

I started in 2004 when I was 3 years old.

Do you remember your first dance routine?

I don’t remember my first dance, but one of my first dances that I remember was a Happy Feet tap dance.

What was your Center Stage journey?

I started out in a combined ballet and tap class then auditioned for the Kittens company when I was 7. Ever since then I’ve worked my way through the companies, all the way up to Sr. CATS, where I’ve been for the past 4 years. I also started tap company when I was 8 or 9 and now I am in the highest tap company, Hoofers.

Which was your favorite Nationals, and why? What happened there?

My favorite nationals was definitely my first one in Hershey, PA. I just remember being so excited to go some place fun with all of my friends and also being able to dance there. We were the first group of Jr. CATS that were in Mickey’s production and that were taken to nationals so that was something really special for all of us.

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

I’ve had to make countless sacrifices over the years, but it’s the experiences that I’ve had, the endless memories I’ve made, and the friendships that will last forever that make it all worth it.

Do you do other outside of school activities?

Other than dancing here, I am a part of a performing arts program at my school where I do many shows throughout the year. I’m also a member of the Care Club at my school, which is basically a club that’s dedicated to community service.

What’s your favorite movie and why?

I change my mind all the time but right now it’s probably The Greatest Showman. I’m obsessed with the soundtrack and to be honest I wish I was in it. I also recently saw Bohemian Rhapsody which was amazing and I loved learning the story of Freddie Mercury and the rest of Queen.

Favorite Broadway show?

Even though there’s no dancing in it and it’s not like a typical happy broadway show, I really love Dear Evan Hansen.

First Broadway show?

I never really went to Broadway shows when I was younger, so my first show was Newsies for my 13th birthday.

Favorite food?

Probably mac and cheese.

First celebrity crush?

I don’t remember my first celebrity crush, but currently it’s Brendon Urie and Grant Gustin.

TV Show you’re embarrassed to admit you used to watch?

I’ve never watched anything that I’d be embarrassed about, but I am a huge fan of The Flash.

How do you feel about being the only sister with 2 brothers?

It’s not as bad as people make it out to be, like in movies and stuff. I actually like it better than if I had a sister, because I feel like we would always fight over clothes or sharing a room. Having a younger brother for 14 years and then two for the past 9, I’m gonna have to get used to not having them around all the time when I go to college.

What are you irrationally afraid of?

Big open spaces and the dark of course.

What do you wish you knew how to do that you can’t right now?

I wish I knew how to do so many things. These are really random but I really want to learn how to do a backflip and write left-handed. I also want to learn how to play an instrument, specifically guitar, piano, or drums.

Who is your hero and why?

I haven’t really thought about having a hero, but someone I look up to is Brendon Urie. He’s just a very talented and inspiring and positive and accepting person who genuinely cares about other people, and unfortunately there aren’t many other people like that. He is also a big advocate for human rights and started a foundation in support of that, which is something that I admire a lot, especially in today’s society that seems to be overcome with hatred.

What’s next?

I plan to go to college, most likely at my top choice which is West Chester University in Pennsylvania, and major in Forensic Science with a minor in Dance.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Hopefully either dancing on a stage somewhere or in a crime lab.. very different expectations, but I have high hopes that things will work out the way they are supposed to for me. 

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

I will 100% be coming back to visit. Center Stage will always be my second home and I plan on keeping the relationships I’ve made with friends and teachers forever.