Camrie Plummer
What companies/classes are you currently in?
I am currently a member of the Senior CATS company, Hip Hop Company, and the Elite Hip Hip Company.
When did you start at Center Stage?
I began dancing at Center Stage at the old East Brunswick studio when I was 3 years old.
Do you remember your first dance routine?
My first-ever dance routine at Center Stage was a tap dance and I was a Jitterbug. Fun fact, I stood on stage the entire time looking for my family in the audience.
What was your Center Stage journey?
I started taking recreational combo classes when I was three. At six, I joined my first company, Cubs, led by Ms. Sue. From there, I made my way through Jr. CATS and Jr. Tap Cats for four years. During this time, some of my best memories were created and the best friendships were formed. I was In 7th grade when I made it into CATS company with Mickey and It was also at this time that I stopped tapping, sorry George :(
Why has it been worth all of the energy you’ve put into it and the sacrifices you’ve made?
Center Stage is where I essentially grew up and created some of my life's most treasured memories. The lifelong friendships and fundamental life skills gained, by far outweigh the sacrifices and the never-ending juggling act to balance everyday life. The endless hours spent at the studio week after week have helped me tap into my inner self through creativity and perseverance. Being part of the same community for the past 14 years has largely contributed to the person I’ve become.
Do you do other extracurricular activities?
Outside of my time spent at the studio, I am a part of a lot of different clubs and groups at my school. I am a member of the French National Honor Society and serve as a Student Ambassador for my school. This year I am also teaching two classes at the studio which I love and am excited to continue doing for the rest of the year.
You are graduating as the very first second-generation Center Stage company member. Your mom was a FOUNDING MEMBER of Tap CATS. How was her guidance helpful to you in navigating the Center Stage company experience?
First, I think it is very funny that she was a Tap Cat and I didn’t keep up that legacy. Even though at times I was a bit rude to her in the dressing room at competitions, or rolled my eyes when she tried to give me corrections about my solos and technique, I would never have made it without her. 90% of the time she knew what she was talking about and I am truly thankful for her advice and guidance. She has spent countless hours sitting in the Center Stage parking lot watching me through the window making sure I was “ finishing through my lines'' as she would say. I don’t say it enough but thank you, mom!
Who are your role models? Whose life and values, either from your personal life or famous people, would you like to emulate?
My role model would probably be my brother Myles. He is my exact opposite, yet I have looked up to him for most of my life. He is very laid back and doesn’t worry about much, however, I, on the other hand, get scared and panic very easily. He also could care less what people think about him, which is very admirable.
If you could get rid of one thing in the world, what would it be?
Definitely racism, I just think right now it makes the world a really ugly place, and if it was gone more people would be able to get along and live in a place with less hate.
If you won Power Ball, how would it change your life? What would you do with your winnings?
More money means more opportunities to make greater impacts and be a blessing to those in need. If I won the Power Ball, I would create opportunities and lifelong experiences for underprivileged youth to positively impact their future.
What’s your favorite movie and why?
Hairspray! I grew up watching it with my mom and we still dance and sing every song as if it were our first time watching it.
TV Show you are embarrassed to admit you used to watch? Or STILL, watch?
I watched Jessie on the Disney Channel for way too long, which is very embarrassing because the show was not that good.
What makes you laugh?
I laugh at almost anything lol! I have a really bad habit of laughing during very serious conversations or in awkward situations.
What’s next?
In the fall I will be attending the University of Virginia where I am extremely excited to join my brother. I will be majoring in public policy, on the pre-law track.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I have no idea! I do hope that I am living somewhere in California, as a lawyer. I hope to be helping people in whatever I do and overall just having a lot of fun as a 27-year-old.
Will you come back to visit Center Stage, or are you gone for good when you’re out the door?
I will 100% be back to visit. Center Stage has helped me create so many memories and it will always be home.