Jamie Angeles
What companies/classes are you currently in?
I have been a Jazzcat for the past 5 years, I am a Tap Cat in the Ocean Tap Ensemble, and I am also in the new Hip Hop Company at Center Stage.
When did you start at Center Stage?
I started in 2010 when the Ocean Studio first opened.
Do you remember your first dance routine?
Yes, it was Swan Lake with Anne.
What was your Center Stage journey?
I started when I was 5 years old at the Ocean Studio in 2010. I became a Jazzcat in seventh grade and I traveled to Marlboro once a week. From there I started going to the East Brunswick studio once a week. Now, I spend two nights in Ocean and the other two at East Brunswick.
Why has it been worth all of the energy you’ve put in to it and the sacrifices you’ve made?
Dance has always been an important part of my life. It was the one thing I could always count on. For the most part, I knew the sacrifices I made were worth it because I knew that dance was something that I absolutely loved. Through all of my years at Center Stage, it taught me how to balance everything in life and I am so glad that it did. As a senior, it is safe to say it has all been worth it. Not only that, I am able to be part of something so special. I love my Center Stage family and I know I always have them to lift my spirits.
Though you’ve lately 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 than other studios?
Though I am very happy that I have the opportunity to go to the East Brunswick studio, Ocean has always felt like a second home. Personally, it is a safe space for me and I share some of the best memories with my teammates and teachers at the studio. Not only that, having Krystle in the studio to bother Tori always brightens my day;)
How has growing up near the shore been different than you think it would be in other parts of New Jersey?
I love how close I am to the beach. I can’t imagine living more than 15 minutes away and it always stuns me when people at dance from other areas explain how it is a 30 minute drive to go “down the shore.”
Do you do other outside of school activities?
Yes, I am a captain for Fall and Winter Cheer and I am heavily involved in my school’s business school program. I am also a part of DECA, NHS, and several other clubs.
Did you have an imaginary friend? What do you remember about him/her? Is s/he still around?
I didn’t have an imaginary friend but I would always pretend that I was dating celebrities.
Did you have an embarrassing family nickname when you were little?
Yes, my dad used to call me tushy.
Who was your first celebrity crush?
Either Justin Beiber or Harry Styles.
TV Show you're embarrassed to admit you used to watch?
I’m embarrassed to admit that I still watch Jersey Shore.
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?
Definitely my positivity. I always try to have a positive outlook on life and I think because of that, it will not only take me far but hopefully influence those around me to do the same. I acquired this from several people including my mom and my dance teachers.
What’s next?
College! I just submitted all of my applications and I am planning on majoring in either Human Resources or Supply Chain Management.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I’ll have my MBA, hopefully an amazing job that I love, and either married or heading in that direction. I definitely still want to live close to the shore and hopefully by then I’ve traveled and attended many concerts.
Will you come back to visit Center Stage, or are you gone for good when you’re out the door?
Of course! I love my Center Stage family and I couldn’t imagine my life without them.