In Front of the Lens: Professional Dancer Lisa Tidball
I’ve been quite fortunate to work with a lot of dancers, actors, singers, musicians, and models over the years. In fact, it’s fair to say that’s primarily who I shoot with! How fun is that?
When Lisa first reached out to me, I was so excited. Learning that she has been dancing professionally for 9 years around the world, I couldn’t wait to hear her story, and get to know her better. As soon as we met, we instantly bonded from our dance backgrounds, and she was so easy to direct because we understand the same lingo… for example, when I asked for a bevel, she hit that pose without hesitation!
I wanted to feature Lisa on the blog because I hope it inspires people to follow their dreams. I admire her and others who are brave enough to flee the nest, and enter such a critical and hard industry. It takes incredible grit, and perseverance to get out there and audition, and actually book work! As someone that has been in the world of dance for as long as I can remember, I realize how much self confidence and determination it takes, and I applaud her for succeeding! Incredible work, Lisa!
Now let’s get right to this interview. Enjoy!
Q1 - Share a little about yourself!
I was born and raised in Regina, Saskatchewan. I have two older brothers who played hockey since I can remember. As a young girl I was always dancing and singing around the house. I always wanted to put on a show for family and friends. At the age of 4, I was put into dancing and gymnastics. Throughout my childhood I also played soccer, basketball and volley ball (well at least I tried ) haha. I soon realized I wanted to be a performer and nothing else mattered. Growing up, school and education came second, as dance started to take over my life. I always envisioned dancing as my career but to this day I still can’t believe it is. I’m very grateful that I get to call it “work”. Out of high school, I took a leap of faith and moved to New York City to further my dance training. Since then, I’ve been dancing professionally for 9 years. It has taken me all over the world and I am happy to say that it still is. Working and travelling has also introduced me to my amazing partner. He’s from Australia and a dancer as well, which makes it incredible we get to do this all together. I am a huge foodie and I love trying out new cafes and restaurants as well as finding new things and places to explore. I also have a dog named Gigi who I absolutely adore.
Q2 - What does a day in life look like for you?
This is a tough one! My days are always different depending on where my job is, what it is etc. As a dancer, we don’t always know when our next contract or gig will be. It’s a crazy life I’ve chosen, but I wouldn’t change it. For example, if I was to be on a ship contract - a day would look a little like this: I would wake up, have a coffee, (coffee first- always) and head to the gym. Then depending if we were at port, we would explore and enjoy wherever the ship may be docked for that day. Like I said before, I am a huge foodie so trying local food in different places is usually in the day to day agenda. We would have a specific time we would have to be back on the ship, then usually sneak in a little power nap before getting ready for our shows. On a show night, we would normally do two performances. Once makeup and hair is done, I would head backstage and warm up. Afterwards, usually around 11pm is when we are done work and can call it a day. Wine and a tv series to finish off the evening!
Q3 - what is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I’m actually a very shy person. I tell people this and they think I am crazy. On stage or in front of a camera it’s like I am somebody else. It’s where I feel the most comfortable and where I can express any kind of feeling or mood. It’s truly my outlet and the best way I know how to express myself. If you were to ask me to speak in front of a group of people I would be absolutely terrified. I would rather dance in front of 10,000 people than speak in a room with 10 people. It takes me a while to fully open up, and be my complete self. When you really get to know me I am an extremely goofy and silly person. This is definitely something I am working on and continue to work for. We are all human and have insecurities but we just need to remember- we are all human.
Q4 - if you could fix one thing in the world what would it be?
I am such an animal lover and would do anything to see all animals have a loving home. It breaks my heart when animals are abused or treated poorly. They all deserve love, a home and appreciation. This is definitely something I would love to fix in this world.
Q5 - what’s one of your 2020 goals?
2020 I believe is going to be a big year for myself. Lots of goals and ideas set for the coming months. My partner and I are planning on getting our own place later this year in Australia. Woo! I plan on getting my working holiday visa for the year and working there as a performer/dancer.
Q6- What inspired you to book a photoshoot, and what do you plan to use the photos for?
I came across Nicole’s instagram and instantly fell in love with her photos. I loved the style, how clean the photos looked and just overall how great they were. I knew that she would be amazing to shoot with and I would get a great end result. I needed an updated headshot and some new body shots. I have used and will continue to use them for auditions, castings and my portfolio.
Q7- What is your favourite photo, and why?
This is hard because I’m so happy with all of the photos we took that day. I chose this photo because I am never happy with my headshots! I find that I always get a bit awkward since it’s just a face shot but with Nicole she worked her magic and I’m so happy with the turn out. I am proud to use it for castings and feel that it is an exact representation of myself. Thanks Nicole!
How can people get in touch, and follow your journey?
You can follow me on Instagram @lisa.dawn.t
Get in touch at lisadawn.t01@gmail.com
I hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know me a little bit more! I’ve enjoyed sharing a piece of me with all of you. Don’t hesitate to reach out! With love, Lisa