Nationals Spotlight: Balian & Kayla P.

2020 Qualifier

Name: Balian
 
Age: 11
 
Congratulations on qualifying for Nationals back in 2020! I know it must have been disappointing when last year was cancelled, but do you think this extra time has made you a stronger competitor? What have you learned about yourself as a dancer this last year?
 
I am disappointed I couldn't go to Tennessee, but I definitely think I am more prepared this year and a much stronger dancer. I feel I have much more stamina this year and my steps are more interesting to perform. This year, I have learned that doing fitness circuits has made my posture stronger.
 
What are you most looking forward to about Nationals?
 
I am looking forward to going to Arizona because it will be a new place to explore, and I am most looking forward to being up on stage. It's an amazing feeling!
 
What have you missed the most about competing more regularly this year? (And what have you definitely NOT missed about competing?)
 
I have missed seeing other dancers and I have missed the excitement of competition. Also, being a string player, I always enjoy live music. I have definitely NOT missed walking around feis hallways with girls crying everywhere.
 
What’s your proudest dance achievement so far? Any future dance goals you’re setting for
yourself?
​
My proudest dance achievement was winning 2nd place at Oireachtas and qualifying for 2020 Nationals.  My future dance goal is a secret, but Christian knows it.  
 
Have you ever visited Phoenix before? Any plans while you’re there beyond dancing?
 
Never been to Phoenix, but my dad and brother are making some surprise plans for when my competition is over.
 
What’s your favorite dance to compete in? Which do you think is your strongest?
 
I LOVE reels because I feel like I'm flying and I love the happiness of it. I think I am strong at reels because I love clicking in my reel shoes and I think I move well around the stage.
 
What advice would you give a dancer hoping to qualify for Nationals?

Make good use of circuits and workouts because your whole body needs to be strong, not just your legs! 

---

Nationals Veteran

Name: Kayla P.
 
Age: 18
 
Congratulations on qualifying for Nationals! It’s been so long since the last major in November of 2019—what are you most looking forward to this year?
 
I am mostly looking forward to traveling for a competition again and all the memories that come along with that. 
 
You must have changed so much since November 2019! What have you learned over the last year and a half about yourself as a dancer?
 
I have learned that competing is not the main reason I love dancing so much, but rather just working hard and hanging out with friends.
 
What past National competition was your favorite? Why?
 
Vancouver! I recalled for the first time and I love Canadians!
 
What have you missed the most about competing? (And what have you definitely NOT missed about competing?)
 
I have missed spending the weekends with my mom and friends the most—and seeing progression in my dancing through marks and comments. I have not missed quick shoe changes and taping my shoes!
 
What’s your proudest dance achievement so far? Any future dance goals you’re setting for yourself?
 
World qualifying! And nothing too major, I’m more focused on enjoying my senior year of dance and dancing my absolute best at Nationals. 
 
What’s your favorite dance to compete in? Which do you think is your strongest?
 
Reel! And reel or set. 
 
Have you ever visited Phoenix before? Any plans while you’re there beyond dancing?
 
Nope! I hope to see the cool rocks.
 
As someone who’s been to Nationals before, what’s your advice to dancers competing there for the first time?
 
Enjoy it! Focus on yourself and all the hard work you have done leading up to this point. Take a big deep breath before stepping on stage and smile. 

This post is part of a series. Take a look at our last Nationals Spotlight, with Spicey and Bella J., here. Also: check out the blog every Monday and Thursday for more posts about Irish history, dance culture, community news, and spotlights on our dancers, staff, and families—among other fun projects! And don’t forget to dance along with us on both Facebook and Instagram.

---