We recently caught up with the incredibly talented Kahlia Greska, who is a professional dancer and has worked with some of the best in the business. We spoke to her about her favorite experiences performing, her inspirations growing up and her plans for the future. Here is what she had to say:
Please introduce yourself to the readers and how and when did You first get into performing?
Hi! My name is Kahlia Greksa. I’m a 24 year old professional dancer and first started dancing at the age of 3. My mum enrolled me into dancing because I was a very shy child and she thought it would bring out my confidence, the more dancing I did the more I loved it. At the age of 14, I attended TDHS (The Talent Development High School) dancing 25 hrs per week. After finishing my HSC I then completed a year of full time receiving my certificate IV in performing arts.
What inspired you to get into the entertainment industry?
My dance teachers inspired me to become a working dancer. Growing up around industry professionals gave me an insight into the life of a dancer and successful dancers at that! I decided that if I mimic the hard work and determination that they possess I too will become a successful entertainer.
What kind of training have you had, if any, what did you learn the most?
I have had extensive training in all dance styles including Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop and Tap. I would have to say I learned the most in my ballet classes. I have completed all of my RAD (Royal Academy Of Dance) exams and still continue to take ballet classes, ballet taught me discipline, strength and the very foundation of dance.
What has been your favorite dance role to play so far?
My favorite dance role would have to be playing one half of “The Yellow Twins” in Baz Luhrmanns ‘The Great Gatsby’ alongside my twin sister Karinna. I was hand chosen by Baz to play the role which was very special. The character I played was based in the 1920’s, it was very fun to be able to go back in time and dance a very different style, being transformed with the incredible hair and makeup was also a highlight of playing the role.
What has been one of the most exciting achievements of your career so far?
One of the most exciting achievements in my career so far would have to be being accepted into the Cirque Du Soleil casting books. It has been my dream since I was a young girl. The audition went for 3 full days and consisted of all styles of dance, only 10 girls were accepted in Australia and I am very proud of this achievement.
What projects do you have coming up?
I am currently working with director and photographer Jake Weisz on a dance concept video and I am also about to start filming on the Disney Channel’s prime time show, Hanging with Adam and Ash.
Who would you most like to work with and why?
I would love to work with award winning choreographer Mia Michaels. As a young dancer I would always see her choreography on the TV show ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ she has always inspired me and I connect with her work.
What is your advice to aspiring performers?
My advice for aspiring performers would be to keep training hard! Remember if a dance teacher corrects you it is not a bad thing, most teachers correct you because they see you have potential. Listen to their corrections and don’t take it to heart. I would also tell them to never compare themselves to other dancers because everybody has a different journey and path to success.