Today we’d like to introduce you to Isaiah Russell.
Hi Isaiah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m originally from Nashville, Tennessee, and have trained in many areas of dance. I first discovered my passion for dance in the fall of 2008 at Cathy’s Dance Studio. A year later up until graduating, I finished my competitive dance training at SpotLite Dance Studio and graduated from Nashville School of the Arts with a focus in dance. After high school, I decided to further my dance education by taking it to a collegiate level and continuing my journey at Troy University to obtain a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in dance. While at Troy I had the opportunity to train with Dominque Angel, Tracy Gilland-Shillabeer, Nicki Loud, and Adria Ferrali. I also worked with the following choreographers/professional dancers: Edward Villella, Trey Mitchell, Cody Green, Lori Belilove, Kavin Grant, Tucker Knox, Zack Benitez, Lisa Bauford, and Bill Hotaling. Throughout my time there I was selected to choreograph in the student choreography showcase, trained at multiple intensives, and chosen to be a part of the traveling ensemble to perform at various locations.
Switching gears, I wanted to dive into psychology while also sharpening my craft. So with that being said, I chose to finish college at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and made history by becoming the first male ever on the dance team. Throughout my time at both universities I choreographed competitive routines for numerous studios, taught at intensives and master classes, and had the opportunity to travel for dance. Other accomplishments of mine include being featured in the Galantis and Dolly Parton music video “Faith” along with other music videos, performing for Janelle Monae and Chris Young (on the General Jackson), performing at the Norf Wall Festival, and joining the Best Buddies program just to name a few.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It definitely has not been but in life that’s inevitable. I’d say it’s had its highs and its lows but it’s what shaped me into the dancer that I am. Like many others, navigating through COVID has been a struggle. The dance industry took a really hard hit. At the start of it you couldn’t take in person classes to train, auditions were held differently because of the protocols in place, and it took a lot of creatives like myself out of the creative mindset. Dance is something I grew up doing with close connections so not being able to experience that how I normally would was upsetting. It was a setback for a while but being able to work through those challenges made the dance community stronger and my gift of dance more valuable.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a professional dancer, choreographer, and aspiring model. I’ve been on the front end of productions as well as behind the scenes, dabbled in lighting and sound techniques, acting, and music. I’ve also worked with students at a competitive level as well as at a collegiate level. Since I’ve been able to travel and work with students from all different ages, backgrounds, and levels of dance it has impacted my growth tremendously. As a teacher, you want your students to shine in the best light so it’s taught me to tend to their needs and showcase them, not just my art.
I’m known for showing up with a smile on my face and making people laugh. The energy I bring is very positive and I like for that to radiate to those around me. Having to manage those long hours of being on set for a music video or competitions days, it is definitely needed to have someone that’s upbeat and can keep the energy in a good place.
I am most proud of the connections I’ve made through dance and the work I’ve put out there over the years. It’s such a great experience to witness the growth of a student and watch them overcome their challenges whether that be confidence, a new skill, etc. I’ve made lifelong friendships because of it and have students look up to me which is an honor. Being able to see dance in a different light such as in theatre or an after-school program has equipped me with many tools to succeed. Dance comes in many forms so I appreciate the knowledge I’ve gained over the years.
I believe what sets me apart is my hard work and dedication. Things don’t come easy so you have to put in the work to make your dreams your reality. Even if something didn’t work out the first time, I’d push myself to try again until I succeeded. Dance has instilled these qualities in me and it’s one of the things I like most about it. There’s always a challenge so there’s always room for growth. Never settle until you’re happy and even then go a little harder.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
This one really gets the mind going! I would say what makes me happy are the things that bring me peace. I enjoy watching the sunset and looking out at the stars and moon at night. I enjoy being surrounded by nature, it’s a good reset to escape from the world. Spaghetti is my favorite dish so anytime I have that I’m in the best mood. I love being an older brother and being able to look after my two younger siblings. A good summer song with the windows rolled down, trying new restaurants, laying out by the pool, and curling up in the bed with fresh sheets.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: isaiahrussell
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/isaiahrussel
Image Credits
@lindseyoliviaaaa @eyecreatemagic @paxton.cain
