When we think of dancers, we often think of toned, beautiful bodies that are flexible and have a uniform look. Misty Copeland’s recent rise to the top in the realm of ballet despite being told that her body was ‘wrong’ as well as being black in a sea of white ballerinas has shown the world that you don’t have to conform to a certain look to be not only successful, but a great dancer.
Billie Casey-Jabore. Photo courtesy of Billie Casey-Jabore.
Billie Casey-Jabore is an Australian dancer, choreographer and agent from the Gold Coast. She trained at Patrick Studios in Melbourne and has successfully worked as a dancer since 2005 despite being the ‘underdog’ due to her look and size. No agent would take her on, so she has booked all of her own gigs, including performing for Calvin Harris, Paula Abdul, Tiesto, Jessica Mauboy and Paul Mac. Billie has also performed at numerous festivals and events, is a popular dance teacher, and runs BFierce Entertainment. Through sheer hard work and determination, Billie defied the odds and didn’t let the constant stream of ‘no’s’ deter her from pursuing her passion.
On the eve of her relocation to Los Angeles, Dance Informa spoke with the inimitable Billie…
You’ve encountered a lot of rejection in the industry. What has been the basis for this rejection?
“The basis of my rejection is on appearance. In Australia it is very common for stereo-typically tall and thin dancers to be hired who are not necessarily the most talented and unique. It is often those who are different and who work harder to achieve a genuine level of art in their field that don’t get a chance because casting agents can’t look past appearance and tricks. Not that I devalue tricks, because it is an amazing skill and one that all dancers should strive to add to their vocabulary, but it is not what I believe should book you the job over actual dancing ability.
For example, I have frequently gone to auditions where we are all lined up and cut from the group in the first round based on looks before even being given the opportunity to show our talent, and auditions where models get through to the end when they clearly can’t even pick up and execute choreography. While yes, there is a place for consistency with looks, makeup, hair and overall presentation, at some point people should look beyond appearance. All dancers are different and that should be celebrated both on and off the stage. In order to set a good example for young dancers who strive to follow in our footsteps, let’s show them that you can be yourself and still achieve your goals. That’s what I am advocating for.
Billie Casey-Jabore. Photo courtesy of Casey-Jabore.
In reality, the best fit for dancers like me is with RnB/alternative artists where being curvy with a unique and individual style is welcome and more appreciated. Dance is also so much more than typical tricks such as flips, splits and stunts that tends to get attention. It is the feel and connection to the music, evoking emotion and sharing a piece of yourself. Instead it has become more focused on whether a dancer fits into the costume and has the perfect shape.”
In such a difficult industry, how hard has it been for you to stay true to yourself and persevere in the face of rejection and criticism?
“I have been blessed enough to have the most supportive family and over time if I feel defeated I channel their positivity and love/strength to my life. Also God plays the main role in my life so I am constantly praying for guidance and discernment on what I should be doing next.
To be honest it is a constant battle, but every day I am doing what I love. Regardless of the set backs, I am able to keep going because I live and breathe dance and couldn’t survive without it. I have been dancing since I can remember and my family always says that I could never still at the dinner table, even when it’s silent there is music in my head and heart and I have to move to it.”
Do you think that the ‘ideal look’ is changing and that talent is becoming the most important thing for a performer?
“I would like to believe that it is changing but from what I keep witnessing, I don’t think its going to change in Australia anytime soon in the commercial industry, which is why valued dancers are packing up and moving to America or Europe where their talent is more appreciated. No matter how many people may disagree with me, it has been my experience and I know there are many dancers and choreographers who feel the same way.
This is the reason why I started BFierce Entertainment, my agency, to showcase dancers with quality talent who break the mould and deliver the whole entertainment package. They are bold, fierce and on another level of talent. This is what I stand for and want to support. I do believe in the talent here and that with support, my voice will be valued in the industry and others will follow.”
You’ve had great success as a performer in Australia. What have been some highlights?
“One of my biggest highlights is taking class!!! Nothing can compare to the magic you experience and friendships you can make. The studio is where you achieve constant growth with the right mentorship.
Billie Casey-Jabore. Photo courtesy of Casey-Jabore.
Also spending time with the artists after a show and finding out how down to earth and genuinely lovely people they are. Especially some of the recent artists I have had the pleasure of working with including Jessica Mauboy, Zoe Badwi, Paula Abdul, Tiesto, Aviici, and Paul Mac who are all such beautiful people that spend quality time to get to know you. My memories with them are filled with laughter.
Another experience that has a lasting impact is performing in front of crowds of up to 70,000 and feeling the energy of the audience while sharing the love of music and dancing your heart out on stage.”
Local dancers rave about your classes. What do you enjoy about teaching?
“Teaching is such a joy and pleasure that I value greatly. I love seeing the change it makes in people and seeing how happy movement makes them feel. I am lucky enough to share my knowledge with them, to encourage them to challenge themselves, grow and reach a place of accomplishment. Whether it be finding their own unique style, working on their technique, sharing understanding of music, letting them feel the freedom that dance brings or taking their talent to the next level and pushing for a personal best. It is truly an honour that people come to learn from me and I will never take it for granted.
I also feel like I have made a difference in some way, which really helps to push me through the hard times that I experience in my career. There is nothing like the natural high you feel after finishing a class with people who have just ‘got it’ and who have vibed off the music and each other.”
Do you think your struggles have made you a better dancer and teacher?
“Yes, 100%. As much as it has been hard, it is also such a rewarding feeling when you accomplish so much with hard work, persistence and with the emotional support of your friends and family. Like anything in life, you find out who you are and discover what you are made of in the tough times. It also makes you truly appreciate the good times too and keeps you grounded during the highs.”
Billie Casey-Jabore. Photo courtesy of Casey-Jabore.
You are headed to Los Angeles. What do you have planned for the next step in your career?
“The next step is to continue to work hard and get myself to L.A. Once there I will aim to pursue my ultimate career goal of touring with an international artist. This is the hardest endeavour I will face as it is nothing but hustle in L.A. and the talent there is insane. But this has been something I have wanted since I was little and no matter the obstacles I will face, I have to try and give it my all. What is that saying, ‘But what if I fall? Oh, but my darling what if you fly?’ I am prepared to follow my dreams and strive for my personal best. I have just as much love for choreography and directing, so I will be perusing that side of things throughout my career because honestly, my brain won’t let me stop choreographing and visualizing my next project.
On the other end of my career, once I achieve this and become more accomplished in this field I would like to continue to build my career as an agent and choreographer in Australia to bring what I learned and what I have to offer back home. I have a strong voice in the industry pushing for quality commercial dancers to be working professionally and I will continue to support this for as long as I possibly can.”
By Rebecca Martin of Dance Informa.
Photo (top): Emerging artist Billie Casey-Jabore. Photo courtesy of Billie Casey-Jabore.
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