Meet Bec Morris | Dancer, Choreographer & Teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bec Morris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bec, how do you think about risk?

In my experience, my first big life AND career risk was moving to LA from Sydney, Australia. I made this move in August of 2017 purely for my career; for more opportunity and to get out of my comfort zone bubble.

Thanks to friends that have gone through this before, I learnt as much as I could about the process – how to get a US work visa, how much money I’d need to start up this new life and what I could expect once I landed.

This was the beginning of a stunning life in LA filled with dance work, choreography and creative ventures as well as meeting new friends, visiting new places and just enjoying my life that was right in front of me,

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a professional dancer who has worked with J Balvin, Nicki Minaj, Big Sean, Tyga, YG, Little Mix and many more. Choreography wise I have worked with Jennifer Lopez, Stevie Mackey, JoJo, Danna Paola and Chloe Flower.

As a dancer, my ‘most proud’ moment was having my parents in the audience smiling up at me during the US tour with J Balvin in 2019. My parents have always supported me as a performer and have been by my side since I started at 2 years old. But having them smile up at me, in a sold out arena, was absolutely incredible.
As a choreographer, any moment I see my work on stage/on a camera/on a dancer is exhilarating. You get to watch the hard work that goes on behind the scenes come to life and bring joy to others. It’s incomparable.

My journey to these moments were a little rough, to say it lightly. I wasn’t considered a “dancer” in Australia and was definitely overlooked and put into a choreographer-teacher box. But being in my early 20’s I wanted to experience everything I could while my body still allowed it. I overcame this challenge (after having a little break down outside my work place) after making the decision to move across the world and start my own journey to control my life and work.

The big lesson that I have learnt is that you HAVE TO HAVE YOUR OWN BACK. No one will have your back like you will… like you CAN. My mum is my number one fan and always has great advise but she won’t always be around. I will be. So I HAVE TO have my own back. Support myself, pick myself up when I need to, push myself forward when I need to.

I want the world to know and understand that things don’t happen over night – I know we all know this but do we all understand this? It’s a combination of hard work, commitment and resilience. BUT you have to be smart – where do you put in your hard work and commitment? How do you pull yourself up and learn from the mistakes and failures so you become more resilient? There is no big secret answer… Everyone is different so everyone’s path should be too.

But what sets me a part from others… I’m always on top of my sh*t. Organization for me is key. If I can deliver everything the artist/manager/company needs me to on time, with the above and beyond and with a smile on my face that’s the winning formula for me. Also, performance quality is everything. As a dancer I live by that and as a choreographer I ensure to portray it. This world is about entertaining… so ENTERTAIN!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So I’d definitely start with a hike. Depending on your ability/fitness etc, I’d say either the Wisdom Tree + Hollywood sign trail or Griffith Observatory. Both have outstanding views (especially on a clear day) and you can work up a little sweat while you’re at it. Also I love the walk from Will Rogers Beach to Santa Monica. With the ocean breeze, waves & mountains surrounding you, it’s peaceful. Then a quick dip in the cool Pacific Ocean back at Will Rogers.

Spots to eat (gosh I could go on forever). Uba Tuba acai bowls are a MUST. Refreshing, sweet and doesn’t break the bank. I also love Rustic Spoon’s fusion thai, Sugar Taco, Gracias Madre, Sushi Dan, Jame Enoteca for some delicious Italian, the street food taco truck on my corner, Salt and Straw, Sprinkles cupcake (because the cupcake ATM is such a novelty), Korean BBQ in Ktown and Great White in Venice (because it reminds me of Aussie cafes).

If we could, lets catch a live jam at The Baked Potato, wander the streets of Abbot Kinney and grab a bite, see the Venice canals, check out the Melrose Trading Post markets, hang out by the pool and have a little cook out, have a day at the The Winery in Malibu with homemade snacks & a cheese board and take a trip to Glendale’s Americana to enjoy the sounds of Frank Sinatra in time with the water fountains.

Then a road trip to either (or all) Big Bear where we can ski during the day & cosy up by the fire at night, San Diego to enjoy the nice beaches and good food and/or Joshua Tree and explore the rock formations, hikes and stunning sunsets.

Lastly, if you’re game, a dance class at Playground LA right on Melrose Ave… because who doesn’t need to have a little jam and let off some steam?!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Rob Rich – a choreographer and my mentor. The RichFam is his world-wide dance organization/company that I was able to train and perform with in LA when I first arrived. He has watched me grow as a performer and choreographer and has been there with friendship, guidance and support when needed. He’s taught me so much and will continue to for the rest of my career.

Instagram: @becmorris

Twitter: @bec__morris

Facebook: /becmorrisofficial

Youtube: /becmorris

Image Credits
Head shot: Eugene Shin BTS for JoJo : Doug Krantz