Meet Itzy Martinez: Dance teacher and choreographer

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

Hi Itzy, how do you think about risk?
One of the definitions of risk is “to do something although there is a chance of a bad result” for example when you know that crossing the street here is dangerous but you say “I will just have to risk it”. That’s exactly how I feel every time that I decide to do a change in my life to pursuit my dance dream. I know there is always the possibility to fail, but even that, I prefer to try it, instead just be waiting and longing to have that opportunity in my life. Make it happen! Sometimes we have to take those risks because they will take us out of the comfort zone to have the best chance to grow and improve ourselves. One of the biggest risks that I have taken, it was when I decided to move to Los Angeles, leaving my family, friends, my dance studio, and so much more in my hometown (Guadalajara). But I know that it would be amazing to try something new and also it would open my mind and my path to different people and opportunities. Of course every decision and risk that you take, they will bring some consequences, but it does not mean, it will be bad , a lot of times the reward is the best that you can get in your life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am professional dancer and choreographer, I have been dancing for almost 15 years. I decided to dedicate my life to this beautiful art. It has been my salvation, my refuge and I absolutely don’t regret. i have experience a lot of challenges all over my career, you have to be protecting your mental health as much as possible, sometimes we work longer than a regular job, our tool is our body, even if you are tired. Sometimes even that I have an injury or I feel so tired, I have to go and teach or if I have a show or performance, I have to give my best. We never stop. We always have to be looking for more opportunities, creating connections, having good footage, posting on social media so you can reach more people. Taking care of your body, be on shape, actualize yourself about music, new styles, tendencies, what is new in the industry, taking classes and so much more. Really, We never stop. I can not say it has been easy but for me is so much worth it . My dance never let me down, it’s always with me, it’s my profession and also my therapy.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
1. The beach/ Ridding bicycles in Hermosa beach 2. Drinking coffee in Urth Cafe 3. Hiking or enjoying the sunset at Griffith Observatory 4. A great night at Cliftons or Los Globos. 5. Walking around Pasadina looking for great spots to eat or drink something 6. Eating a mushroom burger at “Staut” 7. Enjoying a beach day at Malibu 8. Going for a good workout at Muscle beach or a great yoga session at the grass in Santa Monica Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have met amazing people since I started dancing, people that have inspired me to take the next step and go out of my confort zone, people that have trusted on me, in my talent, my dance teachers, choreographers, my family that has been supporting me always, my friends. My dance teachers; Norma Lopez Charles, Monica del Zas, Cesar Balcazar, Edgar Reyes, Osqui, Chelsea Dawn, Yohandys Paez, Sandy Rojas, Juan Pablo Cuevas. I’m blessed to find angels in my life, every place I go, I meet amazing people, Fame Dance Studio, the bboys, Sokamba family, Melissa Moran, a lot of wonderful people. Thank you because everyone has taught me or inspired me in some way.

Instagram: @itzymartinez.27

Facebook: Itzy Martinez

Yelp: Itzy Martinez Dance

Youtube: Itzy Martinez

Image Credits
Photo: GRphoto MX @jnaobscura @avillarreal33 @franciscomphoto