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

Hi Selena, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I can relate to how a work/life balance can be a challenge, especially as a dancer. Turning 26 in August was a turning point for me where I started to view life differently. I’ve always believed in the importance of having a life outside of dance which became clear once I graduated high school. As a child, I missed out on many typical experiences like birthday parties and movie nights with friends because I was always so dedicated to dance. Lately, I’ve felt a strong need to stay busy and work in various areas. I’m striving to establish myself as a professional dancer in the industry, which is a demanding journey. Additionally, I’ve been working at my parents Italian restaurant immersing myself in the service industry to gain more experience. Alongside these commitments, I continue to educate kids weekly at some of our local dance studios. This busy schedule forces me to find necessary time to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy those experiences I missed out on during my childhood. Juggling it all can be challenging, but it’s worth it for the fulfillment it brings to my life!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Dance is a powerful means of self-expression. We use our bodies as instruments to communicate feelings, moods, and narratives. Now with this being said, I think dance can truly show how real you are. In my opinion, being a captivating entertainer can be tough if it isn’t genuine. You have to love what you do, to do it right. Dance is also very physical and competitive. I firmly believe in the importance of being well-trained and versatile as a dancer. It’s like having a superpower in the world of performance.

My path as a Canadian dancer has its challenges. In Canada, big dance opportunities can be scarce and booking them is especially fulfilling. However, my dream has always been to perform on a stage in front of thousands of people. That is why I am looking forward to taking a big step in moving to Los Angeles, where I hope to make this dream a reality.

I take immense pride in what I’ve accomplished so far and am eager to continue on this journey. There is nothing quite like being booked on a project, giving it your all and witnessing the incredible result at the end. It’s moments like those that fuel my desire for more.

Through my years in dance and even today, I am constantly pushing myself to be more outgoing and assertive when it comes to promoting myself. Not only in person but also on social media. I have tended to sometimes be a bit reserved, preferring to stand at the back of the room and be a tough critic towards myself which makes me hesitant when posting videos and pictures. I have come to realize that I need to step outside of my comfort zone stand in the front and strive to stand out. This is what I am currently working on for myself. I want the world to know that I am humble and not looking to come across arrogant, but when I step into a room and start to dance, I can truly leave a lasting impression and show everyone who am I and what I love to do!

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.
Well to start, we are staying busy and I will make sure it is a memorable week!

There is so much to do here in Toronto, especially downtown. We would have to visit Queen Street for some of the best and unique fashion and Kensington Market to see the character and culture this area brings to the city. We could also stay active and take some class; Dance, Yoga, Spinning, Pilates.

I would want to bring my friend to experience the Nightlife in Toronto because it is always a good time. We have some cool speakeasy spots and bars that we could grab a drink at for a night out. Food wise, I would say this friend could close their eyes and point to anywhere on the map because we have some of the best trendy restaurants here with many food options to choose from.

We do have snow here so depending on the time of year, I’d take them to the beaches, an outdoor concert and even on a trail for a walk to enjoy nature and some breathtaking views.

I am a huge family girl so I would definitely make sure to invite them over to get the chance to meet everyone, hang out and experience the amazing food and fun my family offers. I would also love to introduce them to my friends that I’ve grown up with here for so many years.

It always excites me to show a friend from out of town where I am from, who I was brought up by, and who I am friends with to experience a little taste of the life I live here in Canada!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have such a deep appreciation and gratitude for my family and everyone who has been apart of my dance journey. Along the way I have had a strong support system and many positive influences that have shaped my life and passion for dance. My parents dedication and sacrifice to support my dance endeavours, as well as the valuable life lessons they’ve imparted for me are truly admirable. They have instilled the values of hard work, humility and the importance of pursing my dreams since I started dancing. My sister Alisha is a great source of inspiration and competition which has pushed me to excel and strive for my own achievements. Our sibling dynamic will always be a great motivator for personal growth and success. I also have to acknowledge the support that has come from the teachers and fellow dancers who have been with me from the start through present day. Learning from others, competing and collaborating with peers has been incredibly enriching and has pushed me to improve and reach my full potential. For all that read this and feel a certain way, thank you times a million. You know who you are!

Instagram: @selenalucchese

Image Credits
@anthonyfascionephotography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.