In this interview, we delve into the world of dancer Tiana Vassallo, uncovering her journey, inspirations, and dreams for the future. Tiana offers an insightful look into her life, balancing the highs and lows of a demanding career with grace and determination.

The Dance Life Experience

Tiana's involvement in the documentary series Dance Life was a transformative chapter in her career. She describes it as "exciting and special," offering a unique opportunity to showcase the dedication and passion behind the art of dance. For Tiana, the series wasn’t just about dancing—it was a platform to tell a story, not only her own but also the collective narrative of dancers striving to make their mark.

“Being part of something like Dance Life was an eye-opener,” Tiana shares. “It brought dance back to the forefront and highlighted the hard work dancers put in, something I feel has been overlooked in recent years.” The series pulled back the curtain, offering audiences an authentic glimpse into the intense physical training, emotional investment, and sheer determination that dancers pour into their craft. “It wasn’t just about the performances; it was about the journey to get there.”

For Tiana, the series also provided a chance to connect deeply with fellow dancers. "We didn’t know each other's stories until we were filming, which made the experience even more special," she reflects. This shared vulnerability created a strong bond among the cast, fostering an environment where they could support and uplift one another.

She also credits the series with elevating public perception of dance. “After Dance Life, it felt like people outside the dance world finally understood how much work and sacrifice goes into it,” she says. For Tiana, the project wasn’t just a career milestone; it was a celebration of the artistry and grit that define the dance community.

Growth as a Dancer

The exposure from Dance Life opened doors for Tiana, allowing her to meet new people and gain career-defining opportunities. “It gave us a platform,” she explains, noting how the visibility from the series accelerated her career, especially through social media. The show also allowed her to connect with audiences on a deeper level, providing insight into the dedication and sacrifices dancers make behind the scenes. “It wasn’t just about showcasing talent; it was about telling our stories,” she adds, reflecting on the series' role in humanising the art of dance.

Her time at Brent Street, one of Australia's most esteemed dance training institutions, has been instrumental in shaping her career. "The training there instilled discipline, values, and a strong work ethic," Tiana says. The school provided not only technical expertise but also invaluable industry connections. “We were constantly training with people who are now hiring in the industry, which built trust and prepared us for professional opportunities,” she explains.

Tiana fondly recalls the energy and inspiration she felt while walking the hallways, surrounded by idols and future industry leaders. “The atmosphere was electric—everywhere you looked, someone was striving to be their best,” she shares. This environment pushed her to evolve as both a dancer and a professional.

Overcoming Challenges

Tiana's journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. A significant injury during her training forced her to reevaluate her identity outside of dance—a challenge that was both unexpected and deeply personal. “It was tough, but it made me grow,” she reflects. “I had to learn who I was without dance, and that perspective has been invaluable.” Stripped of the routine she had relied on, Tiana found herself grappling with questions of self-worth and purpose, but the experience ultimately helped her discover the importance of building a strong sense of self beyond her art.

Growing up as a dancer also came with sacrifices, from missing social events to navigating self-doubt. The intensity of her training meant giving up family milestones, like weddings and birthdays, and often feeling isolated from peers outside the dance world. “You make these choices because you love it, but it’s not always easy,” she admits. Yet, Tiana found strength in perseverance, channeling her energy into her craft and drawing inspiration from the support of her family and mentors.

These challenges, though daunting, became pivotal in shaping Tiana’s resilience and work ethic. She now uses her experiences to inspire her students, reminding them that setbacks are a part of the journey. “I see myself in them, and I know it’s possible to push through,” she says. “The challenges taught me to appreciate every achievement and made me a better dancer and a more well-rounded person.”

Dreams for the Future

Tiana’s ambitions are clear: she aspires to work with world-renowned creatives like The Squared Division and dreams of becoming a backup dancer on tour. “I’ve always wanted to dance for artists and eventually transition into creative directing,” she reveals.

She also envisions moving to Los Angeles, drawn by its vibrant dance community and abundant opportunities. “The training and connections in LA are unparalleled,” she says, while also acknowledging the richness of the Australian dance scene.

As Tiana reflects on her journey, she credits her mentors, including Lucas Newland, Cassie Bartho and Paris Cavanaugh, for shaping her both as a dancer and as a person. Their wisdom, combined with her family’s unwavering support, has been the foundation of her success. “They’ve taught me so much—not just about dance, but about staying grounded and driven through life’s challenges,” she shares.

Her advice for aspiring dancers is simple but powerful: "Don’t give up. Turn setbacks into fuel for your fire. Consistency and hard work beat talent every time." She also stresses the importance of versatility and kindness, traits she believes are just as essential as technical skill. “Talent matters, but at the end of the day, people want to work with someone who’s genuinely nice,” she says.

Tiana’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of community. From her early days as a student to starring in Dance Life and setting her sights on international stages, her journey serves as an inspiration to anyone chasing their dreams. With her unwavering belief in herself and her craft, Tiana’s future is as bright as the spotlight she so effortlessly commands.

Article by Chanel Bamford

Photography by Elly Ford

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