Local artist profile: Scarlett Abbott

THIS week we chat with multi-talented young Bendigo dancer Scarlett Abbott

What initially motivated you to become a dancer?

I guess you could say dancing is in my blood. My Mum, Lauren Abbott and my Auntie, Kirsten Thomas opened Thomas School of Dance 19 years ago. I began dancing at the age of two-and-a-half, where I began kinder ballet classes and theatrical dance classes. I loved it instantly. I loved being able to learn new skills and dancing to my favourite music.

How would you describe your best or favourite dancing styles?

I’ve always studied tap, ballet and jazz. I would say my favourite style is tap. I love the rhythm that your feet can create. I’m also a vocalist and play the piano, so I love all kinds of performing. With lessons and performance opportunities around the local community I have been able to widen my skill set and gain confidence.

Which other dancers inspire you?

I not only love watching dancers perform their craft, I enjoy an overall entertainer. Sutton Foster is an amazing artist, not only a vocalist, but a dancer and an actor. She is somebody I look up to. I also love watching old musicals with Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, but love pop artists as well that sing and also dance: Jennifer Lopez, Michael Jackson just to name a few.

What are some highlights you have from your emerging career?

I have so many memories that are related to dance, not only performing but also the strong friendships I have made.

I love performing at Eisteddfods and have been doing so my whole life, not only in dance but also vocal competitions. I love the buzz of performing onstage and entertaining an audience. During COVID we didn’t have a chance to perform, so I’m relishing my time back on the stage doing what I love.

How has your dance practice been affected by COVID?

COVID was really hard on everyone, but it certainly played havoc with the performing arts community. We participated in some online dance classes – but this certainly was not the same as our normal classes. A huge part of my love of dance is being with my friends that are in my dance troupe.

Performing is about sharing your craft with others, and this was near on impossible. It was really hard to make contact with your friends on a screen and learn dance via Zoom, but we made it work and I’m very thankful that we did. Something is better than nothing!

How can people check out some of your performances and/or the various groups you perform with?

It’s a busy time of year for us at Thomas School of Dance – we had our end of year recital on 10 December at the Capital Theatre. This was exciting as we hadn’t been able to perform in a recital since 2019 due to the pandemic.

We were all so excited to get back on stage doing what we love and to present our performance to a live audience. The recital showcased a wide variety of dance genres, age groups and styles.

What would you say to young regional aspiring dancers who are thinking of having a go at working as a professional?

I would say give it a go. Surround yourself with supportive people and learn as much as you can.