I am 14 years old and normally live in Norfolk, Nebraska with my Mom Jan, my Dad Marty, my big brother Tyler and my dog Charlie.

I love to dance.

It all started when I was 7 years old and my cousin Brandi asked me if I wanted to join her classes rather than watch her. Going along to the class was the best decision I ever made.
I first danced at Broadway and Main Street Dance Studio followed by four years at Nebraska Dance. I enjoyed my lessons so much. I took classes in a wide range of styles from tap to lyrical.

In 2006/07 I was crowned the West Coast Dance Elite Junior Dance Champion as well as being placed first in the Modern category with my solo at the Youth America Grand Prix competition.

I have to thank my Mom and Dad who drove me back and forth to my dance lessons which took 2 hours each time, and I also have to thank my big brother Tyler who put up with it!

A big thanks also to all my dance teachers – Brandi, Kathy, Stephanie, Tricia, Sally, Sarah, Mary Clare and Kelly – who have all helped me along the way to becoming Billy Elliot!

Source: Extract from the latest Billy Elliot program, July 2009.