Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexei Geronimo.
Hi Alexei, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I’m originally born in Vancouver, BC but grew up in a town outside of the city called Richmond. When I was a kid, I always knew I wanted to be a performer of some sort, whether that was acting or dancing.
Films, concerts, and music videos always influenced me so I first brought up my interest in dance to my family. It wasn’t easy to convince them to pay for my lessons as they probably wanted me to get a degree in college, so I had to convince them. I was always a persistent kid!
So, I think that is how I was able to get (most) of what I wanted. I don’t think I would be where I am today if I didn’t listen to my inner voice! It wasn’t easy financially in my teenage days, but I was fortunate enough to receive a full scholarship at my dance school. My dance teacher saw something in me and that is how it all started. I began taking dance lessons at the late age of 15 to have something else to look forward to during my high school years. Little did I know I would love it so much that I would be pursuing it professionally to this day. I didn’t realize the drive and desire I had until I was in the studio amongst other dancers who inspired me.
From training in all styles from ballet, jazz, tap, musical theatre, and hip hop, I moved to LA shortly after high school where I received a year-long dance scholarship at a prestigious dance school “The Edge Performing Arts Centre” which is no longer around. It was then that I realized that this is my true passion and what I want to do. I was exposed to a larger pool of talent which was overwhelming at first but I knew I was in the right place at that time. The rest was history! I started working on my 01 (work) visa so I could work in the States and I can proudly say I’m now on my 3rd!
The road was never easy, especially as a foreigner trying to work in both my hometown and in the United States, but it was a mix of hard work, timing, and making connections wherever I was that probably helped bring me to where I am. Because of this, I have been able to have a successful career in live theatre, international tours, and film and tv. As I get older, I realize my path has shifted and things may not be the same as they used to be, especially with the pandemic affecting live performances, but probably for the better!
As of now, my role as a dancer has shifted more towards teaching, assisting, and even a bit of acting. I feel a new beginning for me arising and I may not even know what is yet to come, which can be both scary and exciting. Though I still have that itch to perform so I try to find that balance where I can still perform as well as lead, teach and give back to a younger generation of dancers.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been a smooth road. As a dancer/creative artist, I, like many others have faced a lot of rejection in this industry. However, I believe it is how you handle it that becomes your reality.
Challenges have included finding where to fit in, and even finding the right people to surround me with. I may not fit in every place but I’ve realized after a while, that that specific place finds me.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve spent most of my years training and performing in dance all around the world doing tours, live theatre, and film and tv work. Big jobs that I have been a part of were touring with an international dance troupe called “Bad Boys of Ballet” and performing at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas for a dance spectacle. I’ve even lived in China for an almost two-year contract for a show that never opened but was in creation and rehearsals the whole time. Over time, these experiences have recently evolved into leadership roles.
I also teach, judge dance competitions, and assist and help install shows for Royal Caribbean Productions. Anything related to dance is what I’m most known for and what my specialty would be. However, fitness and wellness have always been a big part of my life. That has led me to get certifications in yoga and Pilates. I’ve been teaching these modalities for the past few years and it is related and complimentary to what I do. I do a mix of things from dance, acting, voice-over work, and pole dancing to teaching different types of movement. So I definitely enjoy the variety.
I currently bounce back and forth between Canada and USA for work with Miami being a destination I tend to live in several months out of the year.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
If there is one thing I’ve learned, it is to go where you are valued and feel good doing the work you’re doing or at least learning something new and valuable amidst all of it. If those things are not apparent, I see it as a sign to find something else.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alexei-geronimo.com
- Instagram: @alexei_geronimo
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexeig1
Image Credits
Aidan Tooth, Richie Lubaton, Daniela Ericson, and Djeneba Aduayom
