Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikole Raven.
Nikole, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Well, I’ve been performing my whole life since I was about five. My teachers told my parents that I had too much “negative hyper energy” or something to that effect, so they put me in dance classes because that’s what my cousins were doing, and it just kind of stuck. I danced through grade school and got my first paid gig shortly after graduating high school. I danced through college, and have never looked back!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has absolutely not been a smooth road. I struggle every day with self-doubt – but I think most artists of any discipline does. If you’re not your own worst critic, then you have no drive to get better.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of. What sets you apart from others?
So, when people ask me “What do I do?” I generally jokingly answer “Whatever I want!” but the truth is “whatever needs to be done.” I love to organize productions and see everything come together. I also love to make costumes for other people. I love seeing my creations come to life on other talented performers.
I think what sets me apart the most is that I have a slightly odd sense of humor. I want my costumes and themes to be fierce, but also a little silly with a little touch of darkness!
My second love is comedy and I love to make people laugh and feel a little uneasy!
Looking back on your childhood, what experiences do you feel played an important role in shaping the person you grew up to be?
From an early age, I was allowed (really required) to pay for my own clothes. I learned about thrifting and DIY very early on. That combined with my grandma who taught me a lot about sewing and bought me my first sewing machine for my 10th birthday. My mom is an artist, and my dad is ingenuitive in his own way. I was given a lot of creative freedom in my adolescence, and for that, I am very grateful.
Pricing:
- Bellydance shows start at $120
- Gogo dance starts at $25 / hour.
- Custom costumes start at $30 / hour + materials
Contact Info:
- Website: www.GigSalad.com/Nicole_Raven_Hollywood
- Email: ARavenDances@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Nikole_Raven/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ARavenDances
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