Dance has always been Daisy Sonter-Kelso’s number one passion since she was four-years-old.
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Now the Craze Dance Academy graduate is on the pathway to success.
Seventeen years later and the former local, who once graced countless stages and received many accolades, is now living her dream on a showgirl contract aboard Superstar Cruises Virgo Ship.
Daisy is half way through a contract, which started in December and is based in Singapore travelling South East Asia.
She performs 12 shows per week highlighted by Showgirl, Moulin Rouge and Lido De Paris Style and has one day free. Daisy has an option to extend the contract.
The shows are fast pace with various styles consisting of jazz, ballet, contemporary, lyrical and cabaret.
“There is also a lot of acting involved in each piece. I have also recently started performing in an extra magic show where I am the magician’s assistant,’’ Daisy said.
“This show is really high pressure as I make the illusions work by hiding in tiny boxes and appearing really quickly so there is no room for mistakes.’’
Aside from work, the ship travels to Malaysia, Thailand and back to Singapore three times a week.
“We can usually leave the ship for half a day in each country if it doesn't clash with our performance schedule and that gives me the opportunity to see many beautiful parts of Asia and travel while I'm working,’’ Daisy said.
The ship life has been a huge change for Daisy and it took a little while to adjust.
The entertainment cast on the ship are all Russian and there is a large language barrier with most of the performers.
“I have met some beautiful people though and am making friends for life. I was also lucky enough to come with another Australian girl from Taree, Vanessa Gill and she has been a great support,’’ Daisy said.
Daisy is a fine of example of the talented performers under the experienced guidance of Laura and her dedicated instructors.
“Laura instilled in me a great love and discipline for dancing that you have to have if you want to get anywhere in the industry,’’ Daisy said.
“I am forever grateful for the solid foundation and training she passed onto me, as quality training in the country areas is hard to come by and Inverell is so lucky to have such dedicated dance teachers and studios.”
Many teachers in the industry have commented to Daisy over the years on her strong technique and asked where she has trained.
Daisy admits it has been a hard road to reach her current status performing in elite company.
“Receiving my first overseas dance contract has been a long time coming as there were many knockbacks over the years and I have been very close to throwing it all in at times,” she said.
“A wise woman once told me good things come to those who wait” - this is just the beginning and I am so excited for my first big break in the dance industry and I am forever grateful to my family who have supported me every step of the way.
“Like any job there is the ups and downs but overall I am having the time of my life and I'm so happy to have this experience,” she said.