Welcome to the JJGirl Spotlight, a new series featuring the smart, talented, fearless young faces of Jo+Jax.
This week, all eyes are on 17-year-old Jacalyn Tatro from Naperville, IL. Jacalyn competes with her studio, Inspire School of Dance — and so does her sister! The two landed the top two spots in the New York City Dance Alliance Outstanding Dancer competition this past summer, with the title ultimately going to Jacalyn. “It was the most exciting moment in my dance career,” says Jacalyn. “She won first runner-up and I won first place, but in that moment it didn’t matter who won. We both had each other’s love and support and excitement for each other.” Love that! Read on to learn more about this spotlight-worthy superstar.
Favorite dance styles: Jazz and ballet
Favorite teachers: Joey Dowling and Suzi Taylor. “They’re both so down-to-earth, and they pull something so unique and different out of you as a dancer and person. Plus, their choreography feels amazing to dance and live in.”
Dance idols: Sarah Pippin, Dana Wilson, Ida Saki, Maddi Burg, and Andy Pellick. “They all have the most beautiful souls and qualities to them, and they share their joy for dance so easily with the audience.”
Dream dance role: “I don’t have a set role I’ve dreamed about. I would love to do all kinds of projects and jobs involving dance — as long as I’m dancing, I’ll be happy. I would love to either be in New York City or Los Angeles for sure, though!”
Favorite school subject: English. “It allows me to be creative and bring personal experiences into my writing.”
Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be? “Brussels sprouts or sushi!”
Favorite book: Emmy and Oliver
Must-see TV: New Girl, One Tree Hill, and Friends
Favorite movie: 10 Things I Hate About You
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? “New York City during Christmas. Although that doesn’t sound super exciting, I absolutely love Christmas more than anything, and I want to see all the decorations and festive trees and snow, and want to feel like I’m in a giant winter wonderland. Christmas is the best time of year, and I’d love to see how Times Square is filled with all the holiday spirit.”
If you could perform a duet with anyone, who would it be? “Martha Nichols, because she is amazing in every way. She’s so funny and great to work with, and she has always inspired me to be more creative and to be a better person and dancer. Being able to dance with her would push me in new ways I normally wouldn’t imagine I could do.”
If your life were a movie, who would you cast in it? “Selena Gomez would play me, because I like to tell myself I look like her even though I don’t at all! (I can keep dreaming though!) My best friend would be played my Jennifer Aniston, because I think she’s lovely and seems so supportive, like all my friends are. Finally, my love interest would definitely be Dave Franco because he’s extremelyyyyyyyyy attractive!”
Favorite way to hit the stage: “My favorite type of routine to perform is a good ol’ solo. I love being able to show the audience my own self, and to bring out a certain emotion that can’t be expressed in a group dance. There’s something about being onstage all alone that makes me lose myself in the music, dance my heart out, and just do what I love. Plus, it’s easier to fool the audience if you make a mistake!”
Favorite Jo+Jax: “Everything! It’s so hard to choose. I really love the Cali Top, and I have it in every color. It’s super comfortable and supportive. I’m also obsessed with all the warm-ups and rompers and shorts and leggings. I wish I could have everything — it’s all so cute and comfortable!”