Last summer, while touring for The Weeknd, Numéro had the chance to sit down and get to know Randi, Laia, Tarra, Kat, and Sammy, to discuss what it's like to be a dancer on tour including preparation, memories and future plans. Here is how it went...
In conversation with Randi Liberman 

When did you begin dancing? Can you tell us a bit about your journey?

I began dancing at a very young age – I honestly cannot remember a period of my life without dance! Besides dancing around my living room constantly as a kid, I have been in dance classes since the age of 5 and began training more intensely in my teenage years. Growing up in Montreal Canada, I trained in many styles although Hip Hop was a favorite very early on. I also began teaching at a very young age, assisting my teacher at the age of 10 and then teaching my own classes at 14 years old. Teaching is a huge part of my passion for dance and has always been a part of who I am as a dancer. Training in Montreal, allowed me to begin gaining some work experience in dance although I quickly realized that if I wanted to pursue my dreams of dancing on the biggest stages next to some of the best dancers out there, I’d need to make the leap & move to Los Angeles. At the age of 28 I had received my artists work visa(a whole process in itself) and had finally made the big move. Coming from Canada and not knowing many people yet in LA, made for a long and difficult journey but with hard work, resilience and perseverance, I can proudly say I have truly accomplished some of my biggest dreams-and I ain’t done yet! 

What is the preparation process like for a tour? Tell us about the rehearsal process as well as any preparations you do before stepping on stage.

In my experience, preparation for a tour can range from 3 days to 3 weeks or more, depending on the show & on the artist. Certain shows are more dance heavy and require more rehearsal time. Certain shows will also require more time rehearsing with the artist compared to others where the artist is less involved in the dancing. There will usually be rehearsal in studio prior to rehearsal on stage, and sometimes the hours can be grueling. The rehearsal process is usually the most dance intensive part of tour.

Before showtime, I always make sure to stretch and warm up my body-with specific focuses depending on the show. I will also review my choreography, focusing on any changes made for the upcoming show or any cues/spacing I need to review prior to stepping on stage. I love to get myself into performance mode by doing this, even if I’ve already performed the show more than 20 times before! I also love connecting with the other artists I’m about to perform with so hitting a quick huddle with the crew or just giving props or a “good show” to each person before stepping on stage is important to get me into stage mode too! One other thing I’ll add is that throughout tour I will be sure to keep up with my workouts, healthy eating habits, and try my best to get good sleep as well. These things become so important in order to stay in good shape to be able to do your job at your best ability, while also enjoying your time on the road!

What are some of the dearest memories you hold from your touring experience?

Some of my favorite moments on tour are the ones spent with the amazing ppl I have the pleasure of working with. From working through performance obstacles, to exploring new countries around the world together, it really is the people you get to share these experiences with that makes all the difference. As the performance aspect of tour only takes up maybe 10% of your time, it really is the memories I create with others that sticks out in my mind when thinking of past tours.

If you had to describe the tour life experience in three words what would they be?

Priceless, life changing, insightful 

And finally, what’s next for you?

My next big plan is to continue building my work in choreography & artistic creation/direction. I have been working with a few new artists and am very excited to see where their new projects take them! Dancing and performing are a huge part of who I am but teaching, creating and collaborating with others are huge passions of mine as well!

In conversation with Laia Giralt Cortada

When did you begin dancing? Can you tell us a bit about your journey.

Funny story; I first started dancing when I was 10 years old because I was a little bit chubby and my mum wanted me to exercise more. I tried basketball and taekwondo too but dance is the only thing that really stuck with me. A couple years later I started competing with a hip hop crew and incorporating other skills to my performing arts training like acting and singing. I would train very intensely everyday after school while keeping up with my A grades until I finished high school. At 18 I decided to move from my little town in Spain to London in order to pursue my dance career. After some more training there and trips to LA for intensive practice I booked my first job in London at 21. I was lucky enough to get some amazing opportunities and work with some of London’s biggest artists, tv shows and movies for 4 years until I decided I wanted more. I was ready for a new challenge and to work with the best and biggest artists in the world so I decided to take a risk and move to LA. Getting the visa paperwork, moving across the globe and surviving a global pandemic were definitely huge battles but going through them made me stronger and more prepared for the blessings on the other side. I feel so thankful to have had the chance to work for artists such as Pharrell, The Weeknd, JLo, Lil Baby, Rosalia, Nicki Minaj, Ricky Martin, JBalvin, Little Mix and many more. At 29 I’m currently on the biggest job of my life doing a Global Stadium Tour and it’s crazy to look back and reflect on my journey. I’m definitely proud of how far I’ve come.

What is the preparation process like for a tour? Tell us about the rehearsal process as well as any preparations you do before stepping on stage.

It usually consists of a rehearsal period in LA where you learn and practice the choreography for all the numbers you’ll be dancing and a period of production rehearsals (usually somewhere else) where you get to practice in the actual stage and put the entire show together with the artist, the music, the lights, the costumes, the props, etc. until everything is ready for opening night. The length and intensity of this preparation process really depends on the tour, as every project is different, but it’s usually the toughest part of the entire tour.

Before stepping on stage is always essential to warm up your body in order to avoid any injuries. That also translates into taking care of your body daily, working out, stretching, doing yoga and eating well to stay on top of your game. Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready! A lot of times we’ll have some sort of ritual like a group prayer or high fiving/hugging before we start to wish each other good luck for the show.

What are some of the dearest memories you hold from your touring experience? 

The biggest perk I love about touring is the opportunity of getting to see the world and experience different cultures. I’m very passionate about travel so the fact that my job has allowed me to see so many countries and create memories for life makes me feel extremely lucky. However, the one I hold the dearest to my heart was to be able to go back to Barcelona on tour and have my entire family come to watch the show. It was the first time they had seen me perform since I moved out at 18 so that felt incredibly special.

On the other hand, something I’ll keep forever in my heart is some of the lifelong friendships that I’ve been able to form through my touring experience. When you get to work so closely and intensely with a group of people for so long they end up becoming your family, and those are relationships I’ll cherish forever.

If you had to describe the tour life experience in three words what would they be?

Travel, work, family

And finally, what’s next for you?

I would love for this new year of life (my 30th!) to bring some more new and exciting opportunities, stability and peace. Right now I want to keep dancing and traveling for as long as I can and accomplishing as much as I can in my career. Down the line, maybe in a few years or whenever I’m ready to leave the stage, I would like to settle down and start my own family. 

In conversation with Tarra Green

When did you begin dancing? Can you tell us a bit about your journey.

I commenced my journey in the world of dance when I was just 5 years old, and it has been an incredible 27-year-long passion of mine. My upbringing was marked by competitive dancing in a town just outside of Detroit, Michigan, known as Chesterfield. We often ventured to various states for competitions, participating in a wide array of categories such as jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop, and contemporary.

It was during a dance workshop in Los Angeles that I developed a deep affection for their dance community, leading me to set my sights on establishing a career in the field. Following the completion of my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance at Wayne State University, I embarked on my professional dance journey in California. My time here has been transformative, not only in my dance career but also in my personal growth. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with numerous renowned artists, including Beyoncé, The Weeknd, Doja Cat, J Balvin, and many others. The challenges I’ve faced along this path have been invaluable in shaping the individual and dancer I am today, for which I am profoundly grateful.

What is the preparation process like for a tour? Tell us about the rehearsal process as well as any preparations you do before stepping on stage.

The preparation process differs from one stage to the next and varies from artist to artist. In some instances, you might find yourself rehearsing for several months in preparation for a tour, while in other cases, it could be just a matter of weeks. Each unique process imparts valuable lessons, fostering growth as both a performer and an individual. Some experiences may present formidable challenges, while others offer distinct rewards.

All in all, each process has contributed to my personal and professional development in ways that I couldn’t have envisioned. Whether it involves mastering new rhythms and styles that are unfamiliar to me or forming deep connections with newfound friends and colleagues who have become like family, there’s a positive blessing to be found in every encounter, no matter the challenges faced.

What are some of the dearest memories you hold from your touring experience? 

I’ve encountered countless enchanting moments during my time on tour, and I’m immensely appreciative of each one. Touring with such a diverse group of women has been an authentic gift. Each of them possesses unique and beautiful qualities from which I’ve learned and will carry with me throughout my life. To embark on this journey and be able to truthfully say that I’ve formed a sisterly bond with each individual is a treasure I will forever hold dear.
Manifestation is a profound phenomenon that often goes unnoticed by many. I’ve manifested the ability to pursue my passion and explore the world. The fact that I’m currently living in that moment is incredibly surreal to me. Every day, I express my gratitude to God for granting me the opportunity to live out my dreams. It’s truly magical to travel to different countries and fully immerse oneself in their diverse cultures. These are times that will remain unforgettable for me.

If you had to describe the tour life experience in three words what would they be?

Exhilarating, Transformative, and Adaptive 

And finally, what’s next for you? 

I can never have absolute certainty about what the future holds, but one thing I am sure of is that this won’t be the final chapter of my global dance journey. I’m perpetually committed to increasing my knowledge and pushing the boundaries of my experiences each year. I firmly believe in the significance of giving back and sharing one’s talents with others. I’m still on the path towards being able to impart the wisdom and expertise I’ve accumulated throughout my entire career to others. That remains my ultimate objective, and I am determined to achieve it someday.

In conversation with Katrina Jones

When did you begin dancing? Can you tell us a bit about your journey.

I started dancing at a very young age. Basically, my sister would take me to her dance classes while babysitting me and I wouldn’t sit still in her class. I’d always find my way to the floor longing to dance with them (and then get in trouble). I continued dancing since then, training in classic styles. Around 13 years old I made the decision that I wanted to be a professional dancer. Since then, I’ve trained in all sorts of performance and street styles and worked with many brands and artists like Nike, Uber Eats, Virgin Mobile, The Grammys, The Oscars, Snoop Dogg, The Weeknd world tour and many more.

What is the preparation process like for a tour? Tell us about the rehearsal process as well as any preparations you do before stepping on stage.

It’s a whirlwind. Depending on the camp (what we call production groups) we have more or less time to prepare. Getting dance numbers off the ground with little time, a huge stage and constant changes can be stressful but it’s wonderful to see everyone’s resilience and professionalism in those times.

Before we take the stage I usually run the show by myself, review my spacing/notes and stretch. My favorite though is prayer. We always pray before we walk to stage. 

What are some of the dearest memories you hold from your touring experience? 

Spending time with my coworkers. These women on my current job are so dynamic and inspirational. Recently, I went to the sand dunes in Peru to sand buggy and surf with my coworkers. There were laughs, screams and happy tears. My dearest show memory is from Dublin, Ireland. Feeding off the energy of the crowd and dancing in the rain while the greenery of the land engulfed us was absolutely riveting.

If you had to describe the tour life experience in three words what would they be?

Twirly, fast-paced, developmental

And finally, what’s next for you?

This is the perfect question as I’m currently ending a tour experience. I’m not exactly sure what’s next. This industry is like a roller coaster, so anything can be right around the corner. However, I now know what I value most in my career; which is the ability to show my artistry, reciprocal value and pushing the standard on industry compensation norms. I’d like to work with Chris Brown and Kendrick Lamar and/or on a movie or TV series but ultimately I’m looking forward to whatever is next with my values in mind. 

In conversation with Samaria Stewart 

When did you begin dancing? Can you tell us a bit about your journey.

I started dancing in 2013 which was my freshman year of highschool , so I would say around 14 or 15. I auditioned for my highschool majorette team after falling in love with the marching band. Luckily and surprisingly I made the team and went on to become one of the captains. Outside of that I continued to study dance in and outside of school.

What is the preparation process like for a tour? Tell us about the rehearsal process as well as any preparations you do before stepping on stage.

Honestly for me the preparation process for tour is quite easy. As far as packing and having my necessities im usually on point with that. I make a list and check it twice. The rehearsal process to me is a great one. You get to learn your castmates a little more each day and also you experience all the changes and decisions with them. It’s usually a full day or weeks process of just getting in mode of the character you play on that stage. That comes with dancing all day , changing eating habits and just pushing yourself to a new norm. Before stepping on stage , I always have to calm myself down because these were just dreams one day to me. I prep with liquids , hit a quick stretch, get a snack, then I’m usually ready to move forward. 

What are some of the dearest memories you hold from your touring experience?

Being able to travel the world and see things that people in my family could never imagine. To be able to share pictures , stories and so many great things with them is great. Watching my cast mates be able to feel free and be super grateful for all god has given them is a great thing to watch. I’ve learned a lot from touring as a business woman, as an entertainer … and as a human most importantly. 

If you had to describe the tour life experience in three words what would they be?

Surprising, adventurous, humbling 

And finally, what’s next for you?!

I don’t know and i’m okay not knowing , so far the surprises have been my wildest dreams.