Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Sylvester.
Tara, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My story begins in the church, as cliche as that may sound. I saw my first dance performance at 9 years old, and I could not control my emotions. I was overwhelmed with the music, the confidence, and the power that these young women possessed as they performed. Dancing became my one and only passion from then on. Shortly after, I became the choreographer over the dance team at my church. I would take inspiration, as well as choreography, from dance videos from artist like Janet Jackson, Aaliyah, Britney Spears, and many more to add more flare to the gospel scene. Although I wasn’t technically trained at a young age, I was blessed to have a natural gift that has catapulted me into the world of professional dance. Since 2017, I have been dancing at venues, in music videos, and international festivals all over the world with countless artist. For the past 6 years, I have had the pleasure of being a lead dancer for Big Freedia, and I can’t stress enough how amazing it has been. The people I’ve met, the things I’ve learned from being in the presence of that type of greatness, the connections I’ve been able to make for myself or my loved ones are things that words cannot describe. I have a lot more goals to accomplish and a lot of dreams that I have manifested that will come to past, so stay tuned for more with Bobbi!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My dance journey has not been the easiest; however, I would not change anything about my journey in this industry up to this point because it’s made me the professional that I am today, and I will continue to strive to be great. I have been told “No” so many times because of my weight, my background, as well as the dance community that I come from. I can admit that it was very discouraging at some times. I thought I would never see the day that I would see my name in lights. I thought I would never see the inside of an audition room, let alone know the name of producers and choreographers that I’ve looked up to for years. My journey is far from completion, and even though I may not be through with doors being closed in my face, I am ready to endure this journey and strive with every fiber of my being to set myself up for success.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a self-taught professional dancer from New Orleans, and I specialize in Hip-Hop, New Orleans Bounce (Twerking), Liturgical (Spiritual/Inspirational dance), Flexing, Voguing, Heels, as well as beginners Ballet. As a traveling professional, I am known for my bounce dance and the female/male aspect I can bring to the stage, but I am also known for my hip hop swag that I can bring to any performance. I am truly proud of the fact that I am still traveling the world entertaining different people from any generation, cultural background, or music preference. I am so proud at the fact that my journey is far from over!
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Personally, I am a firm believer in networking. The only way I got started in this Nola Dance Community is through word of mouth. You never know who is in the smallest of rooms to the biggest of stages. I make sure I say my name as many times as I can followed by my title. It adds a boost of confidence as well as a bit of reassurance that you are worthy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobbi.504/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tara.yaheardmeh/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFifeWT3X-k
