At simply 16 years outdated, Anaya Jones has so much on her plate—and it’s not simply her subsequent English paper. In 2024, she was topped Tremaine Dance Conference’s Freestyler of the Yr and took dwelling a number of first-place trophies at numerous competitions together with her self-choreographed hip hop solo. This previous summer time, she grew to become a member of the KĀOS Dance Conference’s KĀOS Squad and signed to Bloc, a prime expertise company.
Dance Spirit caught up with Jones to ask her about how she began her dance profession, her signature fashion, and the recommendation she’d give her youthful self.
How did you begin your dance coaching?
I’m initially from Miami, however now I reside in Naples, Florida. I started dancing once I was 3 and began on a contest workforce once I was 6. My cousins have been in dance courses, and I watched them sooner or later and got here dwelling and couldn’t cease dancing. My mother enrolled me in hip hop, however then I used to be so curious about how everybody was shifting (and having a lot enjoyable) that I needed to have enjoyable too. So I added jazz, ballet, and faucet.
Now, I compete with my workforce in faucet, jazz, up to date, and typically ballet and ballroom. I additionally choreographed my very own hip-hop solo final yr and once more this yr.
What are some highlights of your dance journey thus far?
The general progress I had this summer time in L.A. is a spotlight. At their occasion in Miami, I certified for the prospect to audition for the KĀOS Squad, so my mother and I went to Los Angeles for 2 weeks. Once I was there, one of many brokers from Bloc noticed me at school, requested my identify, and gave my mother her card. I used to be so stunned and pleased that she was from Bloc, as a result of they have been on the prime of my dream company record.
What’s one signature ingredient you embody in your choreography?
Once I was youthful, I taught myself to flip, and my present studio (Elite Dance Middle) helped me to wash up my methods.
What recommendation would you give to your youthful self?
My lecturers preach to me so much to have extra confidence in myself, as a result of I’m a superb dancer however are likely to lack confidence typically. Once I was youthful, I used to be bullied so much at school. Dance was my protected area. I’d inform my youthful self to maintain pushing, be extra assured, and by no means quit.
What are your dance bag necessities?
My headphones, as a result of once I’m backstage I’m at all times listening to both my dance’s music or calm music, like Mac DeMarco, that makes me really feel like I’m floating on air.
What would you do when you weren’t a dancer?
I’d most likely do observe, as a result of I like to be athletic. I’d be a observe star, hopefully!
Any dream dance jobs?
I might positively like to go on excursions, get into commercials, get into motion pictures which have dance scenes. I’d like to do a music video sooner or later. I actually need to work with Parris Goebel and Robbie Blue. Then, I’d wish to develop into a dance instructor to encourage children.
Fave food and drinks?
Tacos, and Dr. Pepper!
What’s your favourite dance outfit?
At all times saggy garments. I’ve these saggy crimson pants from City Outfitters, and a crop prime.