A little about Jody:

• Where are You From? “Wilkes Barre Twp”

• Did you come from a family that was already interested in dance? “No. My mother put me in dance because she didn’t know what else to do with me. I used to sing and dance on my couch so I could see myself in the mirror behind it. I drove her crazy everyday with the radio cranked up and my cowboy boots on, dancing to ‘These Boots Are Made for Walking.’”

Life as a dancer:

• What is the most memorable performance you’ve seen? “The most memorable performance I have seen was probably the first time I went to see the Radio City Christmas Show with the Rockettes.”

• Why did you first become interested in dance? “I don’t know–I was too young to remember why I liked dance. I just know I did.”

• Is there a specific dancer, choreographer, or even a composer, who has inspired you as a dancer? “I have studied from many great choreographers through master classes and conventions, but the teacher I remember and admire the most was one of my first teachers…Miss Stacy. I wanted to be just like her when I was little.”

Working in Dance:

• For how many years have you taught dance? “At my school we went through a teacher training program, so I have been working in the classroom as a teacher’s assistant and aide since I was 15. I didn’t have my own class until I was 17, so about six years of actual teaching.”

• How would you compare the pressures and responsibilities of performing and teaching? Which role do you prefer? “Teaching is a great feeling. I will never forget my first class and the first time they went on stage. No matter what the age or how long you have been teaching, watching each class perform is a new feeling of accomplishment. However, I would much rather be performing. After 20 years of dance, performing is something I look forward to. There is nothing like being on stage in front of all those people.”

• When it comes to dance and the dance industry, you are often the go-to person for advice on…? “Tap: its my favorite. And costumes.”