-2017-

2017, a year filled with events and happenings journalists can only dream of, finds itself coming to an end. As the days count down till the ball drops in Times Square, I look back on my 2017 through articles I’ve published through The Daily Bruin and what went into producing them. Also keep a look out for some of 2017′s music highlights and my thoughts on them! 

February: Entering the Choreographic World of “La La Land”

“La La Land,” a film directed by Damien Chazelle, brought dreamlike colors and beats to the Los Angeles streets upon its 2016 release. One of the most remarkable aspects to the award-winning film was its quick and impressive choreography. As a dancer and avid movie-goer growing up in Los Angeles, I couldn’t resist reviewing the “La La Land” inspired choreography classes around the area. Donning my beige character shoes, black skirt and my sleek Yumkio leotard from my dance days, I hastened to follow jazz-like steps as Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone’s voices rang throughout the studio. Though months have passed since I jumped and twirled in the cramped 3rd Street Dance studio to “A Lovely Night,” I still find myself thinking about the fast dance steps as I watch the vibrant film in the comfort of my brown leather couch. 

-2017-

2017, a year filled with events and happenings journalists can only dream of, finds itself coming to an end. As the days count down till the ball drops in Times Square, I look back on my 2017 through articles I’ve published through The Daily Bruin and what went into producing them. Also keep a look out for some personal pieces on 2017′s music and entertainment highlights!  January: Disney Channel Choreographer Lilian Manansala

Shows like “That’s So Raven,” “Hannah Montana” and “Cory in the House” shaped my cringe-worthy, prepubescent sense of humor in the early 2000s. A central part to that young comedy was Raven’s lamp-breaking crumping moves, a piece of choreography created by UCLA world arts/culture alumna Lilian Manansala. In interviewing Manansala and other industry names, I’ve learned about what a Hollywood choreographer’s days on set look like, how she caters to her actors needs, and the most rewarding aspects of her job.