In our last article, we put Rachell and Peter van der Veek under the spotlight to share their experiences and mindsets as dancers as well as dance teachers. This time we are focusing on the inspirational Chia-I and Aila, who are some of the most dedicated teachers at our studio. Don’t believe us? See for yourself below!
Chia-I Liu
Where were you born?
Taiwan.
When did dance come into your life?
I started dancing after I had done the responsible ‘growing up’ - school, travel, work, marriage, children etc. Dancing at UCan2 Dance Studio started as my once a week activity to have some ME time after my boys bed time. 12 years later, I’m still dancing and loving it.
Who was the most influential person in your life?
My parents. They brought me up free range-style and yet their everyday teaching disciplined me and made me who I am today. I’m forever grateful.
What is one fun fact about you?
I eat more than most men.
What was the happiest time of your life?
Everyday is the happiest time of my life! I live every day to its fullest.
What is your favourite genre or style of dancing?
I think I’m always going to be a ballroom girl.
If you had never learned to dance, what do you think you’d be doing now?
See… it was a choice between dancing or painting. If I had chosen painting instead of dancing back in the day, I might have been an artist by now.
What is one style of dance you wish you learned / could do better?
Hip Hop… it was a disaster when I tried it. I think it’s time I give it another go.
What was a time when you felt incredibly proud of your dancing career, as a dancer or as a teacher?
When my students walk out on the competition floor, regardless of their placing, and they give me the ‘winning’ smile because they know they gave us their best and they were feeling proud of themselves.
My proudest moment of my dancing career had to be every time I stood on the 1st place podium with my GOLD medals.
Why do you teach dancing? What do you get out of it?
"Dancing is the joy of movement and the heart of life. It is the hidden language of the soul” - M. Graham.
I teach to connect with people. I teach to share my joy for dancing through movement and heart. I love it!
What is your favourite thing about UCan2 Dance Studio?
We are one big happy family; life-long friendship is found and built here. We love, we dance and we support each other through life’s ups and downs.
What is your passion, or a favourite hobby, outside of dancing?
LEGO - I have a rather large collection.
One piece of advice for aspiring/ beginner dancers?
Patience, Positive Thoughts and Practise! Believe in yourselves! With a little of your dedication in practice time and effort, everything is possible!
What do you value most and why?
PEOPLE & LOVE - I love everyone who is worthy of my love. I also make sure I allow and be loved by everyone who generously loves me.
What song are you most enjoying dancing to right now?
“Can’t take my eyes off you” - Frankie Valli, my wedding couple’s song choice and it has been lingering in my head since.
They wrote to me back on the evening of their wedding - “ CHIA! You would be so so proud of us! We absolutely nailed it!”
What’s your favourite quote?
There is a quote: “You only live once!” WRONG!!!
We only die once! We live EVERY DAY!!! Always make the most of every day!
Anything else you’d like to share?
Every day is a good day for dancing. Keep smiling and keep dancing.
Aila Bai
Where were you born?
China.
When did dance come into your life?
At 12 years old.
What is one fun fact about you?
When someone asks you, what is the capital of China? You can answer my Chinese name: Bai Jing!!
What was the happiest time of your life?
Coming to Auckland, New Zealand, where I was lucky enough to meet some friends I really like through dancing.
What is your favourite genre or style of dancing?
Elegant style.
If you had never learned to dance, what do you think you’d be doing now?
I would consider starting to learn dance because learning new skills is always interesting, and dance can bring physical and mental benefits.
What is one style of dance you wish you learned / could do better?
I hope to have my own style in my dance.
What was a time when you felt incredibly proud of your dancing career, as a dancer or as a teacher?
I’m yet to have that moment.
Why do you teach dancing? What do you get out of it?
I found that being a dance teacher in New Zealand was the easiest thing for me.
What is your favourite thing about UCan2 Dance Studio?
It is a very professional dance organisation.
What is your passion, or a favourite hobby, outside of dancing?
I am an expert in succulent plant care. I can grow beautiful succulent plants.
One piece of advice for aspiring/ beginner dancers?
Finding the right teacher or course is crucial. Choosing an experienced dance instructor who specialises in beginners can help you quickly improve your skills.
What do you value most and why?
Hope to be encouraged, affirmed, appreciated and liked.
What song are you most enjoying dancing to right now?
Ed Sheeran - Perfect (Official Music Video).
What’s the most misunderstood thing about being a dancer?
As a dancer, one might also fear being misunderstood in expressing intentions and emotions, as dance is often a non-verbal form of expression that can sometimes be misinterpreted or misunderstood by the audience.
What’s your favourite quote?
The dance is a kind of poetry of the body, sometimes expressing more than words.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I want to say thank you to Principal Harry. He gave me high expectations and encouraged me to participate in the Latin competition for New Zealand vocational groups. A great dance teacher provides students with encouragement and confidence, as well as sufficient professional skills and support!
If you want to work with any of these amazing people, book a lesson with them now or take one of our classes!