Universoul Circus has hired FAMU student, Dayzsa Gartrell, 22, as their featured ballerina. She will travel with the circus performing in the ballerina role, as well as in the hip-hop choreography.
Gartrell’s dance journey began at the age of nine when she participated in a local talent show. Impressed by her performance, she was invited to dance with Jacksonville Center of The Arts. Since then, she has danced with Mahogany Dance Theatre at Florida A&M University and Atlanta Dance Connection in Atlanta, GA.
While in Atlanta, Gartrell auditioned for the role with the Universoul Circus. “I auditioned with about 13 other women and they actually didn’t even choose anyone from the audition,” Gartrell said.
Knowing that performing is something she was born to do, Gartrell continued to dance at her church and teach classes in Atlanta. “Her dancing is breathtaking. There’s an anointing over her body,” said Samaria Scott, Gartrell’s childhood friend.
Gartrell was offered the role months after her initial audition through a friend whom she had been substitute teaching for. “This really came at the perfect time. I had been feeling discouraged and really in need of a new gig.”
“I know that this is meant for her. Once she started dancing, I knew she had something special. She’s really blossomed into a beautiful woman,” said Dayzsa’s mom, Saboria Lamar.
Her first show was in January 2013, Gartrell will continue traveling with the circus throughout their yearlong U.S. tour. She will finish her education through online classes. While her dance career is growing, Gartrell is also learning new languages and cultures from her fellow cast members. She describes the contortionists as her favorite act.
The Universoul Circus premiered its first show in 1994 and is celebrating 19 years this 2013 touring season. For information on Universoul Circus tour schedule visit http://www.universoulcircus.com/schedule
To see more of Dayzsa Gartrell’s dancing performances visit http://www.youtube.com/user/Dayboo1990/videos?view=0&flow=grid