For most people dancing is an occasional weekend pastime. For Scott MacDonald, dancing means so much more. This form of expression has allowed MacDonald, a senior at Florida State, to lose and find himself through music and movement. Coming from a person who has seen MacDonald dance, believe me when I say that his energy and intensity can make sparks fly. Through the incredible dance group Corazón, he has been able to grow as a dancer and as an instructor. He sat down with Her Campus to share with us his life as a dancer.
Her Campus (HC): When did you first fall in love with salsa?
Scott MacDonald (SM): I first fell in love with salsa when my friend dragged me into the Latin Dance Club my sophomore year of high school. After learning the steps, I realized how much I was able to connect with the music and express myself.
HC: How long have you been dancing?
SM: I danced about two years in high school, just as a hobby. With Corazón, this is my third year dancing in a team atmosphere with specific training for social dancing and performances.
HC: What is Corazón and how did you get involved?
SM: The Corazón Dancers is an RSO (registered student organization) at FSU that practices LA style salsa. They are a dedicated group of students who not only train and perform nationally, but also teach the Tallahassee community. I got involved by randomly walking in on one of their practices in my dorm lounge, and auditioned for their team two weeks later.
HC: Give a brief description of your position in the group and the responsibilities that come with it.
SM: This is my second year as the rehearsal director of Corazón. That basically means I am the head teacher to the team. I’m in charge of helping the team grow and improve in technique and choreography.
HC: What is it about salsa – or dancing in general, that inspires you and/or keeps you going?
SM: Dancing is the most amazing feeling to me. It is my outlet, my escape from reality, which allows me to express my deepest emotions inside. I love dancing because I get to share a connection with music, and allow the music to take control and move me how it wants to. I have never had a bigger passion in my life. I was born to dance.
HC: How would you characterize your style?
SM: My style of dance is very energetic and passionate. I like to always be moving, always spinning, always doing crazy tricks and turns. At the same time however, I keep my movements in sync with the music to try and match its overall tone or message.
HC: Have you traveled for any competitions or performances? How was that like?
SM: I’ve had the most amazing opportunity to perform at the Las Vegas Salsa Congress and the Puerto Rico Salsa Congress.
HC: What are your plans after graduation?
SM: I have a job offer at a dance studio teaching salsa as soon as I graduate. I plan to teach while training to perform in as many places as I can to get my name out there, and one day open my own dance studio to share my passion with as many people I can come in contact with.
HC: How can readers get involved with this group?
SM: Definitely check us out on our Facebook page where we post our latest events and news!