15-year-old actor, singer, dancer Nia Sioux makes a killer off-Broadway debut performing hits of the 1960s like "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'", "Moon River," and "Wipe Out" in the incredibly fun Vegas-style revue Trip of Love. Sioux is best known as a fan favorite on the hit reality series Dance Moms and as a recording artist.
BroadwayBox caught up with Nia to hear from her about making the big debut, life on the show, and her dreams of The Wiz.
1. The most surprising thing about making my off-Broadway debut:
I anticipated the beautiful choreography but never imagined the number of stunning costumes and the quick changes that accompany some of these lovely costumes. In one number alone I have 3 quick changes! We have an awesome team of dressers. A lot goes into the magical Trip of Love journey!
2. Before friends, family, and fans come to see Trip of Love, I tell them:
They're going to love it because it's so much fun!!! Every night is like a party— celebrating the '60s through song and dance.
3. My Trip of Love warm-up includes:
Before every show I have a stretching routine that I follow to loosen my limbs and get my muscles warm. One of my favorite moments is warming up with my other cast mates.
4. Through the six seasons of Dance Moms I’ve learned about myself:
During six seasons of Dance Moms, I've learned to pick up choreography quickly and that work ethic is definitely paying off now in my preparation for Trip of Love.
5. The most memorable interaction I’ve had with a fan:
My first live performance in Australia was one of the most memorable interactions with fans. I performed in Australia and over 1,000 people came to see me sing “Star in Your Own Life”. The fans were so friendly and supportive! People were cheering and there was even a runway in the middle of the crowd where people strutted as I sang. It was amazing!!! The energy was high and it was an unforgettable experience.
6. Three things I need when I’m getting red carpet ready:
My red carpet staples include lip gloss, an extra phone charger, and comfortable shoes to change into after the event.
7. My dream role in a musical:
I am living my dream role in Trip of Love right now. It is a spectacular show! I am dancing in an off-Broadway stage at 15!!! I hope The Wiz comes to Broadway because I could play a great Dorothy or Glinda!
8. Movie I love so much that I know every single word:
I can quote lines from Frozen and all the High School Musicals but my favorite movie ever is The Wiz.
9. Song that could always make me get up and dance:
When I hear the music for the "Running Man Challenge", I cannot wait to get up and dance. Who doesn't like doing the running man? I hear that song and it does not matter if I am with friends or alone—I have to dance.
10. My advice for aspiring young dancers:
Star in your own life is the best advice I can give any aspiring dancer. Define yourself and work hard to develop your talent. No one gets to star in your life but you.
See Nia Sioux's off-Broadway debut in 'Trip of Love' at Stage 42.
