Kathy Liu
Genée Alumni
Kathy Liu
Bio
Kathy Liu began RAD training at Rachel’s Ballet starting at the age of four where she studied until just recently. Throughout her training she attended multiple summer programs such as the Joffrey Academy in Chicago, LINES Ballet Summer Program and the RAD USA Long Beach Intensive. Kathy attended the 2014 Genée in Antwerp where she was a semi-finalist. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Fordham University and the Ailey School in New York City.
Genée experience
The Genée was truly the culminating moment of all my dance training. Although the Genée is officially a competition, the atmosphere was extremely positive and all the candidates were supportive of each other. My favourite aspect of the Genée was the commissioned variation, because I love learning new choreography and adding my own artistry. I met so many other talent dancers from all around the world with whom I will most likely be friends with all my life!
What did you learn from the Genée?
Genée taught me the benefits of learning by observing. Every time an instructor gave a correction, even if it wasn’t specifically directed to me, I could apply to myself as well. The Genée also opened me up to (literally) an entire world of dance and dancers I would never have known otherwise.
What is your fondest memory from the competition?
Learning the commissioned variation with Ricardo Amarante was definitely my favourite memory. Ricardo has such an infectiously positive personality and his choreography is stunning; original but classical at the same time. I am so lucky to have worked with him, even if it was just for a short while!
Do you have any advice for future candidates?
Don’t make your experience all about winning a prize. Give it your all everyday and keep in mind your training. Spend time with people from different backgrounds, you can make true friends and learn so much.
Would you recommend the competition to others?
Absolutely. It’s a great place to make new friends and personal connections, which are invaluable in the dance community. Also, you get to learn and work with teachers and artists who are renown in the dance community.
How did the Genée benefit you personally or professionally?
Geneé was my first high-level competition, it was eye-opening experience for me, having trained at a small studio for most of my life. It definitely changed my mind-set for my future goals and training. After I returned from the competition, my teacher noticed my renewed drive and improvement!