Lucy Angel is one of many young performers working in hospitality and retail while her dreams are on hold.
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The 18-year-old dancer should have been returning overseas this year to study, perform and compete in dance competitions - but the COVID-19 pandemic put a dent in that plan.
Miss Angel might be the one who brings a coffee to your table, but she's also an acclaimed dancer who this week is a step closer to another trophy.
The Mount Pleasant performer is competing in heat three of the renowned Sharp Short Dance competition, usually held in Parramatta but has moved to an online format.
"It's weird ... personally, I like to be able to perform on a stage in front of an audience as it's harder to get your intention across to other individuals through a camera," she said.
Theres a lot of dancers in Australia but not enough opportunities for all of us to work.
- Lucy Angel
Despite the oddness and having to alter choreography to suit, to win the competition would add another notch in her belt - which also includes performing with the Russian Imperial Ballet on their Australian tour.
"I just want to be able to have a job in the industry or a company, somewhere, anywhere in the world," she said.
"Being able to dance on stage in front of people and inspire people to dance is really special."
Until international travel is the norm again, Miss Angel will continue honing her craft after being accepted into the Sydney Dance Company pre-professional program, and continue to find opportunities to be seen - like the Short Sharp Dance.
Reality television talent shows, however, won't be an avenue for success the teen wants to take.
"It was a dream for a hot second; I could see myself getting the golden buzzer," Miss Angel said.
"I feel like if I were to go on there I'd probably do some weird contemporary dance and everyone would be weirded out."
Lucy Angel's contemporary dance "Moonlight" is available for view in the Short Sharp Dance until Thursday, visit www.form.org.au
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