How did you get your stage name?
It’s a very powerful name. “Alma” means soul, and “Lakota” is the tribal name of Crazy Horse, the Indian chief after whom the cabaret is named. Lakota also means friend in Navajo. My name reflects my holistic vision of the world. My earth and air side. I’m a grounded but spiritual person, with a great sense of community and sisterhood.
How did you get into dance?
I’m from Connecticut. I started ballet at the age of three. As I grew up, I realized that dance could become a career. My parents immediately supported me in this choice. They brought me up with the idea that we each had to choose our own path, as long as we aimed for excellence. That’s how I decided on my first goal: to join the legendary Radio City Rockettes troupe in New York. At 18, I left my home town with $600 in my pocket and my head filled with dreams. I auditioned seven times before being accepted by the Rockettes, but I made it! Then I danced with the famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
In 2022, during a trip to Paris, I went to a show at Crazy Horse Paris. I was completely fascinated by the aesthetics, precision and energy of the dancers… I knew then and there that I wanted to be part of it. So I focused my training on dancing in heels, working with a friend who had danced for artists such as Beyoncé and Lady Gaga. On the day of the audition, I wasn’t sure I’d be chosen, but I was determined to give it my best shot… and here I am!
How do you feel when you dance on stage?
This stage is incredible! It’s not just about dancing, but also about playing with the audience. This adds an emotional and playful dimension to every performance, and I love it. On stage, I try to make the women in the audience feel what powerful, magical beings they are, so that they carry that feeling with them when they leave.
Who is Alma Lakota?
Alma is first and foremost a part of me, but she isn’t me. It has been very interesting to build up Alma’s character bit by bit during rehearsals and performances… A certain way of wearing eyeliner, of looking, of moving: each artistic choice contributes to deepening her personality. I’d describe her as ambitious, curious and mischievous. She’s also serious and likes to see things through to the end. Last but not least, she’s slightly dangerous… Let’s just say that if you play with Alma, you might burn your fingers!
Has becoming a Crazy Girl changed your vision of your body and of femininity?
Before Crazy Horse Paris, I already believed in myself as a dancer. Since coming here, I feel even more proud of my body and what it can achieve. Crazy Horse Paris has taught me to appreciate my body in a new way, to love it and take care of it. It’s a place where I’ve found great strength and a deep rooted self-confidence. But I’ve also found an incredible solidarity with the other girls. We’re more than a troupe, we’re a family. That also shapes our vision of femininity in the broadest sense.
What female icons inspire you in life?
Crazy Horse Paris is full of inspiring women! After a unique 17-year career on the Crazy Horse Paris stage, Patricia Folly, aka Psykko Tico, is still here, passing on her passion and talent as Assistant Director. Crazy Horse Paris’ Svetlana Konstantinova arrived from Russia at a very young age with a dream. Today she is the stage and production manager of this internationally renowned cabaret. They are sources of inspiration for me, both as a dancer and as a woman.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve done in your life?
It must have been leaving for New York at the age of 18 with only $600 in my pocket. I was on my own, but determined to make my dreams come true. I had to adapt, do odd jobs like baby sitting and dog walking, but in the end, all these risks and sacrifices enabled me to achieve my goals.
What is your favorite act of the show?
I love Rougir De Désir and Good Girl. They’re two completely opposite acts in terms of lighting, energy and even stage presence, but I find them fascinating. It’s my dream to be able to perform them one day.
Photos : Paul-Henri Pesquet, Rémi Desclaux
