If it were not for dance Craig Hall’s career of choice would still involve some sort of performing.  The self-proclaimed exhibitionist loves to be in the spotlight.

“I love the lights, the dressing room, just the whole production,” Hall said of being part of the New York City Ballet Company. “Every night is different. Every night I get to be someone else, and I love it.”

Hall started at Stairway of the Stars as a youngster and in an effort to take his dancing to the next level he commuted from suburban Maywood to attend the Chicago Academy of the Arts.

“At first my mother was hesitant to let me go to the Academy because I had to commute into the city,” Hall said of his high school days. “Before the Academy I was an average student, my grades were very average, but after I enrolled my grades got better, I was happier, and she started to think maybe letting me go wasn’t such a bad idea.”

Although the students and staff at the Academy became a second family to Hall, he stressed the importance of remembering one’s roots.

“Its important to know where you come from. Without Stairway of the Stars I wouldn’t be here now. It was the outlet I needed,” Hall said.

Hall encourages aspiring dancers to never give up despite any negative feedback they may receive.

“It can get discouraging. Someone may not pick you because you’re not the right height, the right size, or whatever, but never give up on your dream,” he said. 

Learning he could make a career out of his favorite activity and get paid to do it was the best thing about dancing for Hall.

“I would have done it for free!” he said.

However, having such a strenuous activity as a daily job takes it toll on the body. Hall said it’s a challenge to avoid injuries and to stay healthy. Already having had surgery on his foot, Hall said dancers are prone to knee and back problems.

Hall moved to New York City right after high school in the fall of 1997.  He cautions other teens on moving there “too soon”.

“Kids should go to high school, go to prom, do normal high school things. Don’t try to grow up too fast. Do things at home. I wish I would have cherished my childhood more,” Hall said. When parents ask him if their 15-year-old and 16-year-old children should give New York a try, he says, “No. Experience childhood at home, then come.”

Competition is very stiff in New York because everyone is the cream of the crop, Hall said.  Dancers have to work hard at their craft and find ways to stand out and be noticed.

“I was so used to being the best and being one of the few guys in a class,” Hall said, “But in New York I was taking classes with all guys and everyone was the best.”

Hall said his experience at Stairway groomed him and paved the way for all the things he’s accomplished as a dancer.

“A lot of kids don’t have this opportunity. I’ve been blessed and lucky.”