Josh Feldman’s career path took an interesting turn, leading him from the dynamic world of professional dance to the competitive realm of advertising. While he’s found success in the latter, his memories of dancing, especially alongside John Travolta, remain a career highlight. His journey began with competitive dance, a path somewhat expected at his training studio, Performing Dance Arts.
“The studio that I was trained at, Performing Dance Arts, is a competitive and recreational studio,” Feldman explained. His involvement in their competitive program, under the guidance of Danny and Lisa Poland and Debbie Noce, laid the foundation for his early career. Transitioning into professional dance felt like a natural progression, something he embraced and wanted to pursue further.
One pivotal moment in his dance career was landing a role in the major motion picture “Hairspray.” Interestingly, this opportunity arose when Feldman was transitioning away from dance, during his final year of university. Despite shifting gears academically, the allure of “Hairspray” was undeniable. “I knew, though, that this would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a dancer,” he recalled. Driven by this instinct, he contacted a casting agent and successfully auditioned, securing a role in the film.
Reflecting on his time as a professional dancer, Feldman highlights both the exhilarating highs and the grounding realities. “The best part of being a professional dancer is the people you get to work with, the places you get to go, and the fact that you get to live your life doing something you love,” he stated. The inherent joy of movement as a profession was a significant draw. However, the profession wasn’t without its challenges. “I would say the worst part of being a professional dancer is fighting for being treated correctly and having to wait for paychecks,” Feldman admitted, pointing to the less glamorous aspects of the industry.
Despite his passion for dance, Feldman’s path diverged towards the advertising world. Initially, he had planned to move to Los Angeles to further his dance career after high school. However, his parents encouraged him to consider higher education. An unexpected encounter at a university fair introduced him to the York Sheridan Program in Design, an Honors BFA program that piqued his interest. After a rigorous application process, including essays, portfolio reviews, and interviews, he was awarded a scholarship. This opportunity proved to be a turning point, leading him away from professional dance.
Later, just before graduating, another significant opportunity arose – a job offer in New York City with a rapidly growing company. This further solidified his transition from dance to advertising. Now immersed in the advertising industry, Feldman appreciates the creative and innovative nature of the work. “I love advertising. I enjoy being creative, innovating, and constantly expanding my knowledge and skill,” he shared. He acknowledges the industry’s challenges, particularly its fast-paced and competitive environment, but embraces the dynamism it offers.
Even with his successful advertising career, the pull of dance remains. “I miss it everyday,” Feldman confessed. Surrounded by friends still active in the dance world, the memories and passion persist. While his current schedule leaves little spare time, he occasionally returns to the dance studio, taking classes with friends, a testament to his enduring connection to his dance roots and those memorable moments, perhaps even those dancing near John Travolta on the set of Hairspray.
