Jennifer Leigh Drabik is a testament to the phrase "If you want it bad enough, you can make it happen through hard work and perseverance."

Jennifer began her dance training at Southern Dance Theatre in 1993 at the age of 14. Inspired by her instructors Penni Greenly, Elizabeth Gonzales, Lori Hayward, Julie Bravata and Gary Lewis, she decided to pursue a career as a professional dancer, quite an undertaking for a student just starting at age 14!

In order to attain her goal, Jennifer took classes at Southern Dance five days a week. She also attended Dreyfoos High School, beginning as a vocal major, then changing to a dance major. During her junior year, Jennifer furthered her studies with additional classes at Palm Beach Ballet Center, under the direction of Joan Miller.

Her diverse training in jazz, ballet, pointe, tap, lyrical, modern, partnering and hip-hop enable Jennifer to be accepted to prestigious summer programs including Chautauqua and Walnut Hill. At age 17 she was offered a full scholarship and an apprentice position with Gus Giordano.

Jennifer's extensive performance experience with the Dancer's Edge Company led her to competitions such as StarPower!, where she won Gold. She also earned an honorable mention at the "Arts & Letters" competition at the Harid Conservatory.

After graduation from Dreyfoos, Jennifer was offered a position with Greg Thomson Productions in a new show being developed in Atlantic City. However, she had her sights set on a career with the cruise industry, in particular with Royal Caribbean International. Royal Caribbean is known for its exciting choreography and technically challenging shows, something Jennifer was well prepared for by Southern Dance Theatre.

Jennifer sent a video tape to Royal Caribbean productions and one week later she was contacted by the casting director, who offered her a 6 month contract. At 18, Jennifer's dream was realized!

By age 23, Jennifer has toured all over the world, on Royal Caribbean's "Mariner of the Seas" and "Jewel of the Seas". She has performed as a featured dancer in such shows as "Turn the Beat Around", "Latin Groove" and "Now and Forever". These shows featured the music & dance from Broadway productions "The Producers", "Contact", "Fosse", "Dream Girls", "Momma Mia", "Close to You" and "City Of Dreams" (featured dancer). Jennifer was also selected to perform a ballet in "mid-air", ala Cirque due Soleil!

Jennifer was promoted to Dance Captain & Company Manager with Royal Caribbean. She has since accepted an offer with the company in Casting & Choreography.

You can check photos from Royal Caribbean by visiting their productions website.

Congratulations, Jennifer!