Meet Dustin Ripkens from Germany who moved to LA eight years ago to pursue a career in dance.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I lived in Essex from 2009-2012 to train at a performing arts college called Performers College. I loved dancing at such a high level and it really motivated me to dream big as an artist. I knew the only place I can grow even further as a dancer is in Los Angeles. Thus, in 2013 I made the leap and moved out here with only two bits of luggage and one contact …..and I haven’t looked back since. I have been blessed to be able to work as a dancer, choreographer and casting director but even more importantly, I have met some of the most amazing people in LA that I now can call friends.
What do you miss most from home?
No doubt, I miss my family in Germany and my dancer friends from London and I do must admit, I miss Robinsons fruit squash. 😉
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
The dance scene in Los Angeles can be very intimidating, highly competitive and very cutthroat. I wasn’t sure if I would make it. Eight years into it and many jobs later, it definitely gets easier because now I know more people, I learned how to successfully audition and I realized the dance scene is much smaller than it seems. Saying that, I don’t want to undermine the fact that the LA dance scene is still highly competitive. Time, a clear vision and a strong support system helped me to change my perspective on it. Right now, I’d much rather focus on perfecting my craft, building connections and enjoying the journey instead of worrying about things that are out of my control.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus in Germany?
I love the endless possibilities that LA has to offer. As a versatile dancer, I am able to work in TV and movies, I can be a concert and company dancer or do musical theater. Such a broad spectrum of work opportunities is very rare to find in other cities. Besides dance, I absolutely love the vast variety of people who live in Los Angeles. I am a person who is curious about people who are different from me, seeing the way they like to live and most importantly learning more about their values.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
This is not a hidden gem, but I love going to Long Beach beaches because they might not be the most beautiful beaches in the area but therefore not as busy. Long Beach has been my zen place during the pandemic.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
It may sound a little typical but if you really want it you will make it happen in LA as long as you are willing to work hard and do whatever it takes to make whatever your dream is come true. The possibilities are out here. Trust in yourself, be yourself and go for it.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
I didn’t like this saying for a very long time but it is true, at least in my case: “Timing is everything.”
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
My Instagram is: @dustin.ripkens and @rippedwithripkens
YouTube: Ripped with Ripkens
