Episode Summary: Lucas McFarlane, a seasoned dance professional, shares his journey from Calgary to becoming a prominent figure in London's dance scene. Lucas discusses his early training in Calgary, his move to London at 18 without connections, and his rapid ascent, including winning a “Got to Dance” - a TV show that propelled him to fame in the UK. The conversation highlights the unique opportunities and challenges within the London dance market, contrasting it with other major cities like Los Angeles. He also touches on the complexities of navigating agency relationships in London, where multiple agency representations are permitted, unlike in the US. Additionally, Lucas and Menina discuss the critical role of work ethic, the benefits of shadowing industry professionals, and the necessity for dancers to vocalize their aspirations. They address practical aspects such as obtaining work visas. The episode is rich with advice for young dancers, emphasizing the need to embrace individuality and the importance of patience and long-term thinking in building a sustainable career. This installment of the Business of Dance podcast offers valuable insights for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of a dance career, particularly in the vibrant and competitive London dance industry. Show Notes: (0:03) Dance career development with industry expert. (2:16) Lucas´s unconventional dance career path from Calgary to London, UK. (9:27) Benefits of living and working as a dancer in London, insights on the industry, competition, and job opportunities. (15:33) The value of assisting and shadowing in the entertainment industry. (17:50) Dance industry standards and highlights of speaker's career. (22:29) Patience and longevity in the entertainment industry. (26:47) Enjoying the dance journey, not just the destination. (29:03) Dance careers, advice from industry professionals. (34:28) Dance careers, challenges, and opportunities. (39:59) Qualities desired in dancers for TV performances (43:08) Challenges faced by male dancers in an industry dominated by females. (48:42) Overcoming dance injuries and finding opportunities for teens in London. (53:38) Dance career advice from industry professionals. Biography: Lukas McFarlane is a Creative/Choreographer from Canada. His career was skyrocketed when he was crowned the UK and Ireland’s best dance act, winning Sky1’s hit TV show, ‘Got to Dance’ at just 19 years old. Even prior to this he had worked with such artists such as Carly Rae Jepson, Taylor Swift and Celine Dion early on in his career. Lukas’s passion however, always lied in creation and he is now a well-known and widely respected Creative/Choreographer. He works consistently in tv and film on projects like 'The X Factor', ITV’s 'The Voice’ and Netflix’s new show ‘Dance Monsters’, and most recently worked closely with actress Julia Garner on the new Paramount film “Apartment 7A” Lukas has also choreographed for Strictly Come Dancing. He has worked with global brands such as GAP, LYNK&CO and UNIQLO and for international artists such as James Arthur, Pink, Vance Joy and Rita Ora. He worked on So You Think You Can Dance in 4 countries including the USA and is also well versed in creating live shows to audiences of more than 60 thousand at events like 'British Summer Time Hyde Park', 'Eurovision Song Contest', and The Queens Platinum Jubilee Celebration. Lukas has also created for The West End as associate choreographer on the Sadler’s Wells and Universal Group production ‘Message In A Bottle’ which he also starred in. He regularly shares his passion for teaching all over the world having taught in 5 of the 6 continents and is Founder and Creative Director of London based dance company UnTitled Dance Company who have performed their work to sold out audiences internationally. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/lukas_mcfarl