Kristin Butke was born in Akron, Ohio on December 5, 1976. She began dancing at the age of 4 and she received her dance training at Tim O'Hare School. Learn more about Kristin, in her own words, below:

 

Were you required to audition for Lord Of The Dance?

Not really. I was invited to join LOTD but I did do a 3 day rehearsal/audition with Troupe 1.

What were the auditions like?

I was very nervous because everyone was watching and I didn't want to mess up.

Was there ever a time that you felt like you didn't want to dance or that you wanted to do anything else instead?

A couple of times I think about school and the Air Force because this May I would have graduated and become an officer in the Air Force. But I wouldn't go back and change anything. I would'nt give up LOTD for anything.

On opening night were you nervous?

No. I really didn't have an opening night. I started with Troupe 1 on it's last United States tour. Then I went to Troupe 2. That opening night was very exciting. Troupe 3 opening night was a bit nervous because Flatley was in Vegas watching.

What do you think of the Las Vegas life?

Very different than anything I've ever experienced. Fast pace, bright lights, I love it!

Is it what you expected?

Yes and even more!

What is the best part of living in Las Vegas?

Everything is open 24 hours.

What is the worst?

Losing $ when I gamble and TRAFFIC!

On your days off, do you ever get to go out and see the sights?

Most definitely. I've been to almost all of the hotels on the strip and I've seen lots of other shows.

Do you have a particular favorite number in Lord of The Dance?

Yes-FIERY NIGHTS.

Do you have a particular person in your life that has made a great impact or has inspired you the most?

My dance teacher has had a great impact on my life. He not only taught me everything about dancing, but he taught how to be a "good sport", etiquttes if dining and going out, how to be a good listener and leader, how to love dancing so much and have a passion so deep that it becomes unstoppable.

Did you ever dream that Irish dance would be as popular as it is now?

No!

Do you have thoughts about what you would like to do after Lord of The Dance?

Nothing definite. I want to go back to school, I want to teach dancing and I want to try acting. I'm undecided right now.

What do you do to relax? Hobbies, etc.

I listen to music like Enya or watch a movie. Sometimes I look at the stars and think about what my friends at home are doing.

Besides friends and family, what do you miss the most, being away from home?

My little dancers. I teach when I go home and they really look up to me. I miss being there for them, coaching, curling hair, being an inspiration.

Turn the tables...is there something you would like to ask your fans, or tell them?

The show is really fun and a lot of hard work. I've found that if I do my best I feel great. I love making an audience stand.

Is there anything you would like to add about yourself, your feelings, any information you would like your fans to know about you?

I like Volleyball. I used to play for college - My favorite movie is Top Gun. It reminds me of my dream of being a pilot and all my Air Force friends. - My favorite place is Hawaii. -I'd like to thank my Parents, brother and sister for thier time, patience, money, accordian playing, and the hardest dance workouts ever! Thanks a million Family!

Besides the constant travel, is there a major difference in being with the Vegas troupe rather than the original Troupe 1 or 2?

No major difference. We are comfortable with our stage and theater because it's the same everyday. We don't have to adjust to different venues. Two days off every week is nice too. (she added a little smiley face after this answer. =)

Do you have a preference between traveling and being stationary in one City?

I kind of like them both. I enjoyed going to all of the different places because I saw some great sites. I also like Vegas. No busses, no early travelling, no heavy suitcases. I guess I prefer staying stationary.

Do you get involved in community work here?

No. I do go to church and going to UNLV now.

If you could change someting in LOTD what would it be and how would you change it?

I would change the Celtic Dreams costumes because they aren't very durable and I would love to have the new Siamsa from Feet of Flames.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

In 10 years I hope to be very successful in whatever career I choose and hopefully a family of my own.

 

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