Q&A Profile of Lisa Nunziella-Hockley

In the world of Hustle, Lisa Nunziella is an enduring name. From her beginnings in Brooklyn to competing in and winning Star Search, and garnering Championships with every partner she has had, Lisa Nunziella has built a rich career. Known for her steadfast work ethic, her undeniable star quality and Champion sportsmanship; Lisa Nunziella is Hustle royalty.

Ask some of the true school Hustle pioneers and dance Professionals about Lisa;

“Lisa Nunziella continues to make an incredible impact on the dance world. This petite, 5 foot dynamo, literally conquered the Hustle world. Lisa competed and performed all over the world, winning virtually every title with various partners before moving on to Hollywood. Her achievements have created a template for future generations. Lisa doesn’t just dance with her body but with her entire being. She has been a wonderful role model for fellow dancers. Her commitment to dance still reigns supreme today. Lisa has been a true inspiration to us all”
Ron Bess, DanceTalk ®

“Lisa Nunziella deserves every award she has ever won and more; in fact, at this year’s IHSC International Hustle & Salsa 2008 (May 1-4), Lisa is being awarded one of the most prestigious awards in Dance, The Augie & Margo award. One of the criteria for the award, established in 2000, is that the candidate must be a role model for the larger Dance community, and Lisa is an incredible role model. How many Hustle dancers, or any dancer for that matter do you know that has the staying power to win Championships with every partner they have ever had?. She’s a true Champion, her dominant presence, her work ethic and her positive attitude, no one can beat that, only Lisa has done it.”
Billy Fajardo, International Hustle & Salsa Competion and IHDA President

“Partnering with Lisa Nunziella is a wonderful experience, she brings the best out of me and I am constantly learning something new. In working with and observing Lisa, I admire how she is able to work with any individual. She has a real feel for the Hustle dancers and the Hustle community. She takes dancing to the next level.”
Billy Marti, Professional Dancer and Instructor, Current Partner to Lisa

Here’s the Q&A:

Q - Lisa, when you dance you really start to flow, what inspires you when you are dancing?

A - First of all the music inspires me! The person that I am dancing with inspires me. When I am dancing, I feel alive!

Q - How has the Hustle experience evolved from it’s original days?

A - I have to say, it was very exciting! Back then it was still evolving into what it is today; when we were all living and breathing this dance, it was quite competitive and all consuming. I loved every minute of it!

Q - As a pioneer in the dance, how would you like to see current Hustle dancing improve?

A - I see many people execute most steps correctly. I would love to see more people dance this dance, feel this dance, allowing their bodies to move by working from their center and using their hips more. There is a feeling in this dance that is like no other. I would love to see more people get out of their heads, not anticipate the next move and just feel the dance. It does feel rather amazing when you connect with your partner and just let yourself go! Of course always working from your center, this is where your balance, strength and most movements initiate from.

Q - Do you think it would be positive for Hustle to be in the mainstream such as Ballroom?

A - I believe it was there at one time. Hopefully we will see it gain popularity again. We all need to work together to make that happen.

Q - As a past World Champion, who are some of your favorite young Hustle dancers you love to watch?

A - Raul and Sergia are hot and sassy, Kelvin and Loriann have a beautiful, classic style, Wajih and Wendy are adorable. They all bring something new and fresh to the dance, each having their own distinct style.

Q - What sign are you?

A - Cancer, I am a July baby

Q - Thank you Lisa, will you be appearing at any festivals or dance competitions upcoming?

A - Yes, I’ll be at IHSC, International Hustle and Salsa Competition, I’ll be teaching in the Salsa Workshops.

Q - Thanks Lisa, we’ll see you there!
[Editor's Note: Lisa Nunziella-Hockley will be awarded the prestigious Augie & Margo award at IHSC, May1-4, 2008]

Here’s the beautiful and classy Lisa Nunziella dancing with John Merisier at Hooray for Hollywood Dance Festival, February 2008:

Here is another clip of Lisa being led again by John Merisier and at the end by Louis Orlando at Hooray for Hollywood Dance Festival February 2008:

Read Lisa’s Bio and see wonderful Legacy and current pictures on her Bio Pages.