**Asiel Hardison** @asilove Hometown: Chicago **Tell us a bit about your dance history** I started studying African dance in Chicago. I then somehow found myself in ballet, jazz, tap and salsa classes as well as acting in Chicago theatre plays. While in high school, I had proper theatre training as a drama major but fell completely in love with the gift of dance. I then decided to give all my attention and time to dance. Instead of hanging out with friends, I spent my time in the dance studio and on stages all around Chicago. **How do you prepare to go on stage?** Believe it or not, even at this point in my career, I still get really nervous before every show! I like to calm and center myself before each show. I meditate by taking a few deep breaths or by playing music on my iPod that calms me and get me in the zone. I don't really do much talking unless I have to give the dancers some notes from Richy or Lady Gaga **What's your favorite part of traveling?** I love seeing how different and similar certain places are to the U.S. You can see the European influence on certain aspects of American architecture and also see how each country has a different culture. **What do you do on your day off?** If I’m not too tired, I try to roam around and explore where we are on tour by bike. I also love to find some good shopping and good eating! Ian and I also love to find a bungee ball to ride or an amusement park. I also sometimes do hot yoga to keep my muscles limber. **Favorite Gaga song** *laughs* "Captivated" **If I weren’t dancing, I would be...** Dancing! **Any special message for LittleMonsters?** I have been so inspired watching the monsters grow over the years. The monsters are family and I am so grateful to be a part of this journey with them. I feel like a proud uncle monster watching my nieces and nephews grow into awesome free human beings! It's an honor to use my gift to inspire such a vibrant group of people. We reciprocate great energy not only during shows but in life period. #AsiLove #MeetTheDancers #InsidetheartRAVE