Artist with Carlsbad Roots Blossoming

By Michele Robertson

Zachary Venegas, a Carlsbad local, recently performed in a music video with Lady Gaga on her newest single, Abracadabra. It is the third single off of her upcoming Mayhem album, which will be released on March 7. The video, released on February 2, has had over 25 million views on YouTube at the time of this writing.

Venegas graduated from Carlsbad High School and studied dance at Cheryl’s School of Dance. He has spent 17 years dancing, and his hard work and dedication to dance have led him to a blossoming career. Working in Los Angeles as a choreographer and dancer, Venegas has followed his dreams and passions and is making a mark in the dance industry.

“I can remember watching music videos on MTV when I was young and television shows like So You Think You Can Dance and really loving what I was seeing. It was my introduction to what dance was and what made me initially interested in it,” Venegas said.

“Dancing gives me the chance to be all of who I am. I can learn so much about my capabilities through dance. It brings me a sense of purpose and fulfillment,” Venegas shared. “Dancing is like second nature to me, so I do dance every day, whether it’s intense training or simply jamming at home. It’s something I have to do and want to always practice at to get better and just enjoy,” he added.

Venegas said, “When I got confirmation that I was going to be in the video, I just started to cry. I couldn’t believe it. It’s something that I have always dreamed of, especially because Lady Gaga has always been such a special artist to me. I remembered how hard I’ve worked for an opportunity like this. I also just felt so much relief to know that I am doing what I’m meant to.”

Erin Bentley Aragon, his history teacher from sophomore year in high school and one of his biggest fans, said, “He has worked hard his whole life for this and deserves all the success; I’m so proud of him!”

“Working on a music video set is always something really thrilling. There are a lot of moving parts, from setting up the set, lighting, costumes, and makeup to coordinating each scene for the camera. It’s a rush. You are focused on every step and making sure that everything goes correctly. You also are prepared to be very exhausted because you shoot every scene multiple times to ensure you got the best shot. It’s always so fulfilling by the end to know you and everyone on set worked their hardest to make all the magic happen,” Venegas said.

Venegas may work in L.A. with famous stars, but he remembers his roots, as he was recently a guest artist at Cheryl’s School of Dance for their intensive team, showing young dancers that dreams can become reality through hard work and self-confidence. The Cheryl’s School of Dance Intensive Team Program brings opportunities for its dancers by offering more exposure to the dance world.

“To any aspiring dancers, I encourage you to never stop. I also challenge you to think and dream bigger than you ever have. If you really love it, it can really take you further than you ever imagined. Coming from Carlsbad, I never knew dance would be the reason I would end up traveling the world to over 25 countries or being in a Lady Gaga music video. It was because I never stopped working hard and believing in myself so much that made it all possible. I also have had so much support and generosity shared with me by very important people, teachers, and mentors in my life that I owe so much to. So, when someone believes in you and sees your greatness or potential, believe them!”

Many exciting opportunities are coming up for Venegas, but he said they must be kept a secret for now.