Today we’d like to introduce you to Cara Lidberg.
Hi Cara, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I spent over fifteen years as a professional dancer. I danced for the Orlando Magic while in college, on cruise ships after that, and in Las Vegas for multiple shows, including Cirque du Soleil.
In 2014, I decided it was time to “hang up my shoes” and move back home to Orlando to be closer to my Mom (and also closer to the man I would eventually marry.) I started working a “real job,” then ended up becoming a stay-at-home mom after my husband and I had our first child. I never regretted leaving the dance world but always felt there was something “missing.” To satisfy that need, I decided to start a class for local, retired dancers.
We met once a month, until the pandemic hit, and then the feeling of missing my passion began to creep back up. Insert Instagram reels! Two of my former Orlando Magic teammates and I created a reel dancing to Mariah Carey– And it got over one million views!!! We have continued dancing on Instagram to show other mamas it’s okay, and awesome, to continue to enjoy your passions! My dream has always been to help people in some way, and even though I never expected it to be through Instagram or dancing, it makes sense now– And I’m so grateful for the outlet!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. I didn’t realize how many people will go out of their way to be mean (clearly, I’ve been sheltered, lol!) But it has been a growth process. Accepting the idea that the mean or hurtful things some people say has nothing to do with you, and everything to do with them, is a hard lesson to learn!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am most proud of the community of mamas I am growing! I hope to bring a sense of joy and a “you’ve got this” attitude to any Mom who may need to hear it. Even if she has never danced a day in her life, my goal is to be her biggest cheerleader!!!
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
How about two? I was first chair cello in my 8th-grade orchestra. I also turned into a tiger on stage, daily, in one of the shows I worked for in Vegas.
Contact Info:
- Email: caranicoles@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takingcaramamas/
