Lisa Scott-Lee a singer with British pop group Steps and Founder and Principal at Dubai Performing Arts Academy. What brought you to Dubai?
What brought you to Dubai?
We fell in love with Dubai after holidaying here in 2000 and bought our house on The Palm soon afterwards. We excitedly awaited years for the project to be completed and were amazed by what has been achieved since we first arrived and how the city is continuing to grow and develop. It's incredible.
How long have you been here?
We moved here in the beginning of 2011 with our two children - Jaden and Star Lily. We love living in Dubai, it's home, thanks to the family friendly outdoor lifestyle and the good friends we have made. The children are settled here and although we miss our families, we regularly have guests come to stay and so it's nice to have quality time with them all, which helps to bridge the gap.
How did you get into this profession?
I started dancing and performing from the young age of 4, and made my stage debut at 6 years old. From that day on, I knew that all I wanted to do was to be on the stage, perform and make people smile. After years of training, I went on to study at the prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Performing Arts in London, where I gained my teaching qualifications. Soon after, I auditioned and became a member of the British pop group Steps. We went on to sell 20 million records worldwide. We are still great friends and enjoy touring to this day.
Best things about your job?
The best thing about my job is being able to do what I love most: performing, travelling and meeting people. I also met my husband Johnny through Steps as he was one of our original dancers back in the day. Johnny also danced for the likes of Robbie Williams and Diana Ross and has starred in London's West End. It is wonderful for us to be able to pass on our knowledge and experience to our students at DPA.
Worst things about your job?
I can't complain - I love what I do! Although, it is hard trying to juggle touring with Steps with my family life at times. Fortunately our children are Steps fans and like to come on the road with us and watch us perform. I guess it's in the blood!
Stand out moment in Dubai?
Our stand out moment in Dubai is recently opening Dubai Performing Arts Academy with my husband Johnny, after years of us dreaming about it. For us, we are grateful to continue to have successful careers in the entertainment industry and it is lovely to be able to give something back to the Arts and the youth of Dubai. At DPA, we are not only about learning how to sing, dance and act but we also work to build confidence and fitness levels, which benefit and stay with us for life.
Advice to anyone thinking of entering your profession?
Train, learn your craft, work hard and develop a thick skin! Most of all, keep smiling!
Describe a typical day?
As a pop star and entertainer, there is no such thing as a typical day, which is what I love most about my job. Every day varies and can include photo shoots, interviews, going to events and lots of travel. We were lucky enough to tour the world with Steps, and we would often not know which county we were waking up in. I remember going on stage once in Japan and my bandmate H saying 'Hello Taiwan'! These days, my day always starts and ends with cuddles from our lovely children.
What is your motto?
Learn from yesterday, live for today, dream of tomorrow.