The Daily Herald's "Out and About" placed bright-eyed Lori Marie Peterson, one of the dancers of the Voodoo Dancers group, in the hot seat. Lori, who has been dancing with the group since 2007, is enjoying her life as a full-time dancer here on the island.

Tell us about your background and how you started dancing.

I was born in Jamaica but consider myself a proud Sint Maartener, because I have lived here all my life. I started dancing back in high school in various groups for competitions and shows and continued to do so even after I had graduated. Although I had no professional training, I stayed dedicated to dancing. This drive led me to be discovered and taken under the instruction of Voodoo Dancers founder Paula Doño.

How would you describe Paula Doño and the other Voodoo dancers?

I would describe Paula as a strong group leader with a clear vision and great dedication to the group and everything dance related. She plays the role of manager, choreographer and costume designer. Paula is most definitely an essential to the group. Working with the other members of the group is a pleasure for me.

What is it like being a member of Voodoo Dancers? What type of shows do you perform?

Rehearsals are intense, but the payoff is definitely worth it. In my three years with the group, I was able to go abroad to places like St. Barths and even dance for Wycleff Jean during his concert last year. I have done more than 300 shows with the group around the island including the Heineken's Premium Light Launch, many of Elektra's events, V-energy drink launch with Elephant Man, Mega Yacht parties, Bob Sinclair and the Russian New Year at Radisson. I just really enjoy the variety and freshness the group brings to each performance.

What style dances do you do?

We do a mix of dance styles including flamenco, salsa, Japanese fan dance, Samba, dancehall, merengue, country western dance, tango, belly dance and hip hop. We (the voodoo dancers) are willing to do anything new and are always open to gaining new members – persons who are passionate, driven, have special talents and are willing to learn new dance styles.

What are your thoughts about the entertainment industry, dancing and the island?

I believe the general public should put more effort and investment into entertainment on the island. The island has so many local talents that I think these talents should be used to make Sint Maarten the entertainment hub of the north eastern Caribbean. The general public must also start to realize that dancing can be a full time job on Sint Maarten.

Persons interested in joining the group can call Lori at 522-4438 or Paula at 524-1214 or visit the website: www.voodoodancers.com