Why You Should Know Comp King Luke Barrett

Luke Barrett’s been a standout on the comp scene for years now, thanks to his crystal-clear technique and soulful improv skills. He’s a two-time New York City Dance Alliance National Male Outstanding Dancer (Mini in 2016 and Junior in 2018), 2nd runner-up at The Dance Awards (2017), and Beat Squad member (2018). Luke hasn’t let negative comments and bullying at school weaken his passion for dance: “Support from my family and my dance friends has made me stronger in pursuing what I love,” he says.

“Work your hardest and persevere through the good and the bad. If something’s bringing you down, just move past it.”

Fast Facts

Age:
13

Birthday:
March 23, 2006

Hometown:
Mountain View, CA

Trains at:
Dance Attack in Los Gatos, CA

Nickname:
Scooby

Favorite dancers of all time:
Travis Wall and Lex Ishimoto

Most-played music:
“Anything by Billie Eilish”

Three words to describe his dancing:
“Powerful, swift, graceful”

Something no one knows about him:
“I’m really into architecture, because I love art and math. The designs of giant buildings are so interesting to me.”

A version of this story appeared in the April 2019 issue of
Dance Spirit with the title “You Should Know: Luke Barrett.”