PAULA ABDUL grew up in North Hollywood where at the age of 7 began performing in community theater groups. She spent her summers touring in United Stated theatrical productions. At the age of 10 she began studying jazz and tap techniques to win a scholarship to study under Joe Traime at the Bell Lewitzky Company. In the early 1980's Paula defeated hundreds of other hopefuls to cheer for the L.A. Lakers where her unique dance style earned her the position of head choreographer. She quickly bolts into the pop scene where she choreographs music videos for Janet Jackson. She is widely recognized and awarded for her work in front of the camera as well as behind the scenes. At the present time she is a judge on the hit music reality series American Idol.