Name: Alena Capra
Years with MDC: 2001-03
First MDC audition:
I attended my first MDC audition with a friend, and former college dance team teammate (University of Miami Sunsations). She told me she was trying out and asked if I wanted to as well. I said I would go if I found the right leotard! Needless to say I did, and we both made the team! I think I was one of the last few numbers called and I remember sitting there thinking about how many spots were left. It was an awesome moment when I heard my name. I almost didn’t believe they were calling my name!
Most memorable “on field” MDC experience:
My rookie year was the year of September 11th. They cancelled all NFL games that weekend. I still have the ticket for the game that was never played. The very next game played after football resumed was a major tribute to the USA. I had chills being on the field as they sang the National Anthem and the ENTIRE stadium held up American flags. It was incredible. I remember we cheered with red, white, and blue poms, and did a special patriotic themed half time show. It felt wonderful to be part of such an uplifting performance. I will never forget it.
Most memorable “off field” MDC experience:
Traveling to Monaco to perform at the Laureus World Sports Awards was amazing. I had just made the team a few weeks earlier and suddenly I was expediting a passport, and then on a plane going to Monaco to perform at an international sports awards show! It was amazing that my very first performance as an MDC was in France and nationally televised!
Most valuable lesson learned as a MDC:
I learned that giving back to the community can be such a wonderful and rewarding experience. During my time as an MDC I got the chance to be part of many charitable events, and I realized how important it is to give back to your community. Seeing the smile on others’ faces is the most wonderful reward! Long after I finished cheering I still volunteer, for organizations like Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale, and a committee member for A Prom to Remember.
Current occupation: Interior Designer, owner of Alena Capra Designs
Accomplishments:
I have my own interior design business, Alena Capra Designs (www.alenacapradesigns.com ) where I do residential and commercial interior design. One of my projects was recently featured on the cover of the November issue of South Florida Decor. A few months ago I got an opportunity to work on a new series for HGTV called “Weekends with Luis.” The host, Luis Bosch is a luxury homebuilder here in Miami. Luis helps weekend warrior homeowners transform rooms in their homes over the course of a weekend, right here in South Florida. A large part of my role as a designer is behind the scenes, assisting Luis with the designs. I’ve worked on four episodes for the series. Though, you will catch a glimpse of me on camera from time to time, I’m usually at work behind the scenes – painting, hanging curtains, accessorizing the room. The show debuts Sunday, November 20th at 11 am on HGTV.