Charli DAmelio Says ‘DWTS’ Partner Mark Ballas Gave Her Broadway Tips (Exclusive) [Video]

Charli D’Amelio is officially a Broadway star, but the 20-year-old performer isn’t losing touch with the people and experiences who helped pave her path to success, especially when it comes to her Dancing with the Stars partner, Mark Ballas.

Shortly before D’Amelio’s on-stage debut in & Juliet on Tuesday, Oct. 29, the social media sensation spoke to PEOPLE about her theatrical career move and reflected on how far she’s come since 2019 when she first started posting and garnering a following of millions on TikTok.

In 2022, the Connecticut native teamed up with Ballas to compete on — and ultimately win — the 31st season of DWTS, and D’Amelio says they formed a genuine bond that outlasted the series finale. She’s even tapped into his mentorship while preparing for her ensemble role as Charmion in & Juliet.

“Mark being my partner on Dancing with the Starshelped me learn so much about myself, and …