Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast

Sometimes you can get everything you want as a dancer, only to discover the reality is quite different from what you imagined it would be. In this episode, author and former dancer, Rym Kechacha, shares how that realization shaped her own journey, from early ballet training in London to dancing professionally with Northern Ballet, where touring life was both joyful and intensely demanding. She reflects on what it felt like to end her career as a dancer earlier than expected, and how that ending opened the door to a new creative identity. Rym traces her path into teaching, studying creative writing, and eventually publishing fiction, shaped by a lifelong love of books and fantasy. Our conversation explores her latest novel, The Apple and the Pearl, a ballet-inspired fantasy that captures both the beauty and cruelty of the stage world, blending realism with folkloric and fantastical elements. Thoughtful and candid about reinvention, artistry, and creative freedom, Rym offers her insights on what happens when one dream ends and another begins. Listen in for a rich discussion on dance, writing, and the stories that carry us forward! Key Points From This Episode: Rym's upbringing in London and her love of dance from a young age. How she persuaded her parents to let her attend ballet school at age 16. The demanding daily schedule of life at Central School of Ballet. Figuring out her plans after Ballet School and how her love of story ballets guided her. How she joined Northern Ballet and what it was like touring with the company. The serious impact of arts funding cuts and austerity measures in 2010. Losing her place at Northern Ballet: why it was both sad and liberating. What Rym did next in her career: travelling, au pairing, and becoming a teacher. How she rediscovered writing, earned her creative writing MA, and published her first novel.  Reflections on the challenges of publishing and how ballet prepares you for rejection. Her experience writing her latest book, The Apple and The Pearl, and how it relates to ballet. A closer look at her upcoming nove

So much of what validates the human experience is the ability to collaborate and connect with other people in the world, and today's guest has managed to do that through dance! Kitty McNamee joins us today to talk about her impressive career and how she found success despite limitations. Kitty was first drawn to the escapism element of musical movies and the wordless expression of dance, and although she started dancing late, she was accepted to Houston's performing arts high school. In this conversation, you'll hear all about how starting dance at the age of 16 made her even more passionate because she really had to fight for success. Kitty goes on to talk about how she started choreographing and touches on her choreographic voice and style before sharing the importance of community and relationships in this industry. Kitty even tells us about the projects she is most proud of and teases what we can look forward to seeing from her in the future. From dance films to documentaries to pop-up performances by LA artists, music videos with Laura Marling, and operas, Kitty's career is truly an amalgamation of different art forms and a testimony to the power of collaboration with other artists. This is an episode you don't want to miss! Key Points From This Episode: A brief introduction to today's guest, Kitty McNamee.  Where she's from and how she became interested in dance.  Kitty's experience at Houston's performing arts high school.  Her physical limitations and why she thought she should be an actress.   Choreographing for Open Fist and starting her own dance company.  Kitty describes her choreographic voice, movement themes, and influences.  How her career progressed and how community and relationships kept her going.  Her transition into working in dance films and how she got into that.  Kitty tells us about her latest documentary project, Citizen, and her involvement.  What LA POPS UP is and what inspired Kitty to create it.  Her work with Laura Marling and what it's been like to work in different kinds of spaces.  Kitty shares her favorite dance projects an

Dance is a beautiful medium to honor the past while building community in the present. Today, we are joined by Bhumi B Patel of Patel Dance Works to discuss her distinguished career. In this episode, you'll hear all about Bhumi's life, her creative interests, her college education at a women's liberal arts institution, her love for constant learning and education, and so much more! We delve into her MFA experience and working through injury before discussing her dissertation on how queer of color performance is informed by improvisational practice and the 'ghosts' of the past. She even tells us about getting her Ph.D. during COVID, what her research was about, and how she managed to finish it in just four years. Lastly, Bhumi tells us how she plans on expanding her dissertation work into a book and what else we can expect from her in the future. From her master's thesis encompassing the upheaval after World War Two, to her deep love for dance writing, Bhumi's talents, interests, and achievements are fascinating! This is a conversation you don't want to miss, so be sure to tune in now!  Key Points From This Episode: Introducing Bhumi Patel to the show.  How she became interested in dance, and why she chose a women's college.  What inspired Bhumi to pursue a career in dance during her undergrad.  Bhumi tells us about her master's thesis on Anna Sokolow's Rooms.  What kept drawing Bhumi back into an academic setting.  Bhumi's experience doing her MFA at Mills College and her focus on grief.  Her dissertation on how queer of color performance is informed by improvisation.  How she advocated for change through writing and starting her dance company.  Bhumi tells us about the content of her Ph.D. and her determination to finish it fast.  What she plans to do with her research and her plans for the future. For more on this podcast episode: Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast Connect with us on Facebook & Instag

If you want long-term success in the dance industry, you need to be very clear on why you're doing it and who it's for above anything else! In this conversation, you'll hear all about Winifred Haun's introduction to dance, how her craft has evolved over the years, some of the incredible dance practitioners she has learned from, how she decided she wanted to dance for her career, and what it was like to start her company, Winifred Haun and Dancers. We delve into the importance of balancing unique ideas with appealing entertainment for audiences before discussing how her company has evolved over the years and how Winifred continues to create work. Winifred goes on to remind us of the power and importance of collaboration in the dance space and shares why she loves mentoring people so much. We even hear about some of the incredible projects she's been part of, including her recurring Community Dancer Project, what making site-specific dance work is like, and what the future holds for her. To hear all this and some pearls of wisdom from this illustrious guest, be sure to tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: Welcoming Winifred Haun to this episode of the show. Winifred tells us about her dance history and how she became interested in dancing.  What it was like to balance being a dance apprentice and working other jobs.  Starting her own company, Winifred Haun and Dancers, and what her focus is.  How Winifred Haun and Dancers has grown over the years, and where they rehearse. The importance of collaboration and mentorship in the dance industry.  Winifred tells us about her Community Dancer Project and other projects she's done.   Our guest tells us what it's like to make dance pieces for specific spaces.  What the future holds for Winifred Haun and Dancers and some advice for young creators. More on this podcast: Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast More on Wini: Winifred Haun and Dancers Connect with Movers & Shapers on Facebook & <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/moversandshaperspodc

In this episode of Movers & Shapers, we welcome the founder of the Bang Group, David Parker, to talk about his incredible career and how his life and dancing are entwined. Tuning in, you'll hear all about David's life, how a film about the Golden Age of entertainment sparked his love for dance, the training he received, and so much more! David tells us all about his time in New York, his love for tap dancing, and what it was like to experience 'the Dance Boom'. We delve into his decision to start choreographing later in life and how his sexual awakening informed his work before discussing how he combined dancing and acting in his choreography. David goes on to tell us about how choreography became his passion and why he still sees the importance of being able to dance when he wants to, even in his 60s. We even talk about some of the challenges he's faced in his career and touch on some of the highlights of his career. Finally, our guest tells us what he is working on now. To hear all this, and so much more, be sure to press play now!  Key Points From This Episode: Where David's from and how he started dancing.  His time at Bard College and why he decided to leave.  David touches on his love for tap, in particular, and his rhythmic brain.  His experience of 'the Dance Boom' in New York.  Why David only started choreographing in his late 20s. Creating work that conveys meaning: acting through dance.  David tells us about the personal revelation he had about his sexuality.  Why it is very important for him to be able to dance as well as create.  Some of the trials and peak moments he's been through in his career.  What David is working on at the moment. For more on this Episode: Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast More on David Parker: The Bang Group Follow the podcast on Instagram & Facebook

A lifelong devotion to movement can shape not just an artist's career, but an entire community. Today, choreographer, educator, and Artistic Director Jessica Gaynor shares how her path began in gymnastics before finding her true calling in modern dance. From her early days studying with the legendary Alice Teirstein to becoming a mentor and leader in her own right, Jessica's story is one of passion, resilience, and creativity. In our conversation, Jessica reflects on the freedom and self-expression she discovered through improvisation, her formative years studying dance at Brown and CalArts, and the drive that led her to form her own company back in New York. She recalls milestone performances, collaborations with composers, and the challenges of sustaining a company while teaching full-time. Today, her work as Artistic Director of the Young Dancemakers Company continues to empower teens to create original work in partnership with professional composers, carrying forward the legacy of her mentor. Tune in to hear how Jessica has built a multifaceted career in dance, and why she remains committed to creating, teaching, and inspiring the next generation. Key Points From This Episode: Jessica's upbringing in NYC and her shift from gymnastics to ballet and modern dance. How she found mentorship with Alice Teirstein at the Fieldston School. Her love of dance as a form of freedom, self-expression, and community through movement. Early influences on her dance career: Pilobolus and Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company. Studying at Brown, while doing an academic major, repertory works, choreography, and more. Graduate training at CalArts, focusing on choreography, performance, and collaboration. What it was like returning to NYC and forming a company with fellow dancers. Creating evening-length works at Triskelion Arts and touring performances. Collaborative works with composers, exploring structure and form. Joining the Young Dancemakers Company (YDC) and becoming Artistic Director. Leading YDC through the pandemic with Zoom dance films and outdoor shows. Jessica's love of teaching

With a heavy heart, KDH Dance Company announced the passing of their fierce founder and dearest friend, Kathy Dunn Hamrick. Kathy has had an enormous impact, with ripples throughout Austin and beyond, as she is loved by so many.  The organization is heartbroken, but committed to honoring Kathy and her legacy for years to come. Read more in the KDH Dance Company newsletter. Today's podcast is a re-airing of an interview with Kathy from 2024. Kathy Dunn Hamrick was the Artistic Director of Kathy Dunn Hamrick Dance Company, an award-winning modern dance company based in Austin, Texas. Kathy happily committed her professional life to dancing, teaching, choreographing, presenting, mentoring, and advocating for modern dance and dancemakers. She created over 50 dances that have been described as "strikingly athletic and wonderfully expressive," "heavenly," "smart" and "masterly," and garnered numerous recognitions for the dance company, including Austin Critics Table awards for Best Choreographer, Best Dance Concert, Best Dancer, Best Duet, Best Lighting Design, and Best Ensemble. The company has performed throughout Texas as well as in New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, and Toronto, and her "Lake Dances" were featured in Arts + Culture Texas, Arts Journal, and Dance Magazine. Kathy had a BA in Modern Dance from The University of Texas and an MFA in Performance and Choreography from Florida State University. She taught at Florida State, Stephen F. Austin State University, St. Edwards University, The University of Texas, and Austin Community College. She taught modern dance for both recreational and professional dancers at Café Dance; provided professional development for educators; directed artist residencies for high schools and universities; and served as a mentor for Austin Emerging Arts Leaders. In 2015, Kathy founded Austin Dance Festival, an annual modern dance event that hosts professional dance showcases, master classes, and a Youth Edition that includes non-competitive showcases forteens 13-18, a Pro Chat Q&A, and a college fair. In 2018, Kathy was inducted into the Austin Arts Hall of Fame as "a model for the artist who approaches each project in a spirit of experimentation and reinvention." For more on this episode: Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook

From Iowa to Juilliard, from Israel to screens, Bobbi Jene Smith's Journey through dance is anything but ordinary and defies borders and expectations! In this episode, we are joined by internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and filmmaker Bobbi Jene Smith. Known for her deeply personal and raw approach to movement, Bobbi shares the milestones that shaped her path; from leaving home at the age of 11, to ultimately moving to Israel to join Batsheva Dance Company. Bobbi opens up about the challenges of living abroad and the profound ways in which her relationship with dance evolved through her time in Israel before reflecting on her decision to leave Batsheva and return to the US. We also hear about her transition to dance filmmaking, her current projects, and what it means to her to continuously practice and live through her craft. Finally, Bobbi leaves us with thoughtful reflections on identity, artistry, and her hopes for the future. Thanks for tuning in!  Key Points From This Episode: Welcoming today's guest, Bobbi Jene Smith.  Bobbi Jene tells us about her background in dance.  What the summer program at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School was like.  Moving away from home at the age of 11 and ending up at Juilliard.  How the Juilliard environment differed from Bobbi's previous studies.  Bobbi Jene walks us through the logistics of moving to Israel and what it felt like.  How Bobbi Jene reconnected with her love for dance.  The challenges that came with being in Israel for so long.  Bobbi Jene tells us about some of her favorite performances.   How she decided to leave Batsheva Dance Company and move back to the US. The importance of continuously practicing your craft.  How Bobbi Jene got into creating dance films and what she's working on now.  What Bobbi Jene's hopes and dreams are for the future. For more on Bobbi Jene with Show Notes & Links: The Moving Archi

Morgan Teel is the mind behind Dance Waterloo, an organization making dance more accessible through site specific and site responsive shows in Austin, Texas. During this episode, she joins us to share the story of how she first fell in love with dance, what deepened her knowledge of choreography, and the motivation behind launching Dance Waterloo. Morgan also shares what first drew her to site-specific work and how Austin audiences have embraced it, from intimate community performances to larger shows like Quixotic States at the Zilker Hillside Theatre Stage. We discuss her inventive projects, including a spelling bee themed dance production, and how she works to make the creative process as visible as the final product. Along the way, she reveals where she finds inspiration for her pieces and why accessibility, experimentation, and community connection remain at the heart of her vision for Dance Waterloo's future. Key Points From This Episode: Morgan Teel's introduction to the world of dance as a child. Applying for colleges and honing her skills as a choreographer.  What motivated Morgan to start Dance Waterloo: making dance more accessible. Naming Dance Waterloo, fundraising, and putting on their first show under an overpass. How dance classes for families allow children to see their parents as equal collaborators. The legacy Morgan hopes to build with Dance Waterloo. How she is working with Austin's senior population. The spelling bee dance production she recently put on.  Where she finds inspiration for her pieces.  How she is working to make the process of dance visible beyond the product of it.  Quixotic States: a dance show at the Zilker Hillside Theatre Stage.  Plans for the future: dancing with teenagers. How Morgan cross-pollinates her skills. For more on Morgan with Show Notes & Links: The Movin

Joining Erin on Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast today is Mickela Mallozzi. Mickela is a four-time Emmy® Award–winning host and executive producer of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi, a PBS and Amazon Prime travel series celebrating global dance traditions. A professional dancer and trained musician, she travels the world exploring how everyday people express their cultures through movement.  In today's conversation, Erin and Mickela delve into the origins of her dance journey, how a middle-of-the-night dream blossomed into her life project, Bare Feet, and she recounts the impact of growing up in an immigrant family on both herself and the TV show. Mickela unpacks how she worked hard to get her show off the ground, in the process starting a blog, and emphasizes the weight of storytelling in producing the episodes. She touches on what it's like going into different cultural settings, how she has overcome challenges throughout the year, and when she realized that Bare Feet was more than just a travel show! To hear more about Mickela's incredible journey, including how she navigated the ins and outs of the COVID-19 pandemic, and what hopes and dreams are coming into fruition in the near future, be sure not to miss out on another insightful episode. Thanks for listening! Key Points From This Episode: Mickela shares the origins of who she is and her dance journey. How she took a middle-of-the-night dream and made it an award-winning TV Show reality. She recounts growing up in an immigrant family with an amazing storytelling Nonnapina. Mickela talks about Bare Feet, the TV Show, and the features of immigrant families in NYC.  "The Plan" before Bare Feet came to be. Mickela shares how dance returned to her life. She tells the story of getting Bare Feet off the ground and ultimately starting her blog. The story of sneaking into a PBS conference and how it panned out. Mickela emphasizes the weight of storytelling on Bare Feet. The importance of working hard and intentionally pursuing what you're called to do. She talks about the hard juxtaposition of finding funding and support for the show. <p dir="ltr" role=

Some creative partnerships do more than grow over time; they help shape an entire artistic landscape. In this episode of The Movers and Shapers Podcast, we meet Sara Coffin and Susanne Chui, co-artistic directors of Mocean Dance, whose long shared history and collaborative vision have transformed contemporary dance in Nova Scotia. Sara begins by tracing her path from early choreography to training across Canada and the United States, and how returning home eventually led her into a leadership role with Mocean Dance. Susanne shares her parallel journey, from a childhood in community dance to professional training in Toronto and the decision to return to Halifax, where she built an independent career before joining the company. Together, they reflect on the evolution of Mocean Dance from a dancer-centered company to a community-focused hub for creation, training, and sector-wide collaboration. They discuss how their friendship, complementary strengths, and improvisational ethos shape their working relationship, and they offer a look at the ambitious interdisciplinary and land-based projects that will define their next chapter. Listen in for a thoughtful conversation about collaboration, place-based artistry, and what it takes to sustain a thriving dance ecosystem outside major centers. Key Points From This Episode: Sara's early pull toward dance and her first experiences in choreographing. Training across Canada and finding her voice through somatics and collaboration. Forming the SiNS (Sometimes in Nova Scotia) collective: building an early artistic community. Returning to Halifax and stepping into leadership at Mocean Dance. Completing her MFA at Smith College in the United States to deepen her artistic practice. Susanne's community-based dance beginnings and discovery of professional training. Moving to Toronto for conservatory study and early company work. Returning home to build an independent career supported by grants and local networks. Joining Mocean Dance and forming a co-artistic partnership with Sara. Learning the administrative demands of running a company. Shifting Mocean from dancer-centered work to community-focused

A dancer's career is often shorter than many others, and for the most part, there comes a time when the performer must pivot and find other ways to find value and joy in their craft. Joining us today is Danielle Guillermo, a former dancer turned dance consultant, as well as brand strategist and web designer. We begin with Danielle's background and how she got into the world of dance before learning how her home and school support structures gave her the confidence needed to excel in performance. Then, we examine how her career goals have evolved since high school, how being rejected from Juilliard was a blessing in disguise, her role at the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, and other early-career experiences, and everything that happened to instigate the second phase of her career. We also discover how Danielle began building websites, her journey as a brand strategist, why she chose the teaching route, and why it's possible (and healthy) for artists to have financial aspirations without compromising their art. To end, Danielle walks us through Dance News Daily — the news hub she built for the entire dance community — and we discover what she has planned for the near future as well as how to connect with her and her work. Key Points From This Episode: Danielle Guillermo describes who she is and how she got into the world of dance. What drew her to ballet, and a journey through her time at dance school. How her support structures gave her confidence that she previously had to fake. The goals she had when growing up in dance school and how they've evolved. Rejected from Juilliard: The ups and downs of her dancing education after high school. The start of her career and her experience at Dayton Contemporary Dance Company. Her European adventure, and everything that happened post-DCDC 2. How Danielle's performance career ended and why she chose to focus full-time on teaching. Breaking Glass: How she approached a career crossroads at the age of 31. How artists can also have aspirations of financial freedom without compromising their art. Danielle's website-building career and how it's transformed her and her client's lives. </p

Amber Sloan's life in dance has unfolded through curiosity, community, and constant reinvention. Growing up in Virginia, her early exposure to improvisation and composition in high school sparked not just a love of movement but a way of thinking that would shape her future. Her time at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign deepened that foundation and connected her with the people and places that helped her put down artistic roots. From piecing together income through unexpected jobs, to choreographing for the Joyce SoHo and seeking to scale her work in the years leading up to the pandemic, Amber has never shied away from the uncomfortable or the uncertain. She's navigated performance anxiety, surgery and recovery, and the challenge of being involved in many facets of the dance world, from performing with David Parker to presenting work through platforms like Women in Motion. Today, with recent pieces like her show at Kestrels (set to return next year), she continues to build a career that defies the assumptions people often make about a life in dance. At the heart of it all is a simple, lasting dream: to keep exploring alongside the dancers who move her work forward. Thanks for listening. Key Points From This Episode: Amber Sloan's upbringing in Virginia and her introduction to dance. How early experiences of improv and composition in high school shaped her career. Continuing her dance journey at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. How the connections she made while studying helped her develop roots in dance. Working various jobs to pay the bills, including a role for Harvey Keitel's wife. Choreographing for the Joyce SoHo. Making an effort to do her work in a bigger way pre-pandemic. Navigating performance anxiety and doing what is uncomfortable. Being involved in many different areas of dance. How a 2015 surgery and recovery impacted Amber's career. Dancing for David Parker: rehearsals, footwork, and more. Amber's presenting work, including Women in Motion and more. Recen

MSP 188: Attuning to the Beauty of Passion with Sara Veale The incredible beauty of passion lies in the relentless dedication of one's entire being, a force that radiates outward to inspire and elevate others. Today on the Movers & Shapers podcast, Erin is joined by author and dance critic Sara Veale. A North Carolina native, dancer turned dance writer, currently living in London, UK. Tune into the conversation as they dance into what inspired Sara into a lifelong journey in dance, how dance became an integral part of her identity, and what sparked her journey to shift into one that centers around her writing. They discuss her transition from the US to London, UK, the differences in the dance world, and she unpacks the responsibility of writing dance reviews and why she ultimately finds the Stars system to be fundamentally flawed. They then dive into an in-depth discussion on her book, Wild Grace: The Untamed Women of Modern Dance, breaking down what inspired the writing, how she approached the structure of the book, incorporating advice from her editor, delving deeply into the research, and the timeline from beginning to end. She shares how the book ultimately led her to a new attuning of the very beauty of passion itself! Be sure not to miss out on all this, and as always, much more. Thanks for listening, enjoy! Key Points From This Episode: Sara reveals how a two-year-old girl's fascination with movement blossomed into a lifelong journey in dance. Sara explains what about dance made it such an integral part of her identity. The journey of her writing career. Sara unpacks how she got into writing as a dance critic.  We discuss her transition from the US to London, UK, and how it shaped her dance writing. Finding her voice in the dance critic world. Why you've got to be reading when you want to be writing, according to Sara. The responsibility behind writing dance reviews.  She shares why she believes the idea of the Stars system, when writing reviews, is fundamentally flawed.  We delve into a discussion on her book, Wild Grace: The Untamed Women of Modern Dance. How she approached the structure of her book, finding the women, taking advice from her editor, and making tough decisions. Sara explains the research journey she undertook for her book and the women she writes about. "The coolest thing ever is to be good at something and be passionate about it and to throw your whole body and soul into it." — Sara Veale For more on Sara and Show Notes & Links: The Moving Architects F

The Curiosity That Moves Us with Ann Carlson At the heart of every great artistic work is the exploration of curiosity and a commitment to the process of creation. Today on Movers & Shapers, Ann Carlson joins us to discuss her illustrious career in interdisciplinary arts and shares the deep curiosity she possesses about movement, meaning, and the human experience, with work borrowing from the disciplines of dance and performance as well as visual, conceptual, and social art practices. In this conversation, Ann reflects on how she first discovered her love of dance, how working with Meredith Monk and exploring performance art shaped her creativity, and the thriving performance scenes in NYC in the 90s that opened doors for experimentation. She shares the inspiration behind her work with animals, the reality of supporting herself financially as an artist, and how she navigated motherhood and her dance career. She also dives into the delicate marriage between process and product in creation before discussing her dance project, The Symphonic Body. Finally, Ann reveals what is piquing her interest today and shares a glimpse of what the future will hold for her in her career. Thanks for listening!  Key Points From This Episode: A brief overview of today's guest, Ann Carlson, and how she found her love of dance.   How performance art and working with Meredith Monk inspired Ann's own creations.  Cross-connecting dance with other performance scenes during her time in NYC.  What inspired Ann's animal series and how she managed to support herself.  How Ann's dance career pivoted when she started a family. The beautiful amalgamation of process and product in dance creation. What Ann learned about art from the poet Allen Ginsberg.  Ann looks back on her career and some of the most meaningful projects she did.  Ann tells us what she is curious about today and what her next project will be. Ann is the recipient of numerous awards for her artistic work, including a Creative Capital Award, a Doris Duke Award for Performing Artists, a National Dance Project Award, two American Masters awards, a USA Artist Fellowship, a Guggenheim Fellowship, a New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship, a Fellowship from the Foundation for Contemporary Art, and more! For more on Ann and Show Notes & Links: The Moving Architects Follow the podcast on Instagram & Facebook

Welcome to a new season of Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast, hosted by Erin Carlisle Norton, choreographer and Artistic Director of The Moving Architects. In this update episode, Erin shares what she's been up to, including the company's site-specific project Where She Once Stood, which brought Montclair's Crane House & Historic YWCA to life through dance, history, and storytelling. This podcast is made possible this season by The Ohio State University Dance Department's Dance Preservation Grant and a generous anonymous donor. Special thanks to both for supporting the podcast and helping preserve and share dance stories with artists and audiences everywhere. Erin also previews the season ahead, featuring interviews with dancers, choreographers, and leaders shaping contemporary dance today. Tune in for stories, insights, and artistry that continue to inspire, guide, encourage, and connect the dance community. Movers & Shapers: Instagram & Facebook Learn more about The Moving Architects' recent dance project  "Where She Once Stood"  and preview "Where She Once Stood" on State of the Arts. Connect with the podcast and Erin! [email protected] or our Movers & Shapers Instagram.

Summer podcast announcement from host and Artistic Director of The Moving Architects Erin Carlisle Norton. Support this one-of-a-kind podcast with a tax-deductible donation! themovingarchitects.org/support Movers & Shapers is celebrating 10 years of podcasting! Connect with our archive of nearly 200 interivews: themovingarchitects.org/podcasts Follow us for the latest on Instagram and Facebook!

Lessons from 10 Years of Dance Conversations with Erin Carlisle Norton What does it take to lead a forward-thinking, boundary-pushing dance company in today's ever-changing artistic landscape? After a decade of hosting Movers & Shapers and nearly 200 interviews, Erin Carlisle Norton, Artistic Director of The Moving Architects (TMA), steps into the guest seat for a special 10th-anniversary episode. In conversation with Megan Mizanty, Lead Editor of thINKingDANCE, Erin reflects on the podcast's evolution, the inspiration behind it, and the guests and stories that have profoundly shaped her perspective. They explore the intersection of dance and community engagement, the role of adaptability and resilience in the arts, and how collaboration fuels creative growth. Erin also shares her dream interview guest, the unexpected insights and connections that have emerged from the podcast, and how these conversations have deepened her understanding of what it means to build a meaningful life in dance. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry, strategy, and vision that drive Movers & Shapers (and TMA) forward! Key Points From This Episode: ·       An introduction to Erin and the story behind Movers & Shapers. ·       Insight into how the podcast has evolved over the past decade. ·       Memorable moments and some of Erin's favorite guest interviews. ·       The biggest lessons Erin has learned from nearly 200 interviews. ·       Ways that the podcast has influenced Erin's work and artistic vision ·       The importance of adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience in the arts. ·       Exploring the intersection of dance, community engagement, and storytelling. ·       Reflections on recurring themes, shifting dance landscapes, and industry trends. ·       Unexpected connections and insights that have emerged from hosting the podcast. ·       Podcast hosts who have influenced Erin's approach to storytelling. ·       The modern dance icon Erin dreams of interviewing and why. ·       What it means to build a rich life in dance and Erin's advice for emerging artists. "Remembering that we're part of something bigger that has been going on for generations is very grounding and reassuring. No matter what the art form is, there's something about the legacy – that you can feel like you're a part of." — Erin Carlisle Norton E

Building the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company with Morgiana Celeste Varricchio & Samara Adell Every dance company has its own unique journey and characteristics, from how it was founded to the style of dance it specializes in. Today, we're joined by the Producing Artistic Director and Founder of the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company (MDTC), Morgiana Celeste Varricchio, and the Artistic Director for Dance and Choreographer, Samara Adell. MDTC showcases the vibrant dance and folkloric heritage of the Mediterranean, spanning North Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. Through captivating performances and educational initiatives, MDTC brings to life the region's music, myths, and traditions, preserving and sharing its cultural tapestry. In this conversation, Morgiana and Samara share how they discovered their affinity for Middle Eastern dance, why they felt it wasn't adequately represented in the US, and how they formed the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company. We discuss the many shows they've produced, including their special upcoming 20th-anniversary show, Visions of the Near East, how they manage their creative partnership, and the challenges of running a nonprofit. Tune in to hear the full scope of Morgiana and Samara's beautiful journey, from becoming friends to running a thriving company together! Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to Morgiana Celeste Varricchio and her dance journey. How she became involved with Middle Eastern dance and met Samara Adell. The success of Morgiana's production of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. How Morgiana and Samara founded the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company in 2005. Their mission to ensure Middle Eastern Dance was properly represented in the US. An overview of their productions, including their original show, Caravan to Cairo. Their upcoming production, Visions of the Near East Some background on Samara and how she became interested in dance. Her time working in New York and the extensive global touring she did as a dancer. The inner workings of Samara and Morgiana's creative partnership. How they prepare for, plan, rehearse, and arrange all the different elements of their shows. Standout experiences during their two decades with Mosaic. "We both agreed that Middle Eastern Dance was not represented properly in the professional world of dance. It is a very legitimate dance form, but not looked upon that [way] here in the US. It was our mission, then, to bring this dance to the public." — Morgiana Celeste Varricchio Morgiana Celeste Varricchio is the Producing Artistic Director and Founder of Mosaic Dance Theater Company. </

Twin Cities with Joanna Lees, Jesse Schmitz-Boyd, Erinn Liebhard Nestled along the Mississippi River, Minneapolis and Saint Paul offer a unique mix of natural beauty and culture. Winters are harsh, but skyways provide warmth, and frozen lakes set the scene. When summer arrives, the cities buzz with life, from thriving arts and food scenes to passionate sports fans. Each season brings a fresh energy to this dynamic and welcoming community. Today, we're joined by three dance artists who call the Twin Cities home—Joanna Lees, Jesse Schmitz-Boyd, and Erinn Liebhard. Together, we dive into the Twin Cities dance and arts scene, exploring how they found their way there, their roles in the dance world, and how the region's geography (and harsh winters) shape the artistic landscape. They share insights on leading dance companies, navigating the audition scene, and the importance of carving out a niche. We also discuss the concept of "all-encompassing physicality," available resources for artists, and the gaps they hope to see filled in the local dance community. Tune in for a rich conversation on what makes the Twin Cities such a unique and inspiring place for dance! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Listeners are introduced to our three amazing guests: Joanna Lees, Jesse Schmitz-Boyd, and Erinn Liebhard. ·       Their roles in the dance world and what brought them (or kept them) in the Twin Cities. ·       What 'Twin Cities' means and how the geography influences the dance scene. ·       How the winter (with its snow and ice) impacts their art and dance-making.  ·       They highlight their experiences leading dance companies in the Twin Cities. ·       We discuss the ins and outs of the audition scene in the Twin Cities. ·       Joanna expands on the concept of "all-encompassing physicality." ·       Jesse touches on the necessity of moving towards a "niche" in the Twin Cities dance scene. ·       The vibe of the dance community and different dance hubs in the area. ·       They expand on the different resources available in the Twin Cities. ·       The gaps (or downsides): changes and developments they'd love to see.  ·

Something About the Way She Moves with Heidi Henderson Vibrant, humble, and down-to-earth, Heidi Henderson is a Professor at Connecticut College and also the artistic director of elephant JANE dance, where she brings her unique vision and creativity to the stage. From Maine, to New York City, to Rhode Island, Heidi is a four-time recipient of the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts Choreography Fellowship. Her work has been performed internationally in London and Korea, as well as at renowned venues like Jacob's Pillow, The Flynn Space, and the Bates Dance Festival. She has danced with acclaimed companies and artists, including Bebe Miller, Nina Weiner, Paula Josa-Jones, Colleen Thomas, Peter Schmitz, and Sondra Loring, was a contributing editor at Contact Quarterly, a vehicle for moving ideas.  Join the conversation to hear what inspired her dance journey, what her experience was like in New York, what it was like to figure out the intricate logistics of performing in a roller-skating rink, and what inspired the name of her company. We highlight some of the challenges, benefits, and peaks of her journey, what's next for her, and much more! Don't miss out, tune in now.  Key Points From This Episode: ·       Heidi shares her dance journey throughout the years. ·       What ultimately sucked her into the world of dance. ·       She details her experience getting her M.F.A. at Smith and her plan after graduate school. ·       Heidi talks about her experience in New York with Bebe Miller, Nina Weiner, and more. ·       What Heidi did as a "job" during her time in New York (and how those skills are still in use!)  ·       The logistics behind her recent show, Untitled Sad Piece, performed in a roller-skating rink. ·       Heidi's journey as she started making her own work. ·       The story behind the name of her company, elephant JANE dance. ·       How her teaching career came together and evolved over the years. ·       She breaks down some of the challenges she's faced over the span of her dance journey.  ·       We discuss some of the benefits of starting a dance career later on. <!-- [if !suppor

A World Immersed in Art with Dancer, Filmmaker, Choreographer, and Artistic Director Jamila Glass Jamila Glass is a filmmaker, choreographer, and Artistic Director of L.A. Contemporary Dance Company (LACDC), where she has been a member since its founding in 2005. She has choreographed for Netflix, HBO, Hulu, BET, and PRADA, with her work featured in the NY Times, L.A. Times, and more. In 2024, she co-founded the Los Angeles Choreographers Institute and has directed 21 short dance films, a TV pilot, and music videos through her production company, The Cutting Room. A graduate of USC's School of Cinema-Television, her work blends movement, storytelling, and world-building to reflect the human experience. On this episode of Movers and Shapers: A Dance Podcast, Erin sits down with Jamila Glass to discuss her love for dance, her time at a performing arts high school, and her journey through USC's School of Cinema-Television. Jamila explores how dance and film began to intertwine in her life, unpacking her powerful statement: "I'm a better dancer because I'm a filmmaker, and I'm a better filmmaker because I'm a dancer." She reflects on nearly five years as Artistic Director of the L.A. Contemporary Dance Company (LACDC) and shares her current projects and excitement for what's ahead. Don't miss this insightful conversation with an inspiring artist. Thanks for listening! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Jamila shares the origin story of her love for dance. ·       She reflects on her time in a performing arts high school (in Houston). ·       What she wanted to get into after high school and her first entry into film: video editing. ·       Jamila takes us through her USC journey and her plan for after graduation. ·       How her two worlds of dance and film began to merge.  ·       She explains how she started and her experience choreographing for film and television. ·       Jamila delves into and unpacks her quote, "I'm a better dancer because I'm a filmmaker, and I'm a better filmmaker because I'm a dancer." ·       Why she finds it interesting that people grapple with the idea that they need to choose one thing and stick to it for the entirety of their careers.  ·       Jamila details her role and insights gained as Artistic Director of the L.A. Contemporary Dance Company (LACDC)

Five Voices, One City: Unpacking Chicago's Dance Community, with Kristina Fluty, Alyssa Gregory, Rahila Coats, Michael McStraw, and Helen Lee In this episode of Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast, we dive deeply into the vibrant and diverse world of Chicago's dance scene. Joining Erin are five incredible voices, each bringing a unique perspective on what makes this city's dance community so dynamic, expansive, and full of life. Featured in this episode are Kristina Fluty, Alyssa Gregory, Rahila Coats, Michael McStraw, and Helen Lee — five Chicago-based dance artists who capture the spirit and energy of this thriving artistic hub. Together, they share how living in Chicago has shaped their careers and creative journeys, and explore how the city's geography influences its dance community. We explore the work being created there, the support systems and resources that have been most valuable in their growth, and delve into an overview of opportunities for residencies and funding. Plus, each artist reflects on what keeps them curious, inspired, and energized within the Chicago dance world. Tune in for a lively and insightful conversation that captures the essence of this incredible dance community. Enjoy! Key Points From This Episode: · Setting the scene for the Chicago-focused episode. · We are introduced to our five guests: Alyssa Gregory, Kristina Fluty, Rahila Coats, Michael McStraw, and Helen Lee. · How living in Chicago has influenced their careers and artistic journeys. · Our guests help situate Chicago for listeners unfamiliar with the city and how it shapes the dance community. · We dive in and discuss the Chicago dance scene and the work being made. · Resources and support systems that have been the most valuable to our guests throughout their careers. · An overview of the opportunities available for dance residencies and funding within the Chicago dance scene. · Dance education hubs and the overall dance class vibe in Chicago. · Each guest talks about what keeps them curious, interested, and excited about their dance lives in Chicago. "In my time here in Chicago, I've just seen things grow, blossom, and then shift. That seems to be the rhythm in this community." — Michael McStraw Kristina Fluty, an Associate Professor at The Theatre School at DePaul University, has been dancing, teaching, consulting, and performing in Chicago since 2003, primarily with Molly Shanahan/Mad Shak. Alyssa (Uhh-lee-sa) Gregory is a Chicago-based performing artist and cultural organizer who moves between the worlds of dance, arts administration, and podcasting, amplifying Black creativity and championing the brilliance of Chicago's vibrant arts community. (she/her) Rahila

Crafting a Fulfilling Life In Dance with Tristan Ching Hartmann What does it take to craft a fulfilling life in dance? For Tristan Ching Hartmann, it's a blend of resilience, curiosity, community, and an unshakable love for movement. From her shy beginnings in Ventura, California, to performing with the Margaret Jenkins Dance Company in San Francisco, Tristan's journey has been anything but conventional. She reflects on transformative moments, including commuting long hours for ballet classes, finding her artistic home with Robert Moses' Kin, and reinventing herself as a jazz dancer during her time in London. Tristan delves into how her teaching practice reignited her creativity, her experiences taking on choreography, and the life lessons she's learned from Argentine Tango. She also shares the profound impact of a serious spinal injury that temporarily halted her dancing and how it led her to redefine her relationship with movement. Now dancing into her late 40s, she offers insights on adapting training, cherishing every moment in the studio, and navigating the physical demands of her art. Her passion for building community and mentoring younger dancers reflects her deep commitment to the art form and those who practice it. Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores what it truly means to craft a fulfilling life in dance! Key Points From This Episode: ·       An introduction to Tristan Ching Hartmann and her unique movement journey. ·       How a childhood dance class sparked a lifelong passion for movement and artistry. ·       Tristan's deep connection to ballet and her love for its precision, grace, and classical music. ·       The balancing act of pursuing dance while meeting her family's academic expectations. ·       How Stanford shaped her journey, leading to modern dance and joining Robert Moses' Kin. ·       The pivotal role of Robert Moses in Tristan's early professional career and artistic growth. ·       Recovering from a serious spinal injury and the life-changing decision to travel and reflect. ·       How moving to London allowed Tristan to reinvent herself and explore jazz and the West End. ·       Her transformative experience teaching and discovering new ways to connect with students. ·       Returning to the sta

The Durham Dance the Triangle and Triad. ·       How dance artists navigate the various challenges of making work in Durham. ·       Where in the community artists can come together in Durham or its surroundings. ·       Reflections on where dance fits into Durham's art landscape and why. ·       A breakdown of the different changes or developments they'd like to see in the dance community and how they envision their contributions to it.  ·       What is special to Kristin, Jessi, Anna, and Stacy about their dance life in Durham.  Podcast Guests: Anna Barker is a choreographer, mover and Pilates instructor based in Durham NC. Jes

This season we focus on interviews and discussions with vibrant artists from cities across the United States. Today - Alice Gosti in Seattle, WA. Beyond the Stage: Alice Gosti on Time, Space, and Identity What does it mean to create art that exists both within and beyond time and place? In this episode, we step into the world of Alice Gosti, an Italian-born, Seattle-based dance artist known for pushing the boundaries of performance. She is also a key collaborator of MALACARNE, an experimental dance and performance ensemble dedicated to co-creating transformative rituals that challenge limiting ideas about class, sexuality, gender, ability, and ethnicity. Raised in Italy with American roots, Alice's multicultural identity informs her approach to choreography and her fascination with "non-places" like airports, where people share fleeting moments of connection. She reveals how these unconventional spaces inspire her work, why beauty and entertainment are consequences of her work rather than motivations, and shares her passion for durational performance and the powerful transformations that occur over hours-long art experiences. Whether she's turning a museum into a stage or bringing choreography to the heart of an airport, Alice's work invites us to reconsider how we experience movement and meaning in unexpected spaces. Tune in for her reflections on the intersections of time, space, and identity in art and consider new ways to see life as a creative artist! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Alice's beginnings in Perugia, Italy, and her introduction to dance at three years old. ·       Early dance influences, including her exposure to the Alwin Nikolais lineage. ·       Pressure Alice faced to pursue choreography over dance due to her appearance. ·       Her interest in integrating performance art and dance in nontraditional venues. ·       Reflections on feeling like an "other" in both Italy and the United States. ·       Alice's strong connection to Seattle and its artistic support. ·       Insight into her love for planes, airports, and creating dance pieces in "non-places." ·       Alice's exploration of durational performances, inspired by long-form theater. ·       What Alice is working on now and what audiences can expect from her in the future. "I

Welcome to another episode of Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast! You're in for a very exciting treat as we venture into interviewing dance professionals from across the USA. Today we are talking with four dance figures from Pittsburgh, PA about their careers and the dance culture in their city. Tuning in, you'll hear all about our incredible guests, Shana Simmons, Peter Kope, Alan Obuzor, and Brittany Nettles' careers, how they have navigated the dance scene in Pittsburgh, what resources have helped them, and so much more! We delve into how dance fits into Pittsburgh's culture before discussing the competition and collaborative spirit in the city. We go on to talk about the incredible changes they have seen over the years in the Pittsburgh dance world and what they'd love to see happen in the future. Finally, they share beautiful moments that made them so passionate about working as dance professionals in Pittsburgh and why they love it so much. You don't want to miss out on this inspirational episode, so be sure to press play now!  Key Points From This Episode: ·       A brief overview of Pittsburgh's history of dance.  ·       Introducing today's guests: Shana Simmons, Peter Kope, Alan Obuzor, and Brittany Nettles.  ·       How they navigated dance careers in Pittsburgh and the resources that have helped them.  ·       Our guests tell us where dance fits into the culture of Pittsburgh.  ·       The collaborations and competition each of our guests experience.  ·       What kinds of classes they offer and the struggles they face when it comes to consistency.  ·       How they have seen the local dance community change over the years.  ·       The changes and collaborations they'd love to see in the Pittsburgh dance scene.  ·       Our guests tell us what they love about working in the dance industry in Pittsburgh.  Podcast Guests: Shana Simmons is the Founder and Artistic Director of Shana Simmons Dance, a contemporary dance organization and company whose mission is to bring high quality dance experiences through performance, education, and community building. Peter Kope is Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Attack Theatre, which fuses modern dance, original live music, and inter

We are back! This season we will focus on interviews and discussions with vibrant artists from cities across the United States. Up first - Clare Cook in Lafayette, Louisiana. Clare is the Founder and Creative Director of Basin Arts, a non-profit arts incubator dedicated to helping Louisiana artists develop sustainable creative practices. Basin Arts aims to expand access to professional contemporary arts experiences while fostering genuine connections between artists and the broader community. In our interview, we explore how dance was positively cultivated in different spaces throughout her life, what she's grateful for, and unpack her decision to pursue a life in dance. She shares insights into being the youngest in her NYU Tisch Dance program, her passion for storytelling and collaboration, and her interest in the theatre-dance hybrid. We also discuss her experience with an observership, the decision to return to Lafayette, and go deeper into the heart and vision behind Basin Arts. For all this and much more, be sure to tune in!  Key Points From This Episode: ·       We're introduced to our guest Clare Cook and her life and dance journey. ·       She reflects on how dance was cultivated in different spaces throughout her life and what she's grateful for. ·       Clare unpacks her decision to pursue a life in dance. ·       How she thought of dance as a way to become more of herself. ·       Her love and interest in storytelling and collaboration. ·       How she got her first gig choreographing a musical. ·       She talks about her interest in the theatre-dance hybrid. ·       Clare shares about her opportunity to do an observership.  ·       The impetus to move back to Louisiana and what it was like navigating that transition. ·       How the concept for Basin Arts started to unfold. ·       She speaks to the idea of trajectory as continued evolution along the path of creative process, collaboration, and community.  ·       Clare breaks down what creating authentic relationships with the community looks like through Basin Arts. ·       <!--[endif

A special announcement from host and Artistic Director of The Moving Architects, Erin Carlisle Norton. Support this one-of-a-kind inspiring podcast with a tax-deductible donation! themovingarchitects.org/support Movers & Shapers has been podcasting interviews with those who shape the dance field since 2015. Connect with our archive of 175 interviews: themovingarchitects.org/podcasts Follow on Instagram and Facebook for the latest!

When Decisions are Commitments with Rachel Damon Joining us today is Rachel Damon, a choreographer, theatrical designer, performer, and co-founder and artistic director of Synapse Arts, a Chicago-based dance theater company. Rachel's self-made career is a testament to her multidisciplinary talents, blending onstage and backstage roles to create dynamic performance works through collaboration, improvisation, and teamwork. In this episode, Rachel shares her remarkable journey from lovable weirdo at musical theatre summer camp to internationally-renowned production stage manager and performer who lives her life by making decisions as commitments. Tuning in, you'll discover how her dual passions for choreography and crafting have fueled her personal and professional growth, the power of educating performers to negotiate their value, ensuring that art is recognized as legitimate work, and why diversity is a cornerstone of Synapse Arts' identity. We also explore Rachel's love for theatre production, her innovative partnership with the Chicago Park District, and the unique site-specific performances born from this collaboration. Join us for an engaging conversation that covers all this and more! Key Points From This Episode: ·       An overview of Rachel's background and what sparked her interest in dance and theatre. ·       The immediacy that she loves about theatre production work and stage management. ·       How Links Hall in Chicago acted as a springboard for her career. ·       Insight into Synapse Arts, how it got started, and how it has evolved since. ·       Synapse's partnership with the Chicago Park District's Arts & Culture Unit (ACU). ·       Rachel's site-specific and outdoor performances that punctuate everyday life. ·       The significance of her interdisciplinary work, including her "textile dances." ·       Challenges she has encountered in her onstage and backstage career. ·       How Rachel empowers artists and advocates for art to be valued as work. ·       Ways that you can contribute to Synapse's 20th Birthday Bash Campaign. ·       Why a diversity of identities and lived experiences is important in the arts. "Being with the we

The Deeper Meaning of Dance, Dance and Emerging Technology, and Navigating an Economy that Exploits Dancers with Sydney Skybetter Creating a successful career as a dancer in a world where there are few opportunities to thrive is particularly challenging. However, today's guest has created a fascinating career for himself in the world of academia, research, and even dancing robots! Sydney Skybetter joins us today to discuss his life as a dancer, dance educator, and entrepreneur. In this conversation, you'll hear all about how Sydney was introduced to dance, the beauty in the chosen family he created at art school, and his incredible Conference for Research and Choreographic Interfaces (CRCI). After Sydney's studies, he was forced to hustle his way through a variety of odd jobs to survive financially and he tells us all about the important lessons he has learned from every job he's ever had. We also delve into why dance programs should consider the dangers of sending dancers out into a world and economy that isn't built for them, the connection between dance and emerging technology, potential problems for dancers and AI, and much more. Tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: ·       An overview of Sydney's life and how he got into dance.  ·       The connection between dance history and emerging technology.  ·       A commentary about the body-type expectations for dancers. ·       Insight into Sydney's dance training and the chosen family he created.  ·       All about the Conference for Research and Choreographic Interfaces (CRCI) he started.  ·       Comparisons between writing and performance.  ·       Some of his "weird jobs" and why he did them.  ·       The danger of pumping out dancers into an economy that will not make good use of them.  ·       How Sydney got into academia and what his experience at Brown University has been like.   ·       What he is most excited about right now and the research he is currently doing.  ·       How artists and dancers are being exploited, especially when it comes to technology.  ·       What Sydney is excited about for his career in the near future.  <p cla

Dance for a Violence-Free Future with Giada Matteini Today's guest, Giada Matteini, embodies the belief that artists have the extraordinary ability to shape a world free from violence. As a performer, educator, choreographer, and cultural producer, Giada founded WADE (Wandering Avian Dance Experience), a women-led performing arts company that brings awareness to gender-based violence and offers healing through the transformative power of dance. In this episode of Movers emphasizing how WADE emerged as a platform to raise awareness, initiate important conversations, empower survivors, and build a compassionate community of creative minds. You'll gain insight into Giada's journey, her dedication to her craft, and her unwavering commitment to using art as a catalyst for social change. This episode is a testament to the boundless potential of dance and resilience, so be sure to tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Giada's love for movement and teaching and an overview of her dance career. ·       The story of how she first came to the United States (and what made her stay). ·       How she learned English from The Cure and honed her American slang with TV. ·       Her early days in New York and how she began to build a career for herself. ·       Insight into her passion for learning and her formal dance education. ·       The haven that dance provided for Giada when life was difficult. ·       How WADE was born and how it became so much more than a dance company. ·       The bird that inspired the name and the four foundational pillars in the logo. ·       Touching stories about some of the most poignant moments from Giada's career. ·       Why Giada refers to ballet as "the greatest equalizer" and her somatic approach to it. ·       Insight into her plans to use dance as a tool to build a violence-free future for all.

The Journey of Creating Dance for Video with Mimi Garrard Video dance work has become increasingly popular as technology has advanced, but not many dancers and choreographers have made it their primary medium of work. Today's guest, Mimi Garrard, is the exception, having spent most of her extensive career focusing on video dance. In this episode of Movers & Shapers, we hear all about Mimi's life, what led her to dance, her training under Alwin Nikolais, why she chose video dance, and what she loves about it. We delve into how she combines video and live dancing before Mimi expands on how technology has changed her work, the lighting system her husband designed for her, and some of her biggest influences throughout her career and life. Mimi feels that intuition has always been a driving force for her, and today, she tells us how that has served her work. We even discuss how AI might impact her work and what's next for Mimi Garrard Dance Theatre. This is a fascinating episode filled with unique perspectives carved from Mimi's special journey, so be sure to tune in! Key Points From This Episode: ·       An overview of Mimi's life and what led her to dance.  ·       Her training and touring program with Alwin Nikolais and the pieces she did with him. ·       Mimi's move to the country, her outdoor work, and how madness is a theme of her work.  ·       What informed her decision to combine video with live dance and how it has been received.  ·       Who has influenced her work most throughout her career.  ·       What Alwin Nikolais was like (according to our guest!) ·       How Mimi got hooked on video dance and how her work has evolved with technology.  ·       The lighting system her husband came up with for her dance videos.  ·       How Mimi's intuition has served her throughout her career.  ·       The importance of learning and continuously working as a beginner.  ·       What's next for Mimi and her curiosity about how AI will affect her work.  ·       Why she doesn't attend screenings of her own work.    "If I don't know what t

Finding Your Artistry Beyond Words with Stefanie Nelson One of the beautiful things about dance is the ability to express yourself without words. You can just dance. Joining Erin on the podcast today is Stefanie Nelson, Founder and Director of Stefanie Nelson Dancegroup (SND), a contemporary dance company based in NYC. Stefanie also established Dance Italia, an international summer dance program in Lucca, Italy. Today, she shares what kickstarted her lifelong love of dance and the influence that Alice Teirstein had on her journey. She also offers insight into her college journey and what it takes to make it as an artist in New York City. Tuning in, you'll learn how she transitioned from dancer to choreographer and how 9/11 ultimately led her to Italy. She details her time dancing and choreographing in Italy before returning to America and shares her vision for Dance Italia. To learn more about Stefanie's career highlights, challenges, and the different projects and initiatives that keep her busy, be sure not to miss this episode of Movers & Shapers. Thanks for listening in! Key Points From This Episode: ·       How quitting piano led Stefanie to a lifelong love of dance. ·       Alice Teirstein and what led her to become a dancer. ·       What it means to "make it work" as an artist in New York City. ·       How Stefanie eventually transitioned into creating her own work as a choreographer. ·       Running away to Italy after 9/11 and how it played out. ·       Highlights from her time dancing and choreographing in Italy.  ·       Details about the Dance Italia festival and the vision behind it.  ·       How the organization and planning for Dance Italia have changed over the years. ·       The different projects and initiatives that Stefanie is busy with.  ·       Insight into her upcoming work in 2025 and beyond. ·       Highlights, challenges, and other obstacles from Stefanie's career journey.  ·       Her hopes, aspirations, and dreams for the future.  "There's something very beautiful about being able to express yourself without having t

Creating a Modern Dance Culture and Community with Kathy Dunn Hamrick Establishing a modern dance company is no easy feat, but today's guest managed to create a successful organization and build a wonderful modern dance community in Austin, Texas. Today on Movers Kathy Dunn Hamrick Dance.   ·       How Kathy balances her family and business while keeping her career interesting for herself.  ·       The incredible dance piece that was choreographed by Kathy and performed on a lake. ·       The modern dance culture in Austin and why Kathy started her dance festival.  ·       How COVID affected Kathy's business and festival.  ·       Kathy's diagnosis with stage four cancer and what's next for her and the organization.  ·       Why finances have always been Kathy's biggest business struggle.  ·       The highlights of Kathy's career and the wonderful dance community she's built.  <

Enjoying the Art, Expression, and Freedom of Dance with Julie Lemberger Welcome to the latest episode of the Movers and Shapers podcast, where today we're delighted to welcome our guest, Julie Lemberger. Julie is a multifaceted individual — she's had a life as a dancer, dance photographer, and educator. She has dedicated over 15 years to capturing the ephemeral beauty of concert dance. Her lens has encapsulated the essence of New York City's dance scene at the turn of the 21st century. Julie's stunning dance photography has graced the pages of prestigious publications like The New York Times, Dance Magazine, and numerous national and international journals and websites since 1993. Join the conversation to hear about what sparked her interest in dance, why she was initially turned off of modern dance, and how her ballet journey led her to places like The Netherlands, Germany, and New York.  We delve into her diverse dance ventures and then pivot to hear about her transition to Plan B: starting college. Julie shares the fascinating intersection of her worlds; photography and dance, and articulates the emotions she experiences when capturing dance through her camera. Don't miss out on this intriguing discussion! Tune in now to hear all this and much more. Thanks for listening!  Key Points From This Episode: ·       We discover how The Nutcracker sparked Julie's interest in dance. ·       Her thoughts on being more of an artist and enjoying ballet for the artistry of it.  ·       Why she decided to stick to the discipline of ballet while growing up. ·       Julie shares a turning point, and realization, in her dance career. ·       She delves into her time in Europe (The Netherlands, Germany, England). ·       We are transported forward, back to New York, and her other endeavors at the Graham School, Jacob's Pillow, and more.  ·       Her Plan B: starting college. ·       Why starting college was the saddest day of her life. ·       She recalls the time she got her first camera, at age 23. ·       When the two worlds collide: dance and photography. ·       What Julie enjoyed most about dance photography: her master's degree experience. <!

Being part of the global dance community can be deeply rewarding but it also has the potential to be exceptionally challenging and toxic. Not only are you competing for highly limited resources, but you also need to contend with how your self-worth can become contingent on the opinion of others. Today's guest, Betsy Miller, has experienced many of the highs and lows familiar to almost any dancer but ultimately counts herself blessed and deeply fortunate to have found genuine places of community within the dance world. Join us as we talk with Betsy about her early love of dance (and fashion!), her studies at Connecticut College, and how she uncovered her love of teaching while earning her MFA at The Ohio State University. She shares how establishing a collective with her former cohort allowed her to work in the collaborative models that would come to define her later approach to dance and how she earned her position as the Associate Professor of Dance at Salem State University, where she still finds herself today. We also learn about her ongoing american / woman dance project, and the circumstances that inspired it, before discussing how she chose to reorient the fundamental relationship between choreographer and dancer. For an expansive conversation on creative research, the beauty of being part of a dance community, and much more, be sure to tune in! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Betsy's early love of ballet and fashion and her discovery of modern dance. ·       The incredible faculty members and guest artists she studied under at Connecticut College ·       How she co-founded the Propel-her dance collective with her former cohort and friends. ·       How grad school helped her uncover her love of teaching. ·       How she became a tenured professor ·       The multitude of factors that led Betsy to start the american / woman project. ·       How she has used the american / woman project to interrogate the title subject matter and reorient the choreographer-dancer relationship. ·       Betsy shares the highs, lows, and biggest challenges of her career. "It's always about community and the places in which I find community in the dance world. Something about the way that we bring our bodies into the spaces and that we are allowing ourselves to be vulnerable because we are embodied, makes this community really special." — Betsy Miller Based in Salem Massachusetts, Betsy Miller is a dance artist, educator a

Happy Holidays from Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast! Listen to a special announcement from Host and Artistic Director of The Moving Architects, Erin Carlisle Norton. Support this podcast with a tax-deductible donation! themovingarchitects.org/support Find Show Notes & More: themovingarchitects.org/podcasts Folow on Instagram and Facebook

While dance is often underfunded and under-recognized, leaders in the field acknowledge the incredible talent that lives within every dancer, reminding them that they are, in fact, 'Acrobats of God'. Today's guest embodies the purpose of the Movers and Shapers: A Dance Podcast; to share insights from those who shape the dance field, and create an archive that preserves rich, personal experiences across generations. During this episode, Jeanne Ruddy shares what it was like to be a member of the Martha Graham Dance Company, and to work with Martha herself. You'll also hear how she forged her own unique role in dance, how she encourages other artists to flourish, and her passion for nurturing future generations of dancers in Philadelphia. Tuning in, you'll learn all about Jeanne's journey as a dancer, and finding her way to creative expression thereafter. Join us to hear all about the highs and lows of our guest's incredible career today.  Key Points From This Episode: ·       Her first experiences of dance and her lifelong love of music. ·       The changing dance scene of the 1960s. ·       The pivotal period of time for a dancer between 16 and 21. ·       Her experience at North Carolina School of the Arts and Utah Repertory Dance Theatre.  ·       Traveling to New York and starting a company with no capital.  ·       Getting a huge break with Yuriko Kikuchi after auditioning with Getting to Know You.  ·       Being chosen to be in the Martha Graham Dance Company and enjoying a ten-year career.  ·       Why Martha would sit in the second wing, stage right, in a director's chair, during performances. ·       The eventual decision to leave the company due to pain.  ·       The birth of the Performance Garage in Philadelphia.   ·       The program Jeanne currently facilitates for dancers.  ·       What Martha Graham taught: dancers are acrobats of God.  "I walked out of Deaths and Entrances, I was definitely a child of the 60s, and I didn't like it. Seven years later, I was playing one of the sisters in that very piece in Lincoln Centre. I loved it." — Jeanne Ruddy  Jeanne Ruddy is a former Principal Dancer with the Martha Graham Co

Creating a Vision for Kathak with Rukhmani Mehta Today on Movers & Shapers, we are joined by Rukhmani Mehta (previously Rina Mehta). Rukhmani is a choreographer, dancer, educator, Artistic Director of Leela Youth Dance Company, and the Co-Artistic Director of Leela Dance Collective, which brings together leading artists from around the world to advance a collective vision for kathak, a classical North Indian dance. In this episode, Rukhmani speaks about her love for creating community through dance and her deep interest in and curiosity for collaborative projects and processes. What stands out most is Rukhmani's resounding passion for her work and art form, despite the struggles she has had along the way, as well as the thoughtfulness with which she has built her life in dance, from co-leadership of her company to teaching to creating the first-ever endowment to support kathak dance and music in the US and more. Tune in today for an inspiring conversation about the power of collaboration, community, and preserving culture! Key Points From This Episode: ·       How Rukhmani started dancing and when she fell in love with kathak. ·       What she learned about the art form from kathak master, Pt. Chitresh Das. ·       The profoundly transformational experience that studying kathak afforded her. ·       How she learned to follow her heart and commit to starting a professional dance company. ·       Steps Rukhmani took to build a life in dance, including teaching and the Leela Foundation. ·       Audience development and creating a future for kathak as an educator. ·       Unpacking Rukhmani's belief in the power of collaboration. ·       Where the name Leela comes from and how it speaks to spontaneous creativity. ·       Insight into Rukhmani's love for creating communities of young women through dance. ·       The process of building Leela as a collective and how it was impacted by COVID. ·       Joys and challenges of a dance career and what you can look forward to from Leela! ·       The heartwarming story of why Rukhmani changed her name from Rina. "My work is about being an artist and putting the art form out in the world but – it has also become about creating the infrastructure that the artists who are carrying these traditions forward need." — Rukhmani Mehta Ruk

Continuing a Modern Dance Legacy with Samantha Géracht There are many legends in modern dance that are responsible for making the art form what it is today. But how do we continue their legacy? Today we hear from one of the people responsible for continuing the legacy of Anna Sokolow, Samantha Géracht. Samantha is the artistic director at the Sokolow Theatre/Dance Ensemble and in this episode, she tells us all about her incredible career, the multitude of amazing dance practitioners she has learned from and worked with, the difference between a Sokolow dancer and a Sokolow director, the challenges she faces in continuing Anna's legacy, and so much more! From ballet to modern dance, Samantha has experienced it all as student, performer, and teacher. You don't want to miss this one so tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Samantha tells us about her upbringing and what made her interested in dancing.  ·       What made her switch from ballet to modern dance and breaking the stigma about modern.  ·       Samantha shares her experience at the Nikolais/Louis Dance Lab and who taught her. ·       Samantha's early marriage and family life.  ·       Joining the Sokolow company and the teaching jobs she had while she was a dancer.  ·       Becoming a Sokolow artistic director and how it differed from being a Sokolow dancer.  ·       The legacy that Anna Sokolow left and Samantha's special Sokolow choreography.  ·       Samantha shares the biggest struggles and challenges throughout her career.  ·       The support system Samantha has to help her continue Anna's legacy.  ·       Some of the highlights of Samantha's career and what she's working on now.  ·       Where she sees the Sokolow Theatre/Dance Ensemble in the future. "Being a dancer and a modernist in an era that's not that interested in modernism is it's own struggle…..[I'm] giving myself a voice and figuring out what it is I want to do with Anna's legacy and what that means." — Samantha Géracht Samantha Géracht performed with Anna Sokolow's Players' Project for eleven years and is artistic d

Translating Vision into Action with Alyssa Alpine Whether it's for communication, marketing, budgeting, scheduling, or meetings (and more!), we can attest to the level of detail, creativity, and make-it-happen-attitude required in the support to make dance happen! The role of the Arts Administration is dedicated to translating vision into action, and with great appreciation and admiration we introduce today's guest, Alyssa Alpine. Alyssa, with her accompanying drive and passion, is the Founding Director of the CUNY Dance Initiative, a residency program for NYC choreographers on City University of New York (CUNY) college campuses. In our conversation with Alyssa today, we delve into the story of how her love for dance stems from both sides of her family and what has fueled her lifelong commitment. She takes us through her academic path and recounts the story of how she fell into a career as an Arts Administrator. Alyssa elaborates on the functioning of the CUNY Dance Initiative and highlights some of the challenges and peak moments she's encountered along her career journey. Tune in to this episode to hear more from Alyssa Alpine, a true master of wearing many hats (concurrently!) and doing them all successfully! Key Points From This Episode: ·       We get to meet Alyssa and explore her passionate journey in the world of dance. ·       She talks about what got her started in dance and what made her stay ·       Alyssa's perspective on the Midwest and why she'd find it difficult to replicate her current life elsewhere.  ·       Hopping from one school program to another and figuring out the dance world.  ·       Alyssa recounts the dream and plan she had had coming out of undergrad.  ·       We hear about her time at Columbia and her academic path. ·       Her sentiments about living and working in New York. ·       Where she went after the Limon Foundation (and having had enough of the Arts world!) ·       She tells the tale of how she wound up at CUNY, managing the CUNY Dance Initiative.  ·       Her dance journey amidst working and what that looked like for Alyssa. ·       The strengths and skills she brings to her role as an Arts Administrator. <p role="presentation

The Independent Thinker, Liz Lerman Liz is a choreographer, performer, writer, teacher, and speaker. For the past forty years, she has infused her artistic exploration with a personal touch, humor, intellectual vibrancy, and a contemporary edge. Her choreography has delved into a wide spectrum of topics, ranging from her experiences as a go-go dancer to an exploration of the intricacies of choreography and connections with community. Today, she shares with us insights into what ignited her love for dancing and reflects on the abundant influences that have affected both her life and artistic career. She talks about the importance and complexities of our feelings and how she rode the wild waves of her 20s to discover, for herself, what dance could mean for her. We hear about the impact of her mother's life and death on her stubbornness to figure life out for herself, why rehearsals should always matter, and the unfolding of events that surround the founding of The Dance Exchange. She expresses and reflects on how she views herself as more of an interdisciplinary artist and her eagerness to be generous about spreading her wealth of knowledge. She then details her passion for the Critical Response Process (CRP) and how that was formed over the years. Join in as we delve into the chronicles of her life and her pursuit of understanding. Tune in now! "One of my deep interests is the way we tell stories and what stories, and whose stories, and how they come across, and who's listening, and all those kinds of questions." – Liz Lerman Key Points From This Episode: ·       Liz offers insight into where she comes from and what ignited her love for dancing. ·       A wild ride in her 20s: riding the waves of figuring out what dance could be for her.  ·       The impact of her mother's life and death on her stubbornness to figure life out for herself. ·       How working intergenerationally moved and shifted her mindset. ·       The response she experienced when she started making work/performances. ·       Making rehearsals matter.  ·       More about the founding of The Dance Exchange.  ·       She goes into detail about how her different works unfolded uniquely. ·       Her thoughts on the nomadic life and being an ethical visitor.  ·

Building Community through Arts Education with Anna Pasternak and Blair Brown of Movement Exchange Our guests today are passionate about dance, dance education, and serving communities. Join us today as we share a podcast with you featuring an interview with Anna Pasternak, the Founder of Movement Exchange, and Blair Brown, the organization's current Executive Director. During our conversation, we hear about their journeys with dance, what captivates them about the arts, and how their life paths led them to Movement Exchange. Movement Exchange is an international non-profit organization that provides accessible and sustainable dance education to youth of all ages. They share all about how it started, how it evolved, and their plans for expansion. We hear more about their university chapters and international volunteer dance exchanges and how they build leadership development, cultural awareness, and a passion for community building through arts education. To hear more about their year-round sustainable programs in underresourced communities, be sure not to miss out on today's episode with Anna and Blair from Movement Exchange!  Key Points From This Episode: ·       Anna shares her personal history and transformative journey with dance. ·       She elaborates on her aspirations after high school and how getting into Harvard impacted her dance journey. ·       Fly and be free; the pull to see and experience everything the world had to offer.  ·       Anna talks about the exciting journey of founding the Movement Exchange. ·       Her biggest worry stepping down as Executive Director at Movement Exchange. ·       We hear from Blair about who she is, where she's from, and what brought her to dance! ·       She elaborates on the biggest shift that altered her life as an artist: dance education.  ·       Meeting Anna and Movement Exchange; the second jump in her career. ·       We discuss the realization of the barrier to dance, even in the USA.  ·       They talk about any pushback experienced with Movement Exchange (and how they counter it). ·       How you can get involved in the Movement Exchange programs.  "There will be nothing in my life that will be as important or have made me as happy as running Movemen

Around the World with Mark Morris From the age of seven, Mark Morris was enamored with dance. Immersing himself in everything from flamenco to Israeli folk to ballet to modern, Mark has lived, trained, and worked in many different parts of the world. In this episode, Mark takes us on a journey from the audition that signaled the start of his career to the Mark Morris Dance Company's first show in 1980 to his years in Brussels, where he did his "grandest work." We also take a look at the work that Mark devotes his time to these days, which involves choreographing "dances of the future" that are only intended to be seen by the public after his death.  His life has been eventful, to say the least, and this episode will give you a taste of the passion and flair that epitomize Mark Morris! Key Points From This Episode: Where Mark's love for dance originated. Different dance forms that he has been drawn to during his life. How his life changed when he was just 11 years old. Mark's experience training and working overseas. Why he moved to New York and the various companies he danced for while there. The driving force for the founding of the Mark Morris Dance Group. Mark Morris Dance Group's first show and how the company evolved from there. Some of Mark's career highlights. The contradictory attitudes that he dealt with during his time in Brussels. How the Mark Morris Dance Center came to be. Where Mark finds inspiration to continue to choreograph. Insight into his "dance of the future" concept. The profound role that music plays in his life. "I like excellence and I like surprise. I'm very interested in work that engages me and that's not necessarily what everybody else agrees with." — Mark Morris Mark Morris is the founder and Artistic Director of the Mark Morris Dance Group for which he has choreographed more than 150 works since its founding in 1980, and has received numerous awards and honorary degrees for his achievements in the performing arts as choreographer, conductor, and director. More on this episode: Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest!

Take Up Your Space with Confidence with Artistic Director Melissa M. Young Often, as dancers, we have a choice to take up space with confidence or feel defeated and hold back. Our guest on today's episode is one that continuously chose to take up space and inspired others to follow their intuitions, pursue what they love, and embrace their curiosity. This is an inspiring interview with the Artistic Director of Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), Melissa M. Young. Our conversation with Melissa is incredibly touching as she talks about why she loved the exploration of dance and remembers certain key impressions that impacted her greatly throughout the years. She tells us why she always chose to dance to the beat of her own drum and why she pursues uncovering herself in the most authentic ways before sharing about her time spent in New York City and how she ultimately ended up dancing at the Dallas Black Dance Theatre. She's an amazing individual with a passion for dance and holds the responsibility of being an artistic director with such fervor. Tune in now to hear about the pure joy derived from Melissa's life in dance. Enjoy.  Key Points From This Episode: ·       Melissa talks excitedly about who she is and where her love for dance ignited from. ·       She talks about the impact of The Stack-Up by Talley Beatty (Alvin Ailey) on her life's journey. ·       Melissa remembers taking a class from Donald McKayle and the impression it left on her.  ·       Why Melissa never put a timeline on her career and allowed the journey to flow.  ·       Navigating the shoulds, the coulds, and the woulds, and why she chooses to dance to the beat of her own drum.  ·       How the culture shock of moving to New York City made her feel more alive.  ·       How she came upon the DBDT audition notice and took a chance. ·       What it was like to move to Dallas: another culture shift. ·       She shares information regarding the current dance and art scene in Dallas.  ·       Looking back at her career, she reflects on some challenges she's faced and overcame.  ·       Things that are sparking excitement in Melissa for the future. ·       Why she looks for great human beings first when looking at prospective dancers

Creating a Technique that Honors the Individual with Susan Klein Today's guest Susan Klein is a true luminary, having shaped the modern dance landscape with her groundbreaking theories as creator of the renowned Klein Technique. In this episode, we explore her transformative journey as a movement pioneer, uncovering her dance background, the hurdles she overcame following a series of debilitating knee injuries, and her return to the world of movement. We discover how her experience ignited her passion for understanding the body and teaching others about movement, and how this ultimately led to the development of the Klein Technique. Susan recounts the pivotal moment she realized the limitations of imitation-based teaching and explains why she believes in nurturing individuality within dance. She opens up about her quest to safeguard her unique contributions, and why she decided to concede, despite her concern about the potential harm of her work being taught incorrectly. Join us as Susan shares her unique journey to quietly becoming one of the most valuable and influential players in the modern dance field. Key Points From This Episode: ·       Susan's dance background and training.  ·       Why she believes teaching through imitation to be ineffective.  ·       Her influences and how they shaped her journey. ·       The series of knee injuries that temporarily derailed her dancing career and her return to dance, post-injury. ·       How Susan's experience ultimately led to the development of the Klein Technique. ·       The importance of individuality in dance and Susan's continued fascination with movement and teaching. ·       Why she finds the widespread adoption of her work both gratifying and concerning. ·       Challenges she's faced in her dancing career and the various career paths she's explored. ·       Susan shares her plan to share her knowledge in book form.  "When I work with people, that's always exciting because their potential and what's going on in their lives or in their body is infinitely interesting." — Susan Klein Working and teaching in New York City, Susan Klein is the renowned creator of Klein Technique™ and a practitioner of Worsley style 5-element acupuncture and Zero Balancing. More on this episode: <a href= "http://www.themov

Activism, Dance, and Co-Leadership with Hope Mohr Dance, movement, performance, and art-making can play many roles in one's life. And how they are expressed can change shape over the course of a career. Our guest today, Hope Mohr, has woven together a life of art and activism as a choreographer, curator, and advocate. She has had a fascinating career journey, dedicating herself to both dance and activism and finding new and innovative ways to integrate the two. We talk with Hope about the inexorable pull that dance has exerted on her throughout her life and how her feminist awakening in college inspired her activism. She tells us about the leave of absence she took from studying law (on more than one occasion) to pursue unmissable dance opportunities with legends like Lucinda Childs and Trisha Brown, and shares how she finally completed her law degree before founding a presenting platform called The Bridge Project. Hope goes on to describe the project's transition to co-ownership, changing their name to Bridge Live Arts, why she chose to leave after 15 years, and what it's been like returning to work as an independent artist after so many collaborative projects. Our conversation today covers urgent and meaningful topics, from dismantling existing power structures and redistributing power within dance to returning to yourself and learning how to listen to your inner voice as an artist. To learn more about Hope's fascinating journey and bigger questions about dance and power, be sure to tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Hope's dedication to dance and activism throughout her career. ·       Learn about The Bridge Project, a presenting platform Hope started in 2010. ·       How the project transitioned to a model of co-leadership and was renamed Bridge Live Arts. ·       Her feminist awakening and how it led to her activism and work as a lawyer. ·       The focus of Hope's work as a choreographer: motherhood and navigating the world as someone who identifies as female.  ·       An overview of the curation and collaborative work Hope has done for Bridge Live Arts. ·       What informed Hope's decision to move away from Bridge Live Arts; tending to herself as an artist and making space for a more equitable distribution of power. ·       Hope's return to being an independent artist and her latest new work. <p role="presentatio

Building a Dancer with Rosalynde LeBlanc Rosalynde LeBlanc built her career dancing for some of the biggest names in dance. Today, she is Professor and Chair of Dance at Loyola Marymount University. Social justice awareness has always underpinned her work as a choreographer, which is why she creates pieces that are related to the world and not the mirror. During today's conversation, she shares her perspective on what it truly means to build a dancer beyond just the physical. Tune in to hear the highlights of her incredible journey as the daughter of an accomplished dancer with Paul Taylor, applying to college early and completing her high school diploma alongside her studies, and her time dancing with Bill T. Jones that skyrocketed her career. She shares the story of being invited to dance with Baryshnikov, before burning out just three years later. Rosalynde offers her insights on doing the necessary inner work to succeed as a dancer before telling listeners all about her transition into the world of education. Tune in today to hear all this and more! Key Points From This Episode: · Rosalynde LeBlanc's first experiences with dance and when she really fell in love with it. · Her mom's hands-off approach to managing her relationship with dance. · Why she declined an invitation to dance with Paul Taylor. · Her memory of Alvin Ailey's death and the first World AIDS Day in 1989. · Her experience at Purchase College and the social change that occurred while she was there. · The duet she performed with Bill T. Jones which launched her career. · Her experience of being in the work and touring with Still/Here. · Being invited to dance with Baryshnikov. · Her transition into education and sanctuary of the studio. · The piece she is working on at the moment; Tomboy. · The less talked about shadow of success. "The other 50% of being a dancer is your psychological state of being and that shapes your body as much as all the other technique classes. So you have to deal with that." — Rosalynde LeBlanc Rosalynde LeBlanc is a Bessie-nominated dancer and the co-director of Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters. A former dancer with the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company (1993 - 1999) and with Mikhail Baryshnikov's White Oak Dance Project (1999 – 2002), LeBlanc is now a professor and Chair of Dance at Loyola Marymount University. Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters is streaming now as part of season 15 AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange. Audiences can stream it for free at <a href= "https://worldchannel.org/show/afropop/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener"

Remembering Agnes De Mille with Elizabeth Ferrell and Jenna Rae Herrera Today's episode is a special one, where we look back and remember world-renowned dancer, choreographer, writer, lecturer, and director, Agnes De Mille. Agnes had a successful, yet tempestuous, career that spanned almost 70 years through the world of 20th-century American theater and ballet. We take a look at her through the eyes of Elizabeth Ferrell, formerly a member of the American Ballet Theater, and Jenna Rae Herrera, a principal artist with Ballet West. We hear their recollections of working with De Mille in the studio and performing her work, and we listen to their insights about how the course of American dance was forever changed by her. Stay tuned for a lively conversation about Agnes De Mille and her long-lasting impact; creating strong-willed American female roles. Enjoy! Key Points From This Episode: ·       Beth shares a short (but detailed) biography of Agnes De Mille; Agnes in a nutshell. ·       More about Beth, her background, and how she became part of De Mille's work. ·       Beth tells listeners about De Mille's personality (both in the studio and on stage).  ·       Jenna talks about her background in dance and career at Ballet West. ·       Jenna tells us about learning her role in Rodeo and how it helped her grow as an artist. ·       The process of learning the Rodeo material (and hearing the narrative from Agnes herself).  ·       Jenna shares her experience learning work that was made decades ago (and translating it to her body and the company). ·       We hear Beth's experience doing De Mille's work, both the physical experience and the learning process. ·       Jenna and Beth reminisce about their time performing The Cow Girl in the Rodeo ballet. ·       Why Rodeo was set on ballet companies (as opposed to other genres of dance). ·       Their thoughts on why De Mille's work has become timeless and why it's still being performed today.   "She was really ahead of her time, there's still a real push to nurture and push female choreographers and women's voices [today] — and here she is in the 1940s choosing h