eMCeeMovement

Today's guest, Kati Hanlon Mayo, Academy Associate Director for Charlotte Ballet's Upper School, trained at The Boston School of Ballet under the direction of E. Virginia Williams & Violette Verdy. At the age of 15, she became a member of Boston Ballet 2 before joining North Carolina Dance Theatre (now Charlotte Ballet) as a principal dancer. She also performed with Chautauqua Ballet Company under the direction of Jean Pierre Bonnefoux.Her students have gone on to professional careers with companies throughout the world, including: New York City Ballet, Nederland Dans Theater, San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet and Houston Ballet. Kati has been a guest teacher for The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, The Chautauqua Institution, Regional Dance America and she is a repetiteur for the Salvatore Aiello Trust. She is a certified instructor of Dance for Parkinson's Disease through The Mark Morris Dance Group and she also completed her instructor certification with Progressing Ballet Technique.In our conversation, Kati shares about the value of mentors, allowing yourself to grow, and staying focused on your training despite the distractions of competing for roles, navigating the unknowns, and all the things that can pull your focus from your technique.Thanks for listening to our conversation, thanks for sharing this episode with a friend and for leaving a review. Takeaways from our conversation:-mentors help you understand what you don't know-a life in dance starts at a young age; requiring both physical and emotional strength and maturity-stay connected to the joyful adventure of danceLearn more about Kati and Charlotte Ballet - including their summer program at Charlotteballet.org.You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at theballerinatist.com#dance #danceeducation #professionaldancer #dancecompany #ballet #ballerina #summerdanceprogram

Melissa recaps conversations on summer dance programs from universities to conservatories and how the diversity of training helps you make decisions from an informed perspective while building your community of peers, colleagues, and mentors.Learn more about dance training and careers in dance: www.theballerinatist.com.

Today's guest, Grae Robinson, recruiter in the dance program at Texas A & M University shares about their summer dance intensive, planning for academics and artistic growth so you can know your options to reduce pressure or stress in making decisions.Texas A&M dance programs educate students in the art and science of dance by offering a personalized approach to dance training through hands-on, field-based experiences including technical production, dance science research and Pilates. The Dance Science undergraduate program is designed to educate the full dancer through courses focused on dancer wellness and technique courses focused on proper biomechanics. The technical focus includes ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop and improvisation. The program also offers students research opportunities and minors in choreography and dance performance. Takeaways from our conversation:-ask for help asking the right question-take time to understand all the opportunities a program offers that may extend beyond the actual course-don't get distracted by all the shiny things; continually assess how a program aligns with what serves your purpose, interest, and abilities.Learn more about Texas A & M's program or their Summer Dance Intensive.You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at theballerinatist.com

Today's guest, Madeline Jazz Harvey, is an Associate Professor at Colorado State University, is a dance educator, choreographer, and performer specializing in classical and contemporary ballet. Her twenty-year performance career includes dancing with Charlotte Ballet, Carolina Ballet Theatre, and Impact Dance Company. She attended summer intensive programs on full scholarship at Chautauqua Institution, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and The Juilliard School.Madeline holds a BA and Professional Training Certificate in Dance from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and an MFA in Choreography from Jacksonville University. Human connection and vulnerability drive her practice. Her creative research investigates play as a paradigm for choreographic process. In 2007, she was the youngest recipient of the New York Choreographic Institute Fellowship Award. She has premiered over 50 original works. She is credited with the development of ShapeX, a wellness program for children with Type II Diabetes. Currently, she is the Principal Investigator for an ongoing research study, Movement Through Parenthood, examining the efficacy of an original EA based dance intervention for improving emotional availability and wellbeing from pregnancy through postpartum. In our conversation Madeline - despite still recovering from the flu - shares the value of collegiate summer dance programs, building creative research, and collaboration as a gateway to learn and opportunity.Takeaways from our conversation:-look for dance experiences that help you take creative risk-collaboration on all levels will strengthen your practice-bring your artistic self into all areas of your lifeLearn more about Madeline at https://madelinejazzharvey.weebly.com/and CSU's dance program at: https://dance.colostate.edu/Check out Dance Lab: https://dance.colostate.edu/dance-lab/Learn more about dance training and career planning: https://www.theballerinatist.com/

Emily Kent, Education Director for Pilobolus, shares about the company's summer offerings. She holds a BSEd in Dance Education from the University of Georgia and began working with Pilobolus in 1999, first as a dancer and collaborator and then Teaching Artist. She has created original works for high school and university dance companies for Pilobolus and as an individual artist. She has set classic Pilobolus repertoire on high school and university students. She has created new programs to share the Pilobolus Method to people of all ages and abilities to people around the country: Pilobolus @ Play, the flagship touring education residency, Connecting with Balance, a progressive program for the aging population, The Pilobolus Teaching Manual, to share their techniques with teachers. Pilobolus is an internationally renowned dance company. For over 50 years, they have tested the limits of human physicality, exploring the power of connected bodies. You've seen them at the Oscars, the VMAs, and the Olympics. They've collaborated with OK Go, the NFL, Hyundai, RadioLab, Penn & Teller, and more. Honors include a TED Fellowship, a Grammy® Nomination, a Primetime Emmy® Award, and several Cannes Lion Awards.  Learn more about Emily and Pilobolus: https://pilobolus.org/company You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at theballerinatist.com

Anamarie McGinn is the School Director for Central Florida Ballet. She has received training from prestigious schools all over the U.S. such as; American Ballet Theatre, Boston Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and Joffrey Ballet School. She danced professionally  with Orlando Ballet for 19 seasons, dancing under Fernando Bujones, Bruce Marks, Robert Hill, and Jorden Morris. In 2006, at the American Dance Competition, Anamarie was awarded the Gold Medal in the Senior Classical division as well as The Fernando Bujones “Excellence Award.”  Anamarie received her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Central Florida.  During her tenure with Orlando Ballet, Anamarie also held the title of Company Rehearsal Assistant, where she worked closely with the company and Artistic Staff to stage choreography and run rehearsals.  Anamarie received her ABT Teaching Certification, and was on the teaching faculty for Orlando Ballet School for over 15 years. Takeaways from our conversation:-always give it your all whether in rehearsal, class, or performance-explore how you can move in different techniques and styles-advocate for yourself inside and outside of the studio - a dancer's life is uniqueThanks for listening to our conversation, thanks for sharing this episode with a friend and for leaving a review. Learn more about Anamarie and Central Florida Ballet.You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at theballerinatist.com

Today we're looking at shaping a personal statement as a dancer. As you progress through your artistic development, you'll be asked to share for artistic philosophy, or perspective. Having a foundational awareness of one's artistic identity offers a filter through which to make work, choose work, and represent yourself. That identity will continue to add layers, but it also gives you a self-accountability tool so you can center yourself, bring yourself into alignment, and move with confident purpose through life. As artists, sometimes the personal identity becomes one with the artistic identity. But, having a personal identity separate and distinct from your creative life can help anchor you in the world outside of the studio. In The Dancer Career Planner, we start by crafting a personal statement. Before we even look at creative goals and dreams - who is it that you are trying to be? This is important because the big shiny lights can sometimes bring things out of focus. It is easy to find yourself grinding away at a project or choreographic work and suddenly wonder, “why I am doing this?” So, a personal statement helps you forge and maintain an identity outside of dance. Takeaways from our conversation: -values matter, they shape your character -your character impacts your reputation -knowing how you want to live supports decision making -understanding what motivates you empowers you to hone your strengths Get The Dancer Career Planner: https://www.theballerinatist.com/ Thanks for listening to our conversation, thanks for sharing this episode with a friend and for leaving a review. 

Melissa shares about Nutcracker traditions and how it can be such a defining experience for young dancers en pointe. Learn about the importance creating a strong foundation for pointe work so you (or your dancer) are prepared for pointe work. Understand: alignment, neuromuscular control, and the anatomy of a pointe shoe for an optimal experience. Check out the Prepared for Pointe Work course and more resources for pre-professional dancers and their parents: https://www.theballerinatist.com/

For young dancers in rigorous dance training programs, balancing dance with academics can be challenging. There is a range of options to find equilibrium. Learn about the timing of educational shifts and the differences between pre-professional training, a trainee or apprentice program, conservatories and universities so you and your dancer can make informed decisions every step (and jete) of the way. This episode covers the chapter on Academics in the Parenting for Dancers ebook: https://www.theballerinatist.com/thingsdancersneed/p/parenting-for-dancers-how-dance-training-works-and-how-you-can-help-your-dancer-be-successful Learn more about dance education and career planning resources: https://www.theballerinatist.com/

What do you do with feedback? Maybe you (or your dancer) is getting feedback that is unclear. The Feedback Filter in the Parenting for Dancers ebook is a great tool to get the most out of feedback to help your dancer grow with confidence. Get the book: https://www.theballerinatist.com/thingsdancersneed/p/parenting-for-dancers-how-dance-training-works-and-how-you-can-help-your-dancer-be-successful Schedule a coaching call: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/31df4fbb/appointment/29534329/calendar/6361592?appointmentTypeIds%5B%5D=29534329 Check out courses at Dance Education Laboratory: https://www.danceedlab.com/courses/calendar/

Michal Harvey is our final episode in our season engaging with artists based in Middle TN. Michal is a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor through Balanced Body, a ballet teacher, and a former professional ballet dancer. A Nashville native, Michal trained with The Centennial Youth Ballet. In 2010 she earned a B.A in Dance from Belhaven University. Michal pursued a number of dance performance opportunities with regional companies in Jackson, MS; Jerusalem, Israel; and Fort Worth, Texas, where she danced professionally with Ballet Concerto. Michal relocated back to Nashville in 2013 to a full-time faculty position with The School of Nashville Ballet. She received her Master's in Organizational Leadership and Communication from Belmont University in 2019. She currently teaches at P3 Nashville and Centennial Youth Ballet. In our conversation she shares about balancing training with long term goals, being open to new directions, and establishing one's identity outside the dance studio. Takeaways from our conversation: -we grow as we learn -accountability (and a support system) fuels growth -learning from weaknesses -seeking sustainability in a practice  Thanks for listening to our conversation, thanks for sharing this episode with a friend and for leaving a review.  You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at emceemovement.com.

Dancers all around the world are wrapping up their summer dance programs - which is kind of like the Olympics of dance. Celebrate but don't forget to debrief your SDP experience - because it will help you confidently make decisions moving forward. Melissa shares things to cover; and the how and why of interpreting the highs and lows of an SDP. Learn more: www.emceemovement.com.

Helping your dancer prepare to become the director of their path in dance is critical to their transitions through opportunities. Key pieces to this include: audition mindset, healthy boundaries, proactive communication, mentorship, financial literacy, accountability and transparency. Even though the majority of your dancer's training and performing will take place in group settings, progression as a dancer is a solo role. So, understanding how to advocate for themselves based on their goals, values, and purpose is critical towards a meaningful experience in dance. Get the Parenting for Dancers book: https://hpdtn.com/thingsdancersneed/p/parenting-for-dancers-how-dance-training-works-and-how-you-can-help-your-dancer-be-successful

Learn how to make the most out of teacher relationships - from communication to feedback and even becoming a teacher. Teaching is more than just telling people what to do. It is a craft and skill to be nurtured. This is an excerpt from the Parent for Dancers guide which can be found here . For more resources on dance training and career planning for dancers, visit emceemovement.com.

Get Melissa's guide to Summer Dance Programs - Melissa worked for Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Boston Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet's summer programs. She created an ebook for Parents with her tips and recommendations from her experiences in different cities with different companies so they can prepare their dancers to have a fun, meaningful experience at summer dance programs. Get the guide: https://hpdtn.com/thingsdancersneed/p/rockyoursummerdanceprogram Learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers: emceemovement.com

Dancer-choreographers Brandon Masele and Laura Defretin shared about their work Rave Lucid which is being presented by Oz Arts Nashville February 29-March 2nd. Brandon, an Electro dancer and Laura, a hip hop dancer worked together in this piece to bring electro dance to the forefront as its own independent technique from hip hop dance. You'll hear about their growth as creative partners and independent artists, their dedication to illuminating the nuances of their forms, and the process of finding synergy on stage, in movement. You can learn more about about Brandon, Laura, and their company Mazelfreten and if you'd like to experience their movement in your body, Oz Arts is hosting a free master class on March 2nd with company dancer Adrien Larrazet. Learn more about the show at Oz Arts Nashville. You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at emceemovement.com.

Matthew Robinson has a diverse background of movement experience in dance and martial arts. He performed with The West Virginia Dance Company and Roanoke Ballet Theatre while studying to receive his BFA from Radford University. In Cleveland, OH he performed with The Dancing Wheels Company. He also choreographed for and worked with The Cleveland Dance Project Company, performed with North Pointe Ballet and MorrisonDance. He currently dances with di Mossa and Nashville Dance Collective - for which he serves as Artistic Director - as well as continuing to freelance choreograph, dance, and teach. In our conversation, Matthew shares about the process of creating an artist-forward organization, operating with intention, and developing leadership skills. Learn more about Matthew: https://www.nashvilledancecollective.org/company2 If you or someone you know is interested in serving as a board member, you can reach out to Matthew through NDC's website as well. Attend NDC's April shows: https://www.nashvilledancecollective.org/events You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at emceemovement.com.

A Nashville based photographer specializing in dance and fine art photography, Martin O'Connor has worked with professional dance companies, studios, and collegiate dance programs to capture dance. He received the Dance Advocate Award from the TN Association of Dance in 2008 for his dedication and support of the dance community. In our conversation, Martin shares about the dynamics of creating meaningful images in dance, developing an eye for movement, and as a true member of the dance community, emphasizing the value of feedback to grow as an artist. Learn more about Martin: http://www.martinoconnorphoto.com/ Learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at emceemovement.com.

Today's guest Kaitlyn McDermitt graduated from Southern Methodist University with a BFA in Dance Performance in 2012. She has performed with Roxey Ballet, Avant Chamber Ballet, Ballet North Texas and Bruce Wood Dance Project. Following her transition from performing, Kaitlyn saw a need for mindset training and personal development in the dance industry and created her coaching business Confidance. Her mission is to help dancers feel more confident in themselves in and out of the studio, find their identity through dance and live life to their greatest potential. We talked about transitioning studios, Royal Academy of Dance training, and distinguishing your identity from being completely rooted in dance - you're not just a dancer. You can learn more about Kaitlyn on her instagram, @developconfidance. You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at emceemovement.com.

Melissa shares six Pro-tips for choosing a dance studio that will save you the time and frustration of feeling like you're missing out on the best option for you and your dancer. Grab the free download and learn more about planning for a career in dance: emceemovement.com.

If your dancer is serious about dance and in a pre-professional dance program, you're probably learning that being the best dancer isn't always enough. This episode covers timelines for pre-professional dance training and milestones for dancers planning for a professional career in dance. For more tools on planning for a career in dance: https://hpdtn.com/thingsdancersneed Timeline for Pre-Professional Dance Training Download

Melissa shares from her ebook, “Parenting for Dancers: learn how dance training works and how to help your dancer be successful.” This is a must-have guide for parents of dancers whether your child is about to start dance training or has been dancing for years. If you feel like you have no idea how to support your dancer or manage their dance training, this is a great place to start. Get the ebook: https://hpdtn.com/thingsdancersneed/p/parenting-for-dancers-how-dance-training-works-and-how-you-can-help-your-dancer-be-successful Learn more: emceemovement.com.

About today's guests: Nashville Ballet's Artistic Director and CEO, Nick Mullikin oversees all administrative staff, artistic productions, and School of Nashville Ballet programs, serving over 40,000 Middle Tennesseans and 1800 students. He has commissioned over 20 new works for the organization, choreographed several works for Nashville Ballet and NB2, and is highly sought after for teaching and judging international dance competitions. Prior to joining Nashville Ballet, Mullikin has worked with Houston Ballet, Ballet West, and The Washington Ballet. Travis Bradley: Currently, Rehearsal Director for NB2, He has danced for Ballet Memphis, Houston Ballet, Richmond Ballet, and Julia Adam Dance. Travis has created numerous classical and contemporary ballets throughout the years, and has also co-directed and co-choreographed over 20 musicals. His new work will be part of the Nashville Dance Festival program. Mackenzie Kenyon: A member of NB2, she was previously a trainee at the Joffrey Academy of Dance and was able to choreograph as a part of the Joffrey Academy “Young Moves” program. Kenyon moved to Nashville in 2021 to join NB2 as a trainee and was promoted to NB2 Dancer in November 2022. Mackenzie has also choreographed for School of Nashville Ballet during the Academy Winter Workshop. Nashville Dance Festival takes place Friday, July 21st at Belmont University's state-of-the-art Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at 7 p.m. and showcases classical and contemporary pieces performed by renowned guest artists from Dance Theatre of Harlem - including former NB2 dancer Alexandra Hutchinson, Collage Dance Collective, Nashville Ballet company dancers, NB2, Nashville Ballet's official second company, and Nashville Ballet's Summer Intensive students. Learn more: NashvilleBallet.com. You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers at emceemovement.com.

Nicole Ahima, affectionately known as Nicole la Bailarina, is a popular Salsa dance instructor in Nashville, helping organize the entire local Salsa Scene. Many in the area know her for her great instruction in the art of Salsa, for her women's dance team, Music City Mambo, for her song-spinning and social planning skills. In this episode, Nicole talks about making shifts inside and outside of her main movement practice to deepen and inform her work. Her journey in dance began in childhood but it wasn't until college that she took ownership of her dance practice. Nicole encourages artist entrepreneurs to be willing to learn, to honor relationships, and to fully commit to one's purpose. Learn more about Nicole: https://www.nicolelabailarina.com/ Learn more about dance education and planning for a career in dance: www.emceemovement.com.

Jackie Zarcone is originally from Nashville, Tennessee and grew up dancing at Franklin School of Performing under the direction of Kaylee Cahoon. She expanded her training in college, graduating from the University of Alabama with a BA in Dance and a minor in Biology. She completed an intensive workshop in the Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT) Junior, Senior & Advanced programs conducted and produced by Marie Walton-Mahon. Jackie is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 5 of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. She now resides in Birmingham, Alabama where she is teaching at The Pointe Dance Arts while a trainee with The Pilates Center of Boulder in their Intermediate Plus 600 hour course. She shares about making the most of transitions, opportunities, and mentorship. Learn more at www.emceemovement.com. Thanks for listening and sharing!

Amy Weber is the founder of THE pow{h}er METHOD and releve one foundation - a non-profit dedicated to helping ensure every woman has access to a safe place to begin and/or continue the journey of becoming healthy in a setting that believes in renewing the mind, body and spirit through movement, encouragement and prayer. THE pow{h}er METHOD online memberships help to fund the purpose of releve one foundation, which allows everyone to play a part in the healing journey of many women in need. Classically trained in dance, choreography, and barre fitness, Amy has taught classes, trained and certified hundreds of instructors worldwide. She shares about creating spaces for movement where people feel loved and safe, making decisions driven by values, and the practice of being present with yourself and as a teacher. Amy is an encourager, a teacher, and a witness to healing and empowerment through mind/body/spirit movement. She is here to remind you that with God, ALL things are possible! emcee{your}movement focuses on shaping meaningful experiences in dance through education and awareness of what working in dance can look like from traditional studio teaching to dance ministry. Learn more or check out the Dancer Career Planner: emceemovement.com.

Megan Ciccoline White has been a movement educator for over 20 years. She specializes in teaching Classical Pilates, Restorative practices, and dance education. She lives in Columbia TN, with her husband and three kids, where she owns and teaches at Movement Lab. In her story, you'll hear about learning to listen to one's inner voice, observing and reflecting on every experience, and courageously creating opportunity. Learn more about Megan's work: https://movementlabtn.com/ Visit www.emceemovement.com for more episodes and dance education resources.

Founder and Executive Director of MOVE Inclusive Dance, Lauren Morris, shares about starting her organization with the mission to empower individuals of all ability levels to learn life skills through dance using the power of movement and music to transform students' lives while providing a nurturing, inviting community for all. She has successfully grown her organization from a small summer camp with 13 students to a substantial year-round program serving individuals across the US. She has garnered support from iFundWomen and The Red Backpack Global Giving Fund in support of Female Entrepreneurship, as well as being anorganization featured by New York media foundation BuzzFeed. Learn more about her work: https://www.moveinclusivedance.com/who-we-are Learn more about dance education and career development: www.emceemovement.com

Christi's decades of experience in arts management began from her own career as a performing artist in musical theatre across the country. She played all the parts from within; performing, choreographing directing, and producing before moving directly into management. A Nashville native, Christi has witnessed the growth of the industry from performing with Nashville Children's Theatre to rising through roles at Tennessee Performing Arts Center and Westport Country Playhouse. She now consults through her own company, Airlie Strategies, with a focus on small arts and non-profit organizations needing to build sustainable infrastructure.  Learn more about dance education and career development: www.emceemovement.com

Nashvillian Cortney Henry shares about her experiences in Music City's Swing Dance community. Upon moving to Nashville six years ago, she started dancing, taking classes, and volunteering with Swing Dance Nashville which includes planning Music City Exchange - a weekend of non-stop dancing. Cortney also started Jukebox Mondays at Bold Patriot Brewing Co. in Nashville. Cortney shares about the personal transformation and connections that take place in the partnership, improvisation, and spontaneity of swing dance. Her joy for dance and connecting with others will make you plan a trip to Music City just for dance. Swing Dancing in Nashville: https://swingdancenashville.com http://musiccityexchange.com https://boldpatriotbrewing.com/events.htm Listen to more episodes and learn more about Melissa's work: https://www.harpethpilates.com/dance-education

A graduate of Florida State University, Michelle Mercedes worked with Urban Bush Women and Dance Lab New York prior to being cast as Clarice in the 2020 West Side Story revival on Broadway. She appeared in New York productions of I Married an Angel and Samson et Dalila, and regional productions of The Wiz, Mary Poppins, Crazy for You, and Footloose. In addition to her performance career, she is an entrepreneur and MBA candidate at the University of Florida. She also worked in the fitness industry both as an educator and as an administrator with certifications as a personal trainer and Pilates Instructor. Her work is shaped by her love of dance, drive to impact the industry, and as a black woman. She plans to establish a talent agency focused on access and diversity for performing artists of color. In our conversation she shares the very real joys and challenges in the arts and entertainment industry, and how she shapes her mindset to carve out her space within it. She is direct, grateful, and focused. To learn more about Michelle and her work, check out her Instagram feed @michellemercedes_. Let me know how you've responded to her experience via my website or social media. Be inspired and be brave, YOU are the emcee of your story.

Melissa reflects on her experiences working in summer dance programs - including Boston Ballet, Miami City Ballet, & San Francisco Ballet - and how those programs opened up other opportunities. You'll be amused, recognize yourself at times, and inspired to think strategically about how you approach summer dance programs. Need more support? Check out En Pointe Parenting & Rock Summer Dance Programs to get started. Learn more and work with Melissa to plan your career in dance: https://www.emceemovement.com/

Melissa reflects upon her first summer dance programs as a dancer and as an RA with Boston Conservatory (now part of Berklee College), Central Pennsylvania Youth, and Boston Ballet - lessons, losses, and living memories. You'll be amused, recognize yourself at times, and inspired to think strategically about how you approach summer dance program opportunities. Need more support? Check out En Pointe Parenting & Rock Summer Dance Programs to get started. Learn more and work with Melissa to plan your career in dance: https://www.emceemovement.com/

I met Maia Claire Garrison through our work at The Joyce Theater in the Dance Education Program. She is the Owner & Creative Director of Reel. Dance. Music. With a musician father and dancer mother, the arts were embedded in her upbringing. Maia Claire started in childhood as a competitive gymnast, at age 10 she was discovered by The Big Apple Circus. For two years she studied circus arts and joined The Back Street Flyers' circus act, performing and touring as a child acrobat. She joined her first professional dance troupe as a teenager with Afro Danza. She's toured extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America working as a dancer, singer, actress, and with the critically acclaimed Urban Bush Women directed by Jawole Willa Jo Zollar. Her company M'Zawa Danz was presented at a range of venues such as Aaron Davis Hall, Bennington College, Brooklyn Museum of Art, Brooklyn Academy of Music, City Center, New York City College, Central Park Summer Stage, Celebrate Brooklyn, Connecticut College, Dance Space Project, Dance Theater Workshop, Florida State University, Jacob's Pillow, The Kitchen, The Knitting Factory, Lincoln Center Out-of-Doors, Miami Dade College, The Miller Theater, New Jersey City University, New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Playhouse 91, 651 Arts, Rutgers State University, Sarah Lawrence College, St. Stephen's School Rome, SUNY Potsdam University, Symphony Space, Syracuse University, Wave Hill and at The World Trade Center Plaza to name a few. Awarded three consecutive grants from the New York Foundation for the Arts, Maia Claire choreographed multi-disciplinary dance performances, wrote music and co-produced studio recordings often collaborating with her two siblings, ShapeShifter Lab owner/bassist Matthew Garrison, and distinguished Jazz vocalist Joy Garrison. Both widely respected and internationally acclaimed artists in their own right. Learn more about her work: www.maiaclaire.com www.athleticflowmethod.com iTunes This conversation took place in January 2021. Learn more about career planning for dance: https://www.emceemovement.com/.

Becca Hoback joined me in advance of her program, Enactor, premiering at OZ Arts Nashville on June 24th with three solo dances that explore the relationship between the body, womanhood, and a rapidly changing society. She is a founding member of contemporary dance collective New Dialect, and featured in the company as a performer, outreach workshop team leader, community and company class teacher, and choreographic assistant to artistic director Banning Bouldin. She received an Individual Artist Fellowship from the Tennessee Arts Commission in 2020. She is an adjunct dance instructor at Harpeth Hall and trained at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Learn more about Becca Hoback & Oz Arts Nashville. Register for Dancer Clinic on 6/5 in Franklin, TN. Learn more about what I do.

Ashley Brown teaches dance and technical theatre at Brooklyn Prospect High School and is the K-12 Dance Coordinator for Prospect Schools Network. She collaborates with Shining Light as a teaching artist jail/prison facilities and as a way to process and bring awareness to those experiences, she performed at TEDxColumbiaUniversity2019. She's also served as Stage Manager for Off Broadway productions and as former director of BT Dance, a faith based dance company. She currently performs with The DynamitExperience. Ashley is a graduate of Florida State University and Spelman College, where she received an MFA in dance performance and choreography and a BA in child development, respectively. She created a full service production company, Heartworks Productions, to create and produce underrepresented stories and provide an entry point into theatrical production for middle and high students. 

I briefly worked for Catherine Gallant several years ago assisting with event planning and grant writing on a freelance basis. She is a performer, choreographer and teacher - approaching 25 years with PS 89 in Manhattan. Catherine and her students appeared in the documentary PS DANCE. She served on the writing committee for the NYCDOE's Blueprint for the Arts in DANCE and is on the faculty of the Dance Education Laboratory (DEL). She is a graduate of the Boston Conservatory and holds an MFA in Dance from Temple University. She studied with the Limon Co. and Anna Sokolow, among many others. She is also a dance historian with a specialty in the art and technique of Isadora Duncan. In 1989 she co-founded Dances by Isadora (with Patricia Adams) which has performed for audiences around the world. Catherine performs throughout the US in Jerome Bel's work Isadora Duncan. Learn more about her work: http://www.catherinegallantdance.com/ This conversation took place in December 2020.

Mollie Sansone, a dancer with Nashville Ballet since 2004, shares her 17 year history learning one ballet in the repertoire. As the company prepares to debut a digital reimagining of Artistic Director Paul Vasterling's work, Seasons, Mollie reflects on how the work has transformed, what it's like being back in the studio with her colleagues, and shares a glimpse of her process bringing her role in the Winter section to life. Mollie's dance training began in North Carolina, and she continued to train during the summer at various programs. She is active as a dance educator and choreographer, set to debut two new works for Nashville Ballet. In 2013, she received the Individual Artist Fellowship awarded by the Tennessee Arts Commission. Additionally, she performs as a guest artist in a range of roles. See Mollie perform in Seasons. Preview the music: Vivaldi Richter

Christopher Rutt will be retiring this year from twenty years as the Dance Coordinator for New Trier High School in Illinois where he leads the Menz Dance program. He completed undergraduate studies in literature at Cleveland State University and graduate studies in dance at California State University-Long Beach. Chris shares about his start in dance, his love for movement, and anchoring his work in respect for every body in every kind of movement. He reflects on building a legacy through dance including alumni from his program who have danced on Broadway and joined ballet companies. If you're curious about building and sustaining programs that make a difference with dance as the pathway, his story will inspire and encourage you. Learn more: NDEO Men in Dance Menz Dance

Stefan Zubal, a dance educator and performing artist, joins Be En Pointe to share his expertise in crafting experiences for personal fulfillment. Stefan danced professionally with Richmond Ballet and Fort Wayne Ballet, completed undergraduate studies in Theatre at Purdue University Fort Wayne and his MFA in dance at Florida State University - where, you guessed it, we met. Stefan has worked as a choreographer, educator, and director for various organizations and acts a judge for Starquest International. In higher education, he taught at Hartford Community College and Seton Hill University. He is currently a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Ballet at Utah Valley University. Stefan relentlessly pursues all aspects of each opportunity and has developed strong mentors along the way to guide his artistic efforts. His willingness to operate outside of his comfort zone, to try things differently, and learn from those around him have been among his super powers as a performing artist and educator. For a 360 degree look at what is like to be a student, join a company, and become an educator, here is Stefan's story. Conditioning and recovery is important for any dancer, which is why Melissa recommends the Rollga, a cross-directional foam roller designed to stabilize the hips, align the back, and increase range-of-motion. It's ideal for muscle recovery, fascial health, and functional restoration of movement. Ordinary foam rollers cause discomfort and pain due to the unfitting design. Rollga is designed and contoured to fit your body and reach trigger points that are difficult to reach with an ordinary roller. Use code "emceemovement" to save 15% on your purchase of one. To learn more about dance education and career planning, visit www.emceemovement.com.

Kathryn Avery Myers is a dancer, fitness trainer, and model based in New York City.  As a former captain of the Brooklynettes Dance Team, she believes in the power of fitness to make you feel, operate, and love better. She is an Instructor with Obe Fitness which means you can take class with her from anywhere in the world. Kathryn shares her journey about overcoming self-doubt, establishing a powerful mindset - especially when it comes to auditions, and staying true to your values even when you're juggling life as a dancer. Check out her classes at Obe Fitness and use code "KATHRYN100" for a free month :) Conditioning and recovery is important for any dancer, which is why Melissa recommends the Rollga, a cross-directional foam roller designed to stabilize the hips, align the back, and increase range-of-motion. It's ideal for muscle recovery, fascial health, and functional restoration of movement. Ordinary foam rollers cause discomfort and pain due to the unfitting design. Rollga is designed and contoured to fit your body and reach trigger points that are difficult to reach with an ordinary roller. Use code "emceemovement" to save 15% on your purchase of one. To learn more about dance education and career planning, visit www.emceemovement.com.

Mr. Pedro, as his dancers call him, holds space near to my heart as he became Artistic Director of Southwest Virginia Ballet, my former dance studio. A native of Venezuela, he performed with Ballet Nacional of Caracas, New York Dance Theatre, and with Richmond Ballet. He coached, taught, and choreographed for the School of Richmond Ballet, Chesterfield Ballet School, and Wheelchair Miss Richmond. For 14 years he worked with the Minds in Motion program in Richmond, Charlottesville, Martinsville, Salem, and Roanoke City Schools. Beginning in 2012, he developed Dance Español for 4th graders in public schools. In 2013, he created a Ballet program for Roanoke City Middle Schools. He has brought SVB to be recognized locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. In 2009, he was awarded the Perry F. Kendig Award for Outstanding Performing Artist. In 2017, he received the Bransow Award in recognition of exceptional dedication and service to the Virginia Museum Community. He is a Resident Artist for Carilion Clinic Healing Art Program. He is a board member of Thursday Morning Music Club as Dance Chairman of Footnotes and Roanoke City Public School Education Foundation, Inc. Currently, Mr. Pedro and Southwest Virginia Ballet are preparing for the televised version of their Nutcracker via Blue Ridge PBS December 11 & 13th. He inspires dancers and educators to always explore, create, and unite through movement. Are you dragging through performance season, holidays, auditions, balancing academics and training? I definitely relied on caffeine to get me through some of my most intense periods of life, but when it started to wreak havoc on my adrenal system (i.e. what helps you manage/produce energy) I went off coffee cold-turkey. I was so happy when I found Mudwtr to replace for my morning beverage. MUDWTR™ is a coffee alternative consisting of organic ingredients lauded by cultures old and young for their health and performance benefits. With 1/7th the caffeine of coffee, mud gives you natural energy, focus and more without the jitters and crash. It tastes and smells delish! It provides clarity, calm, and focus which is just what I need to move through the day. Check it out: https://bit.ly/3g9eWc1 ! Be inspired, be Brave, be en pointe.

For twenty years, Anni Luneau has focused her passion for the performing arts in non-profit management through planned and individual giving, with an emphasis on strategic planning. Her background includes working for institutions such as New York City Ballet, the 92nd Street Y, The Joyce Theater, PEN America, and now as CEO of her own consulting firm assisting small non-profits and philanthropists in making sound donor decisions. She is also an adjunct professor at Baruch College. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors of Pilobolus. This episode shares her path into non-profit management, from receiving her B.A. in English and Dance at Keene State College, completing her Juris Doctor at The University of Connecticut School of Law, working as a teacher and establishing her expertise in fundraising. Anni shares her wisdom for anyone curious about considering a career in non-profit management or for young artists making decisions about hiring individuals to join their leadership team.

Neme Alperstein, a recently retired gifted education teacher of 28 years with the New York City Department of Education and partner teacher in The Joyce Theater's K-12 dance education program, shares her depth of co-curricular teaching and learning experience and her joyful tenacity in advancing educational standards. Her thirst for knowledge is ongoing as she is a doctoral student in Teaching and Learning with a specialization in Math, Science and Technology at Hofstra University. Additionally, she is a Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Teachers Network Mentor. She received a NASA Excellence in Teaching Award in 2010. Neme stresses the importance of being teachable, even while a teacher; leveraging collaboration for the benefit of all; and making the outrageous seem very possible.

Dr. Yoav Kaddar shares his perspective on finding your path in dance. He stresses the importance of valuing the fullness of a dance education - it offers way more than just technique class. His experience in dance began with folk dance which defined his role in shaping community whether as the current director of the WVU Dance Program, founding its Summer Dance Academy, or as president of the WV Dance Education Organization. He received his BFA in dance from The Juilliard School, his MFA in dance from University of Washington, and his PhD from the State University of New York. He has performed nationally and internationally as guest artist and has been a member of such modern dance companies as the Jose Limon Dance Company, Paul Taylor Dance Company, Pilobolus Dance Theatre, Peter Pucci Plus Dancers and Jacob's Pillow's Men Dancers. He has also danced with numerous independent choreographers and has choreographed for dance and theater. In this episode, he shares about developing and looking for spaces that will allow dancers to give their best while being challenged to new levels. He describes the joy of being part of a dancer's transformation or growth process and honoring the responsibility that comes with it. He encourages dancers and their parents to pay attention to the environment within which a dancer can thrive - including a willingness to let go of brand name appeal. Kaddar emphasizes the duality of maintaining big picture focus while contributing fully as an individual. Choosing the right program for you includes understanding the value of dance education - the fullness that it gives you beyond learning movement technique.

Be En Pointe host Melissa shares from her personal experience working for various organizational structures and how establishing value for herself translated to clarity in professional choices, improved compensation and working conditions. Ultimately, maintaining one's own value serves the value of the performing arts industry. If you haven't checked out Americans for the Arts' report on Arts & Economic prosperity, take a look now to see how arts and culture institutions generate revenue and investment in their local economies - unlike other corporations which can take their revenues elsewhere. Read more on her blog: https://www.emceemovement.com/blog

She's the kind of dancer that will stop you in your tracks with her intensity, magnetic presence, and technical ease. Sheree Harper is a freelance performer, choreographer, teaching artist, and proud member of Actors' Equity Association. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Dance from the University of Alabama and a Master's Degree in Dance from Florida State University. She has studied under artists such as Dwight Rhoden, Desmond Richardson, Suzanne Farrell, Gerri Houlihan, Cornelius Carter, and Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, to name a few. She served as an Ambassador for The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and danced with Jazz Roots Dance Company under Artistic Director Sue Samuels. She became an Equity dancer with the Walt Disney Company in Orlando, FL. During her time at Disney, she acquired a stunt double role for a lead actress in the ABC Television series remake of Charlie's Angels. She also became an inaugural member of ME Dance Company under the direction of Marshall Ellis. Most recently, she performed at The Black Music Honors alongside The Jacksons. She has taught dance in a range of settings including dance studios, public and performing arts schools, intensives/workshops, private lessons, churches, and collegiate programs. She has provided choreography for concert dance, liturgical dance, collegiate dance lines, plays, and show choirs. In this episode, Sheree shares her commitment to uplifting those around her through storytelling and movement with an emphasis on authenticity, honoring relationships, and being a forever student of her craft.  Learn more about Sheree: https://www.alyshiasheree.com/

Melissa shares her experiences moving through various performance and administrative roles. Promotions have purposeful meaning when they support your goals and values. Taking time to observe what the value system in place and at play in an organization will indicate where or how you'll find success (or not).

Barry Blumenfeld honors the joy and delight of moving with a dedication to creating spaces for students to express themselves. In this episode, he shares about integrity in dancemaking, defining one's own path, and boldly embracing challenge. He has been a dance educator in a wide range of environments from pre-schools, studios, public and private K-12 schools to universities, including American University, Gallaudet University and New York University. Barry is currently on the faculty of Friends Seminary School in Manhattan. He holds a BA in Psychology and an MA in Dance from American University and is a graduate of the Dance Education Laboratory of 92nd Street Y; a certified yoga instructor; and a Registered Dance Educator. Barry is president-elect of the NY State Dance Educators Association and was a recipient of their Outstanding PreK-12 Dance Educator Award in 2017. For 10 years, he was Artistic Director of TAPFUSION, a dance company combining modern dance and tap. Barry also started the Men in Dance group in NDEO and co-chaired the Men in Dance Symposium at WVU. In 2019, he received NDEO's Oustanding Leadership Award. He writes a monthly “Ask the Experts” column for Dance Teacher Magazine, as well. Resources referenced by Barry: 92Y Dance Education Laboratory: https://www.danceedlab.com/ New York State Dance Educators Association (NYSDEA): http://www.nysdea.org/ National Dance Education Organization: https://www.ndeo.org/content.aspx?page_id=0&club_id=893257 Men in Dance Special Interest Group: www.menindance.net Ann Hutchinson Guest: http://www.lodcusa.org/ Tina Curran: https://theatredance.utexas.edu/people/curran-tina Barbara Bashaw: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/faculty/bjb24/ Naima Prevots: https://www.ndeo.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=893257&module_id=355040 Dancemaker app: https://www.danceedlab.com/collaborations/del-app/

While not a dancer, Megan is no stranger to high performance environments and pressures. She was a D1 track and field athlete at Penn State from 2004-2008. Through the personal experience of an eating disorder along with a passion and education in positive body image and eating disorder awareness in athletics, Megan co-founded The F.L.Y. Movement which provides educational workshops to cultivate safe spaces for athletic teams to discuss body image, self-talk, social media & how that relates to one's sport. Her mission is to create transparency in the way one thinks and talks about body image and eating disorders in athletics.  Learn more about dance education training and career development: https://www.emceemovement.com/

What does it look like to establish safety and trust in a movement environment? Dancer, choreographer, and educator Rachel Rugh shares her process and experience with a perspective towards accessing agency, maintaining partnerships, and investing in one's creative practice. Learn more about Rachel: http://rachelrughdance.org/about-ba Questions about dance education and training? Visit https://www.emceemovement.com/.