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This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Serge Laurent, Director of Dance and Cultural Programs at Van Cleef & Arpels. Serge is in charge of implementing Dance Reflections, an international program supporting the art of choreography. Laurent's journey began with a classical education at the École de Louvre, specializing in Art History and Archeology. His career took him from being an Associate Curator at the Fondation Cartier to heading Live Performance Programming at the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
In this episode, Serge discusses his role at Van Cleef & Arpels, the historical connection between the Maison and the world of dance, and the importance of supporting dance creation, transmission, and education. He shares insights on the upcoming Dance Reflections festival in New York City, which will feature a diverse range of performances from contemporary dance companies. Serge also reflects on the significance of New York and Paris in the history of dance and the need for contemporary art to challenge and inspire audiences.
Moving Quotes:
"It's very important for me to forget about the notion of taste. I like it; I don't like it. I appreciate it; I like it less. Maybe we should just wonder about what we have seen, and consider the questions that come to our minds. To me, art is beyond the simple matter of taste."
"Believe in yourself, and never give up. Take risks. Also, don't be shy — be creative. I'm very, very attracted to creation. But at the same time, I need to be practical, pragmatic."
"Whatever we do [as artists] is an answer to three values. It's a way to enlighten these values. The first value is creation. The second one is transmission. And the third one is education… If [Van Cleef & Arpels] can support an artist’s training, their creation, and their presentation, we are really covering, you know, the three essential values.”
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:19: Serge explains how Van Cleef & Arpels' relationship with dance began as a source of inspiration for the Maison's creations, such as the ballerina clips and timepieces.
9:42: Laurent discusses the historical connection between Paris and New York in the development of modern and contemporary dance.
14:50: Serge shares his vision for the Dance Reflections program, focusing on the values of creation, transmission, and education.
22:27: Laurent reflects on how Van Cleef & Arpels stays relevant by combining heritage and creativity in their jewelry designs.
27:14: Serge discusses the positive feedback from audiences attending the Dance Reflections festivals and the importance of contemporary art provoking new sensations, impressions, and questions.
30:32: Laurent shares his educational background and career journey, from studying at the École de Louvre to working at the Fondation Cartier and Centre Pompidou.
35:38: Serge outlines his vision for the future of the Dance Reflections program, including supporting dance schools, training, and workshops for amateurs.
39:04: Laurent offers advice for those pursuing their dreams in the arts, emphasizing the need to combine creativity and pragmatism.
Bullet List of Resources –
Serge Laurent
Instagram
Van Cleef & Arpels
Company Website
Instagram
Dance Reflections Website
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This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Steven Melendez, Artistic Director at the New York Theatre Ballet. Steven’s journey with dance began through his current company’s LIFT Program, which teaches dance to homeless or home insecure youth. Steven has since danced as a Soloist and Principal dancer at a collection of ballet companies across three continents. Steven’s story is also explored in the award-winning film LIFT, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2022.
Steven’s life was changed because New York Theatre Ballet made the arts more accessible to New York City youth. Now, Steven is on a mission to take that mission even further. On the podcast, Steven retells his incredible transformation story, discusses the importance of diversity in the arts, and explains how making dance more accessible to all people benefits the dancer, the company, and society at large.
Moving Quotes:
"As an industry, we can get back to the root of what dance is. It's an art. Connecting human people with other human people. If we can get more people on stage that represent more diversity within society, I think our art will be stronger. And the industry will be stronger."
"What I call 'relevant art' is why I think being a dance company is not opposite from being a social justice organization. I think you can do both by having [sensitive] conversations in public."
"Through dance, we're all equal. The person who doesn't fall over is the person that practiced. It's not the person whose parents have a lot of money. It's not the person with a fancy house. It's not the person that's white or Spanish or whatever. It's the person that practiced. And I really liked that. It really spoke to me."
"Diversity needs to be a priority. The parts of an organization tasked with considering how to create more diversity in the industry can't be a department down the hall run by one or two people. It needs to be a fundamental element of what the administrative leadership are thinking about all the time."
"There are three ways to take over the world. First, through military might. Second, through owning everything or a critical resource. Or third, by being a good human. By getting people to understand that, fundamentally, you are the same as them... In a way, that's how I think about my work. The product that we create is bigger than the single performance."
"We need to do the work of educating and cultivating new adult dance audiences so that the young people who are involved actually have a future. It prevents dance from being ‘a thing they did one time’ and turns it into an inhabited part of who they are."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
2:20: Steven speaks to his responsibility as an artistic director in helping define the role of dance in future society.
6:23: Steven discusses the importance of diversity in the arts and how making the arts more accessible for all people is critical.
9:21: Melendez explains the main programs at the New York Theatre Ballet, including the company’s renowned LIFT program and new efforts aimed at young people.
14:42: Melendez discusses the company’s new efforts aimed at new-to-dance adult audiences and the importance of reaching out to this segment.
24:04: Steven describes a new multi-year project, aimed at exploring the dynamics between fathers and sons.
34:40: Steven walks through his dance journey and explains why he continued with dance once his own run with the LIFT program ended.
43:17: Melendez discusses his dreams for the New York Theatre Ballet in the coming years.
Bullet List of Resources –
Steven Melendez
Personal Website
Instagram
New York Theatre Ballet
Company Website
Instagram
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This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Kevin Jenkins, Founder and Artistic Director at Ballet Counterpointe. Kevin’s choreography, which Dance Magazine has praised as “riveting,” has been featured at dozens of dance companies, including State Street Ballet, SUNY Purchase, and San Diego Dance Theater. He has also served on faculty at Boston Ballet School, Joffrey Ballet School, and several other esteemed institutions.
Early in his dance journey, Kevin knew he had a passion for choreography. So he decided to take the plunge — to follow his passion, even if it didn’t “pan out” in the world’s eyes. Thankfully, Kevin has been successful, but he knows that’s not the story for everyone. Yet, even so, Jenkins believes following one’s passion is worth the risk. On the podcast, Jenkins talks all about passion, but sprinkles in some insight into choreography, social media, and building a business.
Moving Quotes:
"Choreography 'success' is not monetarily based. And while there are more things you can do to make more money at it, I think you still have to be realistic. It has to be about the art. Sometimes the income will follow, and sometimes it won't. And that's okay."
"The downside of interviews with successful artists is that you're hearing from interviews with people that have made it. And for every one person that made it, there are 99 people that didn't make it."
"I only recommend a career as choreographer if you are really really strong and really really ready for lot of hardship. Because it is incredible, but it is like climbing up a hill every day."
"Chasing what other choreographers do is okay to a certain extent. But, at the end of the day, you still have to find your unique voice and how you can do something original. Because that's what is going to make you stand out. That's the best chance you have."
"I'm fascinated by the business side of the arts because I think it is the future of the arts. If we can't pay for the arts, then they will die. So, while I love choreographing, the thing I think about most days is how do we keep this going."
"On social media, you have to believe in what you're putting out there. You have to be as true to your authentic self as you can be. Because, at this point, we can all smell someone who's phony."
"On social media, you have to strike a weird balance where you have to try to put something out there that will do well and, at the same time, not care if it does well and do what you believe in."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:16: Kevin discusses his company — Ballet Counterpointe — and how he grew to love the business side of the arts.
7:15: Kevin discusses the importance of corporate sponsorships and how they could be critical to the future of dance.
9:10: Kevin, a social media maven with six-figure Instagram followers, gives some practical advice on building a social media following.
11:59: Jenkins describes the origins of his company’s name and gives a brief history of his company’s performances.
15:29: Jenkins discusses the joys of working alongside his spouse, who is also a part of Ballet Counterpointe.
18:34: Kevin walks through his dance career, including his late start to the stage and his early affections for choreography.
24:37: Kevin advises aspiring choreographers to follow their passion, even if they don’t achieve much “success” as the world defines it.
29:31: Kevin offers some predictions on the future of the dance industry and how companies will need to adapt.
31:58: Jenkins discusses his aspirations for his own company in the next 3 to 5 years.
33:55: Kevin ends the discussion by encouraging listeners to chase their passions.
Bullet List of Resources –
Kevin Jenkins
InstagramBallet Counterpointe
Company Website Instagram -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Matz Skoog, executive coach at Matz Skoog Coaching. Skoog, a Stockholm native, had an accomplished career in dance at several international companies. Following his career in dance, he became a sought-after tutor, which led to a variety of professional appointments, including Artistic Director of the English National Ballet and Royal New Zealand Ballet. Upon his exit from the stage, Matz founded Matz Skoog Coaching, where he helps others achieve their true professional potential.
As a dancer and Artistic Director, Matz had a passion for helping others fulfill their goals and achieve new heights. Through coaching, he’s now able to do this professionally, on a daily basis. Matz is a wealth of knowledge and challenges his clients to find satisfaction and achieve excellence in their careers. On the podcast, Matz shares invaluable words of advice for anyone that’s looking to maximize their fullest potential.
Moving Quotes:
"Coaching is about 3 questions. What do you want? What do you need to do to get what you want? And what's stopping you from doing what you need to do?"
"Coaching is not therapy... In therapy, you take a person from being dysfunctional to becoming functional. In coaching, you take a person from being functional to becoming excellent."
"The ideal moment to look for a coach is when you are already successful or when things are working well. Because, then, you can take your achievements to another level."
"You don't need to be someone else in order to be successful. You need to do things differently; you don't need to be someone different. And in the act of doing, you become someone else."
"It's important to take a little bit of action, every day. It needs to be conscious — something you choose to do towards a specific objective."
"Once you're a dancer, you're always a dancer — even if you're not actually dancing. You will always be a dancer."
"Many dancers underestimate their intellectual capacities. There are very few successful dancers who are not also intelligent. One way to explore this potential is to express yourself through writing... That way, you can see, on paper, that there's more to you than just legs and feet."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:09: Matz describes his career as an executive coach and how he was drawn to the profession.
4:33: Matz explains how coaching is different than mentorship.
5:38: Skoog discusses the ideal time for an individual to seek out coaching.
7:52: Skoog shares some tips for finding the right executive coach for you.
12:47: Matz shares a helpful tip for anyone who may be looking for a career shift but isn’t even sure where to focus.
15:32: Matz gives some advice for executing on goals.
18:52: Matz walks through his dance career and how he segued into dance leadership and, eventually, executive coaching.
25:58: Skoog discusses some lessons he learned as an artistic director that he uses when coaching dancers into new careers.
28:11: Skoog explains how finding other hobbies and outlets outside of dance can help dancers find alternative career paths.
31:26: Matz shares some of his biggest coaching surprises, including several clients that made full career pivots after their sessions.
Bullet List of Resources –
Matz Skoog Coaching
Website LinkedIn Instagram YouTube -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Jeffrey Cirio, an internationally recognized ballet dancer who is currently dancing as Principal at Boston Ballet. Jeffrey also is co-founder and Artistic Director of his own company, Cirio Collective. Jeffrey has danced for American Ballet Theatre and the English National Ballet as Principal and Lead Principal, respectively. Jeffrey holds medals from competitions held across three different continents. His list of accolades is truly remarkable.
Jeffrey’s run as a professional dancer began at Boston Ballet. By his own account, he was living a dream and could have stayed with Boston forever. However, Jeffrey, who is a firm believer in expanding your horizons, decided to venture first to New York City then to Europe, picking up awards along the way. Now, he’s back in Boston, having come full circle, and claims that his world travels and new experiences built his character and made him a better dancer and human. On the podcast, Cirio recaps his incredible journey and speaks to the importance of venturing beyond your comfort zone.
Moving Quotes:
"Try every day to go 100 percent at what you do. And aspire to do new things — to step out of the boundaries of your comfort zone. Be willing to be in the discomfort for a little bit because discomfort creates character and endurance."
"The amount of exposure that I had to different companies — especially European companies and contemporary companies — was impactful for me... It's hard to say that I haven't been impacted by all of my travels."
"With any profession, you often have a love-hate relationship. There's always a love for what you do. There are always things you hate about it. And that's normal. And you'd be lying if you said you don't have a love-hate relationship with any work you do. There always have to be the pros and cons of anything."
"My parents always told me that, if I wanted to do something, I could do it. But I'd have to do it at 100 percent every day."
"Mentorship is a two-way street; it's a conversation between two people... It's a community, which means having people help each other through the good and the bad."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:35: Jeffrey discusses his company, Cirio Collective, including how it began and where he’d like to see the company move.
7:52: Jeffrey explains how his dance career started at Boston Ballet, took him around the world, and brought him back to Boston, full circle.
12:51: Cirio shares some takeaways from his world travels that have shaped him most into who he is now.
16:25: Cirio retells the story of how he came to be in dance and when he knew that ballet was going to be his livelihood.
19:58: Jeffrey discusses the thought process behind going directly from high school into a dance profession and how he convinced his parents to let him pursue this career.
21:55: Jeffrey explains how he managed time while apprenticing for a dance company during the day and finishing high school at night.
24:49: Cirio digs deep into the impact that mentors have had on his life and how he’s been strategic in choosing which mentors to take.
30:11: Jeffrey gets practical and shares some traveling tips for performers on the road.
32:44: Cirio, who has an affinity for ice baths, discusses their benefits and why he’s incorporated this practice into his normal routine.
35:14: Jeffrey discusses what’s next for him as a performer, artistic director, and entrepreneur.
Bullet List of Resources –
Jeffrey Cirio
Instagram LinkedIn Wikipedia
Cirio Collective
Company Website YouTube Instagram -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Kristin Draucker, a veteran dancer and choreographer who is currently performing with the Paul Taylor Dance Company. As a long-time New York City resident, she has danced with a variety of well-known companies in the area. Draucker began creating original works in 2014 and has shown her choreography both nationally and internationally at various companies and festivals. In 2017, she joined Paul Taylor Dance Company, where she currently performs.
Kristin’s story is a compelling tale of obstacles and perseverance. From the start, Kristin’s road into the dance world was nontraditional; she took her first dance lessons at age 15. As if this late start didn’t hold its own challenges, Kristin’s journey to eventually joining her dream company — Paul Taylor Dance Company — was a process that took ten long years, with three rejections and one final success. Kristin’s grit and drive is an inspiration, and, on the podcast, Kristin shares some rich perspective on the nature of rejection, the value of perseverance, and the love of dance.
Moving Quotes:
"There was never another option [than dance]. It was the only thing I wanted to do. It's pure pleasure — even when it hurts, it's pure pleasure. It was all worth it. And it still is, every day. There's nothing else I'm interested in doing.”
"If you open yourself up to many different forms of art, your worldview and artistry widens."
"All teachers aren't the same. All teachers can be wonderful, but they may not speak to you the way that you need something given... Being particular about who guides you is important as a young dancer."
"Rejection is rough. But sometimes I think you just know within yourself that you have a story to tell."
"One of the most important things you can do as a dancer is to find people that you trust. Teachers you trust. Choreographers you trust. They're going to be the people who are going to shape you."
"I was good at school, but I was so bored at school. Sitting at a desk is not a thing I want to do. Being at a computer is not a thing I want to do. Being in the theater was something I actually wanted to be a part of."
"Rejection is not a rejection of you as not being a good artist. It's a rejection, in that you were not the right person at that moment. And that doesn't mean you won't be the right person in the future."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
2:58: Kristin explains why and how the dance company she’s with — Paul Taylor Dance Company — doesn’t have rankings within the company.
4:51: Kristin walks through her journey of choosing Paul Taylor Dance Company, which involved fair amounts of rejection and perseverance.
7:41: Draucker shares some rich perspective on handling rejection in dance.
10:54: Draucker shares some practical tips for dancers on dealing with the physical toll of touring.
14:11: Kristin discusses her original choreography work and why she’s decided to put that work temporarily on hold.
18:29: Kristin walks through her dance journey and highlights inflection points where she knew dance was going to be her life’s chosen path.
24:33: Draucker explains how she overcame her many obstacles on her journey to professional dance.
31:10: Kristin discusses her joy at being able to perform live again, post-pandemic.
34:07: In closing, Kristin shares two pieces of advice for any dancers looking to broaden their skillset.
Bullet List of Resources –
Kristin Draucker
Instagram LinkedIn
Paul Taylor Dance Company
Company Website YouTube Facebook Instagram -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Julianna Rubio Slager, Artistic Director at Ballet 5:8. Slager, who is originally from Michigan, studied under many renown global dance experts and teachers. Upon moving to Chicago, Slager had the opportunity to work as a freelance artist, teacher, and choreographer in the Greater Chicago area. Eventually, she co-founded Ballet 5:8 in 2012. Ballet 5:8 just had its 10th anniversary and has grown immensely. It now has a professional company of 20 dancers and a school of over 400 dancers of all ages. Ballet 5:8 also has a touring company that tours 32 weeks every year.
Julianna’s hope is that her leadership and creative work at Ballet 5:8 will pave the way for other women and minorities in professional ballet — a mission that she is achieving! However, Julianna would be the first to admit that she can’t “do it all” and that the key to good leadership is delegation — finding your “zone of genius” and delegating your weak spots out to others who are strong in those areas. On the podcast, Julianna talks all things Ballet 5:8 and shares some great leadership tips on admitting weakness and equipping others to take over where you’re weak.
Moving Quotes:
"For me, the biggest thing I learned about running a business is realizing what I'm gifted in. And, honestly, what I'm not. Because I'm not good at everything."
"Creativity is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration."
"Take small steps every day. Sometimes we overestimate what we can do in one day. And we underestimate what we can do in one year."
"As women leaders, we all feel sometimes like we're talked down to by people who may not feel that, as a woman, we're not capable of running an organization at this high of a level. But you have to always stay true to your inner voice and know who you are. And, very kindly, move past those people... Because they are not your people."
[On diversity in dance] "When you understand that you have a different perspective and you come from a different cultural background than the people around you, it allows you to share that part of you in such a special way through dance."
"If you're going to go into dance as a career, you don't want to do it with any sort of hesitancy or fear. If you do that, you can't put your full self into the auditioning process. Auditioning is brutal."
"You have a long life. You don't just have to pick one career... You just can't do it all at the same time."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:22: Julianna gives a high-level overview of Ballet 5:8, including all of their unique endeavors.
4:45: Julianna discusses how Ballet 5:8 continues to perform at an extremely high-level, even while their programs are so far reaching.
6:20: Julianna shares some advice for current or aspiring studio owners, including some words on the value of delegation and finding your “zone of genius.”
8:15: Slager discusses her studio’s deep relationships with other players in the Chicago arts scene.
11:15: Slager, who is herself a seasoned choreographer, gives some rich tips for anyone looking to choreograph — including some great tips for anyone in a creative slump.
14:43: Julianna takes some time to discuss her own dance journey and how she came to fully appreciate her cultural heritage.
20:23: Julianna gives some advice for any dancers weighing out the decision of whether to pursue higher education or dance full-time.
26:02: Slager explains her work in empowering women and underrepresented minorities through her work at Ballet 5:8.
30:17: Julianna casts some vision for the future of her studio.
32:55: Julianna shares some final advice around keeping a healthy perspective and playing the long game.
Bullet List of Resources –
Julianna Rubio Slager
LinkedIn
Ballet 5:8
Company Website YouTube Facebook Twitter Instagram TikTok -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Joseph Morrissey, Director of Dance at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. Prior to this role, he served in a similar role with the Hong Kong Ballet. As a professional dancer, he danced with the Bavarian State Ballet in Munich and the Boston Ballet II. He’s a seasoned choreographer and also has instructed for various dance companies, including the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company. He also currently serves on the juries for the Youth America Grand Prix, the International Baltic Ballet Competition, and the Japan Grand Prix.
Joseph’s resume is impressive, but above all else, Joseph is a leader — a calling that he considers a privilege. And one of the things that Joseph most tries to do in his work at Interlochen is to use arts to impart leadership skills to his students. On the podcast, Joseph talks all things Interlochen but deep dives on what makes for good leaders, the challenges and joys of leadership, and how he’s raising up the next generation of arts leaders.
Moving Quotes:
"It's a privilege for me to lead. Thankfully, that calling aligns with what my 'job' is."
"There's no one way [to arts leadership] ... Recognizing that truth makes for a better leadership style."
"I always encourage dancers to think 'outside the box' of just the career as a performer ... There really is no 'one way street' to the ultimate destination of how dance will be a part of one's life."
"Making tough decisions is not always fun. But it's important that there's always something in hindsight or something to look forward to."
"When doing a capital campaign or if you're looking to build a structure, think of the bigger picture and dream big. And inevitably it will happen."
"Sometimes, we learn a lot of 'do's,' but we also learn a lot of the 'don’ts' ... It's the combination of those learning lessons that make for a fun and competent leader."
"That's what makes [Interlocken] even more remarkable. Even in the midst of a pandemic, we still built this fabulous building. We still have high enrollment. We still have garnered excitement and interest in the program overall. I marvel at that."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:32: Joseph gives some information about Interlochen, including any new or existing programs the school offers.
6:30: Joseph explains why he believes his school has undergone such drastic growth over the past few years.
9:10: Joseph, who just completed a building campaign, shares some advice on convincing authority figures that certain efforts are worth the investment.
13:54: Morrissey explains how he equips his current dance students to become future leaders.
19:43: Morrissey discusses the importance of mentorship and how it often pays to be proactive in identifying students to mentor.
22:31: Joseph shares some wise words for any dancers that are currently planning out their futures.
27:30: Joseph explains the importance of stepping outside of the stage performance “box” and experiencing the arts from different angles and roles.
31:12: Joseph, who is a renown choreographer, reflects on his biggest takeaways over his illustrious choreography career.
36:13: Morrissey discusses the most challenging thing he must do as Interlochen’s director.
40:00: Joseph looks to the future and discusses what’s next for Interlochen.
Bullet List of Resources –
Joseph Morrissey
Bio on Interlochen site “Meet your Faculty” video
Interlochen Center for the Arts
Company Website YouTube Facebook Twitter Instagram -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Jess Spinner, entrepreneur and holistic health coach at The Whole Dancer. Jess holds a bachelor’s degree from Butler University in Dance and Arts Administration. Upon graduation, she danced with the Louisville Ballet and did some professional work as a freelancer in Boston. Now, Jess’s life mission is to support dancers in finding a personal balance in their approach to food and their bodies.
As a former professional dancer that struggled with body image issues, Jess knows the physical, mental, and emotional grind of dance. And, now looking back, Jess firmly believes that if she put more focus on taking care of herself off the dance floor, she’d have been an even better performer on the dance floor. On the podcast, Jess explains how she’s now helping other dancers see that truth and discusses the joy she finds in seeing lives changed and dreams renewed.
Moving Quotes:
"When dancers say to me, 'It feels like you're reading my mind,' it's because I've been in exactly that place. You're in the studio or elsewhere and all you can think about is the size of your thighs or how much skinnier the girl next to you is."
"I'm a firm believe that, wherever life takes you, there's something to be learned or gained."
"I've had a number of dancers now say to me, 'I think I would have quit dancing if I hadn't worked with you.' This was my journey too. You can get into such a negative headspace... It gets you to a place where it's no longer fun."
"So much of my dance journey from the time I was quite young became negative and hyperfocused on my body. To now be able to help dancers see a different path is hugely rewarding."
"In starting my business, from the beginning, I was steadfast. This is what I am going to do. I'm going to make it work. I'm going to make it work for myself. And then I refused to give up."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:15: Jess describes her company — The Whole Dancer — and the types of services that it offers.
5:55: Jess discussed “the whole you” — the idea of holistic dancer health that is the foundation of her company.
8:02: Spinner gives some advice for anyone looking to explore life beyond the dance floor who may be feeling guilty for spending free time away from practice.
9:26: Jess shares what she would consider to be a “client success story” for anyone who has gone through her program.
13:00: Spinner explains why she decided to become an entrepreneur and is honest about challenges she’s encountered along the way.
16:19: Spinner recounts some times where, as an entrepreneur, she was tempted to give up but explains how she managed to persevere.
20:24: Jess explains her decision to work with a business coach and how to find one to work with your unique situation.
24:50: Spinner describes where she hopes to see her company in 5 years.
26:58: Jess walks through her dance career and how her own body image issues equipped her to help other dancers along their journeys.
31:17: As she recounts her own dance journey, Spinner shares some sage advice for dancers who are actively pursuing their dreams.
Bullet List of Resources –
Jess Spinner
LinkedIn
The Whole Dancer
Company Website YouTube Facebook Twitter Instagram -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Liz Bayley, a seasoned professional dancer whose interest in sports injuries birthed a career as a physiotherapist for some of the world’s top shows. Liz was a professional dancer for 15 years, performing all over the world. Liz went on to work as a physiotherapist in the West End on shows such as Hamilton, Wicked, The Wizard of Oz, Singing in the Rain, Shrek, Matilda, and Jersey Boys. Liz holds a master’s degree in physiotherapy from King’s College and, now, serves as the physio for The Lion King. She also owns her own private practice.
Liz Bayley loves dance and dancers. In fact, on the podcast, she expresses love for both the artists and the artform multiple times. However, in her own career, her love for dance was inhibited by her experience with lingering injuries. Now, Liz is in the business of elevating others’ love for the craft by teaching them to take care of their bodies. On the podcast, Liz discusses her current endeavors and shares some extremely practical advice on how to prime your body to do the hard work of dance.
Moving Quotes:
”What I liked about physical therapy was that it was still helping people. But rather than the mental health, it was the physical health. And as it turns out, there’s lots of psychology in physiotherapy. So my [psychology degree] does really complement my final career choice really beautifully.”
”Dancers are known for being fit and healthy. And, in general, they are compared to the average office worker. But for what they do, they’re probably not as fit as they should be.”
”Dancers must supplement their dance training with cardiovascular work — high intensity training … Try to think more like a sports person. What do they do for their training? They tend to do agility work. High intensity cardiovascular work. Strength training in the gym.”
”There’s a lack of education, generally, around what it takes to really be strong enough to be a performer.”
”One of the best things about working with dancers? I adore the people. They’ve got lovely energy. They’re very empathic and emotional. They tend to be very kind and very funny, which I love.”
”I’m not at all afraid of change. I’ve never worried about making a decision and it potentially being the wrong one. Because I always feel like you can change it.”
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:19: Liz discusses why she pivoted from a 15 year career in dance into physiotherapy.
5:22: Liz explains what her current career as a physiotherapist looks like, including her run as a physiotherapist on multiple Broadway productions in London.
7:21: Bayley explains why some dancers get injured more often than others.
11:40: Liz shares some advice for dancers on how to better avoid injuries, including some pre-show exercises and practices.
15:40: Bayley explains how dancers can avoid getting bulky through weightlifting.
18:50: Liz discusses how her professional career would be different if she were to do it again, knowing what she knows now.
22:35: Liz describes the importance of mental health in athletes but, specifically, for dancers and performers.
24:45: Bayley explains her rationale behind some key decisions she made as a dancer.
29:16: Bayley looks ahead in her career and discusses her excitement as she moves into more of a teaching role.
31:22: Liz encourages dancers to love what they do even more by taking care of their bodies.
Bullet List of Resources –
Liz Bayley
LinkedIn Instagram Twitter
Liz Bayley Physiotherapy
Company Website -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews David Leventhal, Program Director at Dance for PD — a part of the Mark Morris Dance Group. Through the program — which is on its 20th year — David teaches dance classes for people living with Parkinson’s disease and trains other teaching artists to do the same. What started as a humble six-person dance class has now grown to serve 300 communities across 30 different countries. David has received numerous humanitarian awards for his work and has contributed to several books and peer-reviewed studies on dance and Parkinson’s Disease.
David is a true believer in the healing power of dance and is proactively teaching others to also believe. There’s a reason why his course has exploded over the past 20 years — the effect of dance on those with Parkinson’s Disease is simply too great to deny. On the podcast, David gives a brief history of Dance for PD and explains why he believes music and movement has a profound impact on all people — but especially on those with Parkinson’s.
Moving Quotes:
”It’s that combination of the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional — together, inseparable — that makes dance such a powerful tool to maintain wellbeing and quality of life for everybody. But, particularly, for people with Parkinson’s.”
“Dance and dancers have a significant role in maintaining and improving quality of life among our older neighbors — and, in our case, among people with Parkinson’s.”
”In our classes, we’re not there to teach a therapy session. We’re not there to talk about Parkinson’s. We’re there to address movement as dancers. And it’s helpful for people with Parkinson’s to think about movement the way that dancers do.”
”Music is like a red carpet that rolls out in front of you. Dance and music together are a red carpet that provides a roadmap for people with Parkinson’s to move.”
”Keep your eyes open for opportunities that interest you.”
”Follow your passions. Multiple passions. Sometimes dancers get trapped in that one passion. As much as you love dance and are committed to it, keep thinking about other things that interest you… Keep nurturing those other passions while you’re still dancing.”
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
2:49: David discusses the joy of leading a program that’s going on its 20th year and the role of dance in helping those with Parkinson’s Disease.
5:19: David gives a brief history of his program and details what’s involved.
10:19: Leventhal explains the events that led to his company growing from a small 6-person class to a global network.
14:03: David describes the three distinct groups of people that have been integral to the program’s growth.
18:30: Leventhal gives his theories on why music and movement are uniquely effective versus traditional therapy methods.
25:56: David describes how his Dance for PD courses are both similar and different from country-to-country.
31:25: Leventhal, who holds a nontraditional career in dance, gives some advice for anyone pursuing a career in dance that’s away from the stage.
37:12: David discusses the future for Dance for PD and how he’d like the company to become more accessible in many different ways.
Bullet List of Resources –
David Leventhal
LinkedIn
Dance for PD
Company Website Twitter Facebook -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Margeaux McCarthy, Owner of the Dance Xchange App, LLC. Margeaux is a former professional hip hop dancer with credits in commercials for some of the world’s biggest brands. After she retired from the stage, McCarthy became a real estate sales advisor by day and a dance instructor by night. With a love for resale apps such as eBay, McCarthy saw a need to create a platform like Dance Xchange — a resell app for dancewear, created for dancers by dancers. For driven individuals like Margeaux, a career pivot is a relatively common occurrence — always looking for the next new challenge. Being willing to take that risk, with the hope of reward — whether intrinsic, external, or both. But this doesn’t make a career pivot any less difficult. On the podcast, Margeaux discusses what drove her to take the plunge as a tech entrepreneur, shares advice she wishes she’d have known when she set out, gives some know-how on building an app and engaging with developers, and so much more.
Moving Quotes:
"If I could give my younger self advice, I'd say, 'Keep going.' You have that idea. Just keep going with it."
"[When starting a business,] you know that it's all going to pay off one day. You have your business plan. You have your structure. You just have to keep following through. And it will eventually pay off. It's just a matter of seeing that in the future."
"In my head I had always said, 'Somebody else is going to do [this idea] if you don't.' Everybody has an idea, so someone else is thinking this also. Whether or not you put your foot to the pedal — that's up to you."
"You learn better when you learn it yourself. You fall harder, but you get back up faster."
"It's so important to reach out to people who have gone before. Get a mentor. I personally did not have a mentor, and if I did, I feel like I would have been much better off."
"It's good to have [a mentor] who can remind you to do things locally and not on such a big scale... If you are good to your inner circle, they will be good to you."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:00 Margeaux describes her digital dancewear marketplace platform — Dance Xchange — and explains how she ended up pursuing this idea while in real estate.
8:39 Margeaux describes how Dance Xchange is going so far and discusses her ultimate vision for the platform.
10:05 McCarthy outlines her journey as an entrepreneur in the tech space, having no background in tech prior to this experience.
14:37 Margeaux discusses her biggest challenge and her biggest surprise throughout the entire process with Dance Xchange.
17:09 McCarthy explains the demographic that she’s generally targeting with Dance Xchange and discusses the nuances of marketing to these two distinct audiences.
20:29 McCarthy gives some important advice to her younger self.
23:54 Margeaux speaks to the importance of having a mentor, especially when navigating a new or unfamiliar space.
26:41 McCarthy discusses the Dance Xchange Scholarship Fund — a nonprofit effort she’s launching in association with Dance Xchange.
29:05 Margeaux describes a second project she’s been recently working on that combines her love for dance with her experience in real estate.
Bullet List of Resources –
Margeaux McCarthy
Instagram YouTube LinkedIn
Dance Xchange
Company Website Instagram Facebook -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Alisa Finney, Principal at The Gay Wightman School of Ballet, Artistic Director at The Melbourne Ballet Company, and a mentor through the Dance Studio Owners Association (DSOA). Alisa has also crafted a 13-level classical ballet system of training that is widely used by thousands of dancers across the globe. Through the pandemic, Alisa’s reach has grown exponentially, as she has heavily used Zoom to expand the size of her dance classes.
Alisa is one who wears many hats, but at the end of the day, her passion is for the artform of ballet. And Alisa understands that the future of the artform is in the hands of studio owners, who are training the next generation of ballet dancers. In turn, Alisa invests large amounts of time and energy in developing studio owners so that they’re well-equipped to be mentors, teachers, role models, and entrepreneurs. On the podcast, hear about all of Alisa’s work and lessons learned in her own business growth.
Moving Quotes:
"I'm very passionate about the art form of ballet, and now that I have a little bit of experience behind me and am a bit older, I'm just really passionate about giving back to the industry and sharing what I've learned... It fills my cup to help people."
[On mentorship] "It's a hard job running a studio. And we wear 50 different hats, always. Trying to be everything to everyone. So it's important to have someone that we can go to that can support us. That can answer our questions and celebrate our wins and hold us accountable."
"The way you do anything is the way you do everything."
"As the studio owner, you need to be clear on things like: what is your mission? What are the core values of your studio? It's great to hash those things out with your team."
"I really like my goals to be big and quite scary. I think they should give you butterflies in your tummy. And then work backwards to figure out how you're going to make it happen."
[During the pandemic,] “I worked with a mindset coach once a week. I think that was a huge reason that I was able to stay so positive and be super positive with my team."
"If you're a business owner, you need to know your 'why.' What are your goals? What do you want to achieve financially?"
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:22: Alisa discusses how the pandemic actually caused her studio to grow exponentially.
7:48: Alisa explains how a positive mindset separates herself from many other studio owners and drove to her overwhelming success during the pandemic.
14:06: Alisa describes her passion for the artform of ballet and why she now finds joy sharing her knowledge with others.
16:09: Finney explains one of the most important things that a studio owner can do.
18:26: Finney describes her work with the Dance Studio Owner Association (DSOA).
20:45: Finney, who has worked with many global studio owners, discusses the one obstacle that she often sees inhibiting dance studio owners’ success.
23:43: Alisa explains the importance of small businesses having clear and impactful mission statements.
27:30: Alisa describes her process when prioritizing tasks and setting goals.
28:12: Alisa discusses one tangible way that mentorship has impacted her life.
32:31: Finney, who works with a wide variety of international dance studios, discusses some unique differences between dance studio cultures country-to-country.
Bullet List of Resources –
Alisa Finney
LinkedIn
The Gay Wightman School of Ballet
Company Website Instagram Facebook -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Angela Martindale, a female entrepreneur, public speaker, lifestyle expert, and influencer who is known globally for her fitness training techniques and methods, her inspirational public speaking, her lifestyle coaching, and her work with charitable organizations. Angela has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX affiliates and has worked with many A-list celebrities, Olympic athletes, and business moguls as their personal trainer and nutritionist.
Core to Angela’s inspirational message is the idea of self-love. In fact, Angela believes that the one thing that separates those who win from those who fold is a healthy self-talk — a belief in yourself. A belief that you are enough. Angela, who was bullied as a child, learned very early that a healthy self-esteem can not only pull you out of the pit but can also set you on a path to success. On the podcast, Angela tells her inspiring story and discusses how her successful career has been paved with healthy, positive affirmations.
Moving Quotes:
"Self-talk is very important. Everything starts with 'I am.' 'I am Angela Martindale. I am beautiful. I am successful.' Those two words — 'I am' — are the two most important words you can say to yourself. And it radiates out into the universe."
"When starting a business, be authentic. Be true to yourself... It has to be about what you're about. And every single person has that niche. That something that they love."
"The mind and a healthy self-talk separates Olympic athletes from regular athletes."
"I always tell my young dancers — the less processed foods that you can consume, the better... This body requires fuel. Really good, top-level fuel every day."
"When starting a business, don't overextend yourself. With money. With time. With energy. Keep very steady — slow and steady. Businesses take time. People don't become famous overnight."
"If you want to succeed as an entrepreneur, latch onto a mentor. Get someone who can help you through those first processes or marketing thoughts and ideas. Hire someone. Ask someone in your sphere of influence. Because you can't do business alone."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:42: Angela discusses her current role and shares some advice on staying in shape.
8:05: Angela, a serial entrepreneur who has launched multiple successful brands, retells the origin stories of some of her brands.
12:00: Angela gives some advice for entrepreneurs looking to identify niche markets for their products.
13:32: Martindale, who was bullied as a young person, discusses how she was able to overcome negativity and lead a life of success.
17:40: Martindale shares some advice for small businesses on taking strategic plans and putting them into action.
21:55: Angela discusses the value of mentors and the importance of acting fast and avoiding procrastination.
24:14: Angela unveils the single characteristic that separates entrepreneurs who succeed from those who fold.
27:14: Martindale, who has established several product-based businesses, explains the common starting points for getting those businesses off the ground.
30:49: Martindale discusses the incredible power of vision boards and writing down goals and aspirations.
39:23: Angela shares what’s next for her in her incredible life and career.
Bullet List of Resources –
Angela Martindale
I Am Angela Martindale website Facebook LinkedIn -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Tony Bordonaro and Ingrid Kapteyn, Co-Artistic Directors at Welcome to Campfire — an experiential dance platform that merges dance and theater to immerse performers and audiences into incredible dystopian settings. Tony and Ingrid first met while performing in Sleep No More NYC in 2013. After a run of the show in Shanghai, the two went on to develop four evening-length immersive dance experiences that have spanned New York City and Shanghai. The company’s name is derived from its first danceplay, titled CAMPFIRE.
Tony and Ingrid are addicted to the thrill of acting on an idea — of feeling an instinct, getting into a room, and putting skin on the bones. After all, their entire dance company started as an idea inspired by the raw reality of Shanghai — a novel idea that took an artform traditionally defined by a stage and dropped it into a nontraditional setting, effectively shattering the mythological “fourth wall.” On the podcast, Tony and Ingrid retell the Welcome to Campfire origin story and hope it inspires others to act on ideas and push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Moving Quotes:
"Dancers can wear so many hats. And, as a dancer, when you have an idea, the idea tells you what to do. They key is to show up, go into the room, and do the work of making and dancing and doing. And everything else follows."
"[With Welcome to Campfire], people can expect to have an experience that's up close. An experience that definitely feels like they're an active participant... We invite audience members to be in the world with us. To experience that intimacy, one-on-one."
"With our most recent piece, we've asked, 'Have we bitten off more than we can chew?' And we've just had to trust in the work we were doing. I like to call it 'following charm.' To think, 'This is what feels right. This is what feels good. Let's go in this direction.' And, since COVID, we've learned to constantly redirect if things aren't working."
"When you don't know, you can listen to your body. It will tell you."
"When you're performing is the time in life that you can be the most present. Because you can't think about anything else. You can only do what you're doing."
"Something that happens so often when I see auditions that are successful is that it's the people who are the best at being themselves that travel far… Mindfulness is a tool to use in uncovering what it is that you do that no one else can do.”
"Young dancers especially need to figure out a way to connect and take care of their spirits and their minds, as well as their physical bodies. So that they can deal with all of this craziness that comes with life as an artist."
“Dance has been a ticket to the world.”
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:16: Tony and Ingrid describe their dance company — Welcome to Campfire — and how their name came to be.
5:32: The two explain how Shanghai served as an inspiration for their first piece that was choreographed inside of a post-apocalyptic, abandoned office building.
7:10: Welcome to Campfire, which started in Shanghai, has since moved back to Manhattan. Tony and Ingrid tell audiences what they can expect from its shows.
10:06: Tony and Ingrid discuss their newest project, Subject.
12:41: The duo each discuss their own individual journeys in dance.
18:19: Tony and Ingrid share some advice on how to stand out during auditions, and Tony gives a peak at his audition-day routine.
22:07: Ingrid explains how her choreography has historically come to life and how acting on ideas is key to making art.
25:38: The two discuss how COVID taught them some valuable lessons about flexibility and creativity.
31:07: Ingrid and Tony elaborate on their definitions of “success” and what a success for Welcome to Campfire would look like in five years.
34:40: Tony and Ingrid give some parting advice for any aspiring dancers who are listening to the podcast.
Bullet List of Resources –
Tony Bordonaro
Personal Website Instagram YouTube Facebook LinkedInIngrid Kapteyn
Instagram Facebook LinkedInWelcome to Campfire
Company Website Instagram Facebook -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Joanna Wozniak, Senior Consultant at HBR Consulting and former ballerina with the Joffrey Ballet. Joanna, whose run with the Joffrey started as a seasonal artist in 2001, went on to enjoy a two-decades-long career with the esteemed Chicago dance company. In 2009, Point Magazine named one of her performances as one of their “12 favorite performances of 2009,” and she can also be seen as a dancer in the feature film Save the Last Dance.
Outside of dance, Wozniak holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Northwestern University and a master’s degree in business analytics from the University of Chicago — two of the world’s top universities. Having held accomplished careers both on and off the stage, Joanna holds a unique perspective on the value of the “Plan B” and how to navigate the pursuit of education, while juggling the responsibilities of professional dance. On the podcast, Joanna discusses all of this and more as she recounts her journey from the ballet to the board room.
Moving Quotes:
"Having additional passions and drives and not becoming siloed in dance is extremely critical... All of these things are only going to inspire you to be a better dancer."
"Don't dump a lot of money into education for an area that you don't actually want to go into... And I don't think a person is the same at 20 as they are at 35. You must be in line with what it is you're passionate about."
"Going to school while dancing is a huge transition... Your first few years in a company, you may just want to wait and adapt before going to school... Education today is a lot more fluid and flexible, with online and distance learning options."
"The past couple of years have been such a critical time for many people in the arts and in dance to reflect on what they're doing with their lives and where they're going. And what types of possibilities are open. It's a natural leverage that COVID has had on us."
"There are some characteristics that we, as dancers, carry as people. And that would be your drive and ambition. Your tenacity. Your willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve and accomplish your goals. Lots of people would love their employees to have these skills."
"Dance is not about the individual at all. It's all about the team and everyone who is collaborating with you. There is so much more going on than what is seen on stage."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:41: Joanna starts the conversation by retelling some highlights from her accomplished dance career.
5:46: Joanna describes some skills attained through dance that have elevated her career as a consultant.
8:36: Wozniak explains how dance taught her to be a good team player — a skill she uses daily in her consulting career.
10:39: Joanna recounts some of her most memorable moments as a professional ballerina.
12:09: Wozniak briefly retells the story of being called upon to dance in the feature film Save the Last Dance.
13:30: Joanna – who received degrees from some of the world’s top universities – discusses her decision to pursue higher education and the challenges of juggling school and dance.
18:03: Joanna gives some incredible practical advice around finding which degree is right for you when pursuing higher education.
21:55: Joanna reflects on the biggest surprises of the corporate world, after transitioning from the extremely active dance world.
26:20: Wozniak shares some tips on when to pursue more education while professionally dancing.
29:29: Joanna gives some advice for parents, encouraging their children to pursue their dance passions while also pushing for a “Plan B.”
Bullet List of Resources –
Joanna Wozniak
LinkedIn -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Elisabeth Motley, an award-winning, Brooklyn-based choreographer, scholar, and teacher, who is using her platform to make dance accessible to all. Motley — who holds a BFA from the Juilliard School and an MFA from Goddard College — has focused her work on neurodivergence, crip theory, and disability as choreographic sites. Elisabeth also currently teaches choreography at a New York City-based university, while pursuing her Ph.D. at a UK-based university.
Elisabeth’s work has garnered vast amounts of praise — her work has won several awards and been featured in numerous dance and arts festivals. Elisabeth has focused her life on harnessing the inherent creativity in disability and bringing it to the stage. And her own story is just as inspiring as her world-changing work. On the podcast, Motley walks through her entire journey of peaks and valleys and helps audiences gain a new way of thinking about disability and the arts.
Moving Quotes:
"The world has been ready to embrace difference for a long time. People are thinking about the beauty of difference, and it's becoming more a part of our cultural discussion."
"First thought, best thought... Trust your instincts. Follow your intuition. Follow your passion and your desire."
"What is the inherent creativity that is a part of adversity? That is a part of challenge? Because it's there. And it's definitely there in the disabled community."
"Being told 'no' is not an invitation to stop.”
"I'm hoping to impart new knowledge into the field of disability studies. I'm hoping to offer new models and procedures for creativity. But I'm not attempting to measure anything, specifically because measurement systems within the medical community can be really damaging for disabled people." "The dance field is not a straight upward trajectory. There are so many ups and downs. It's been helpful to think about how I'm charting my own unique path — my own unique journey."
"I've always believed that there's a meaning behind my experiences... There's been a sense of 'I need to make meaning of this situation' ... There's always been this mantra for me that I need to make my own meaning — to figure out how this is going to help me survive this disability. And integrating challenges and adversity into my life became important as well. How is this a part of who I am, rather than pushing it away."
"I don't like to think about Plan B. But, rather, multiplicity. I asked myself, 'How can I know a lot? How can I get lots of options?'"
"I think internships are really wonderful. Because you build community with people you wouldn't anticipate building community with. Which broadens your career potential, really."
"The dance field is not a straight upward trajectory. There are so many ups and downs. It's been helpful to think about how I'm charting my own unique path — my own unique journey."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:21: Elisabeth discusses the PhD that she is pursuing and her research on disability and neurodivergence in dance.
4:55: Elisabeth explains how disability is an enabler of creativity and how her research is offering a new way of thinking about disability in the arts.
9:37: Motley shares her optimism at the broader acceptance of disability and difference in today’s culture and society.
11:38: Motley walks through her dance career and educational choices and shares some advice on finding your own way.
15:51: Elisabeth, whose story is one of resilience, shares her thought process through all her journey’s ups and downs.
21:41: Elisabeth discusses her decisions to pursue different types of degrees and internships and describes the value of diversifying skills.
25:53: Motley explains what she is most proud of.
27:32: Motley gives a sneak peak of some upcoming projects and what’s next in her journey.
28:56: Elisabeth shares some sage advice that she constantly tells her students.
Bullet List of Resources –
Elisabeth Motley
Personal Website Instagram Facebook -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Flor Aracama and Nico Busso of DuoRings. Flor and Nico’s unique creation — DuoRings. — is a unique aerial rings duo which combines gymnastics athleticism and performance and, since 2016, has been regularly featured on tour with Cirque de Soleil. After spending a decade together on the Argentinian national gymnastics team, Flor and Nico got married and kickstarted their acrobatics duo. When not on tour or in residency with Cirque, Flor and Nico live in Rome, Italy.
Cirque du Soleil is one of the greatest arts achievements of the last century, and, this week, listeners get the unique treat of hearing how a pair of Cirque cast members landed their role and what the troupe is like behind-the-scenes. On the podcast, hear Flor and Nico’s story of getting DuoRings off the ground (literally!), gain insight into the critical role of discipline in the performing arts, and discover how a pair of accomplished artists physically and mentally prepare before taking to the skies.
Moving Quotes:
"To develop as an artist, the first thing is just playing. Go to the park. Just start without competition. That's really how we learned to love what we do."
"Perseverance, determination, and hard work are the keys to achieving the goals and dreams that you set for yourself... Impossible is nothing. If you're passionate about something, you can get whatever you want in life."
"When auditioning, you must have an objective. 'Okay, I want to do that. I want to get that thing. I have an inspiration to do it.' That's the first part... Second, don't copy anybody. You are yourself. Move to your strengths."
"At some point, our performance career will finish. This is why it's important to take care of your body. If you take care of your body, you can grow and continue living."
"Every artist is different, and every artist knows what they need to give the best performance. You must be aware of everything you need to be 100 percent on the stage."
"You must never lose your character until you are in your dressing room."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:34: Flor and Nico retell how they ended up together as an act and how their act made it to Cirque du Soleil.
8:17: Flor and Nico explain what audiences can expect from their DuoRings performance.
10:36: DuoRings shares some advice for performers preparing for auditions.
13:24: Nico discusses why he decided to branch out and pursue an alternate career in physical therapy and how being a dancer helps his physical therapy career (and vice versa).
16:45: Flor and Nico give a sneak peek at what it’s like on the inside of Cirque du Soleil.
20:20: Flor and Nico discuss the importance of discipline in the creative world and how they, personally, must be disciplined as they perform.
22:59: DuoRings shares several tips on physically and mentally preparing for rehearsals and performances.
31:31: Flor discusses what’s next for DuoRings and where audiences can expect to see them next.
33:24: Flor and Nico give some advice to anyone looking to get off the ground with a career in the arts.
Bullet List of Resources –
Flor Aracama
LinkedIn Instagram
Nico Busso
LinkedIn Instagram
DuoRings
Company Website Instagram Facebook YouTube -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Nico Kolokythas, Founder of strengthmotionmind and Strength and Conditioning Coach at the Birmingham Royal Ballet. Nico has an extensive two-decades-long background in elite sports, focusing predominately on judo, netball, basketball, football, taekwondo, and tennis. Nico eventually completed a PhD in injuries and the adolescent ballet dancer through the Elmhurst Ballet School in the UK. He now leads strengthmotionmind — a group focused on educating dancers and dance instructors on strength training and injury prevention.
Nico carries a unique perspective, having pivoted his research career from athletics to dance. Upon entering the arts, Nico was shocked by the lack of injury prevention research in dance — something that receives heavy investment in the sports world. Nico has since made curbing that trend his North Star. On the podcast, Nico discusses the work he’s doing to forward the conversation about injury prevention in dance and gives some practical advice on makimg that goal a reality.
Moving Quotes:
"In sports, injury prevention was at the top of the list. Whereas, in dance, it felt like it was injury management."
"There's not enough evidence that the common workouts used on top of dance training has any effect on injury prevention. We need to move the intensity of the training a little bit higher to have an injury prevention effect. Low intensity training will give minimal change to the body."
"We know physical strength training can actually improve confidence. So, in a way, when we educate young dancers, we are improving their self-confidence and self-esteem."
"I am constantly getting feedback on what works and what doesn't. Because thinking you know what works and thinking that you're not going to make mistakes is probably your biggest mistake."
"You have to know your audience. There's different language you will use in front of researchers, and there's different language you'll use in front of dance teachers or dancers themselves."
"If you're a dancer that wants to help dancers, you already have a foot in the door. Because you know the discipline. You know the industry."
"One of the things we should be thinking when talking about youth dance development is that we want to be active for life. Therefore, giving the right tools at an early age, we have more chances for them to actually be active for life."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:31: Nico describes his company — strengthmotionmind — and the work he’s doing in educating both dancers and dance practitioners.
6:23: Nico, who founded his process on the idea of feedback and iteration, discusses the importance of receiving feedback and acting on that feedback.
9:15: Kolokythas gives more information on his strength and conditioning classes.
11:53: Nico discusses the lack of injury prevention information in dance and the actions he’s taking to curb that trend.
19:13: Kolokythas, who has extensive experience in sports research, explains some lessons learned in athletics that he’s carrying over to dance.
22:34: Nico explains why he believes injuries are so prevalent in dance and how dancers and dance instructors can move from injury management to injury prevention.
31:31: Nico discusses how dancers and non-dancers can prepare their bodies for decades-long active lifestyles.
37:00: Kolokythas gives some advice to any dancers looking to enter the field of dance research.
39:18: Nico explains what’s next for him and how he’s planning to extend the reach of his valuable research.
Bullet List of Resources –
Nico Kolokythas
LinkedIn Twitter
strengthmotionmind
Company Website Instagram Facebook -
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Alexandra Damiani, Artistic Director at BJM-Les Ballets Jazz De Montréal. Alexandra was classically trained in dance in and around her home country of France. After winning the jeune ballet d’Aquitaine de Bordeaux competition in France, she received a scholarship to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in the US and has since danced at a variety of companies — including the company where she is now Artistic Director. Alexandra also has experience in the music and film industries, including an appearance in the acclaimed film Black Swan.
For Alexandra, some of her most formative years as an artist — and as a human — were her years in New York City. Upon landing in the United States, this city filled her with awe and curiosity around all areas of the arts and helped rid her of any anxiety and fear as a citizen in a foreign land. On the podcast, Alexandra discusses the modern dance industry and walks through her entire career but, most notably, shares why the “Big Apple” holds a special place in her heart.
Moving Quotes:
"Suddenly every conditioning I had, every expectation, every demand I was putting on my own body to be a dancer — all of that just exploded. In a moment, suddenly everything was possible. That was New York, for me."
"For the arts, the pandemic is a crucible. This is how we get clearer and stronger. And we can show what we're made of, in a way. There are huge opportunities, if we don't let fear paralyze us."
"Voice lessons and theater and, really, anything will add to your dance resumé. I think, more and more, choreographers want to have dancers who can really offer something."
"You can't be a contemporary dance company and not be a mirror of the society you are a part of."
"I feel very grateful that I have a voice and a platform so that I can be an example for my daughter — for my young dancers — and contribute in that way. At the same time, I don't have all the answers [for achieving female equality in dance leadership]. But we're at the start of a very long journey."
"Ultimately, leading this company is not about me. It's about me with the team, at the service of this dance company from Montreal. From Quebec. From Canada. And I like that challenge — that it will be a balancing act between just the right amount of history and innovation... It's a dance."
"For me, dance has no borders."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
2:50: Alexandra, who previously danced for BJM-Les Ballets De Montréal, discusses what it’s like to come back and now serve as artistic director.
3:57: Alexandra shares some lessons learned in her time as a performer that she hopes to implement as artistic director.
6:42: Damiani explains how she hopes to bring her own personality to her artistic direction, while maintaining the rich culture of BJM-Les Ballets De Montréal.
10:08: Damiani predicts her biggest challenge as she takes the reigns as artistic director.
14:02: Alexandra describes her excitement to be a woman in dance leadership, at this pivotal time when that male-centric culture is beginning to change.
18:37: Damiani, who has appeared in feature films like Black Swan, discusses her involvement in the music and film industry.
22:54: Alexandra retells stories from her life-changing years in New York City and how that time period came to define her as a dancer and as a person.
31:38: Alexandra imparts some advice to aspiring dancers who are hoping to succeed in the industry.
Bullet List of Resources –
Alexandra Damiani
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BJM-Les Ballets Jazz De Montréal
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