The Background Dancer

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After three full seasons and more than a hundred entries, it's finally time to lay down my microphone and headphones. In this episode, I will be reflecting upon this almost five year journey from the perspectives of WHAT, WHY, HOW, WHEN and WHERE of this platform. What began as merely a channel to voice my thoughts about the world of performing arts has gradually grown into a full-fledged educational reservoir of all things dance.

Tune in one last time to learn about my key takeaways and what's in store for the future. Most of all, THANK YOU so much to all of you who have been with me from the beginning. Remember to always foreground dance in the background and enjoy My Final Cast!

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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We have come full circle yet again and successfully completed another season of the most niche dance content you can find! Part 3 of the season round-up provides a quick run-through episodes 1 - 10. This season was all about the proverbial 'Wearing Many Hats' approach symbolic of most artists around the world. How have the stories of these amazing personalities shaped your perception and approach in dance? Will your journey intersect with one of theirs?

Concluding the third and FINAL season, this episode recaps the marvelous works achieved by some of our best mutli-faceted artists in the performing arts. Ready to fulfill your own Background Dancer journey? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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Growing up in Malaysia within a traditional Chinese household, I realized that I knew very little about my own cultural roots. This wasn’t due to any lack of guidance, but rather a subtle drift — a neglect of curiosity on my part. So when the opportunity arose to revisit and relearn, I stepped forward without hesitation.

That journey led me to Zuna Vesan Kozánková, a reservoir of knowledge who constantly bridged worlds — between East and West, science and spirituality, movement and medicine. In 2024, Zuna published The Tao of Movement, a remarkable book for anyone working with the body — from dancers and performers to therapists, athletes, and movement practitioners. Developed through projects such as Dance and Medicine and Dancing Qigong, it reflects a lifelong inquiry into how movement can be both expressive and healing. At the heart of her practice lies a simple yet profound idea: that movement is not just mechanical, but intelligent.

In this final full-length episode of The Background Dancer, I sit down with Zuna to explore these ideas — to reflect on dance, spirituality, and the ever-narrowing gap between Eastern and Western movement philosophies.

Zuna Vesan Kozánková
The Tao of Movement
Dance and Medicine
Dancing Qigong

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Soft Background Music - FreeMusicForVideo

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What concerns weigh heaviest on your mind as a dancer or dancemaker? How do these challenges manifest across different regions of the world? To explore these pressing questions, I’ve gathered two of my favorite fellow podcasters for a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation in this final guest feature of the J-cast.

Jacob Caldwell is a storyteller and artistic activist based in North Hollywood, CA. With roots in Corralitos and Oakhurst and formative experiences in Santa Cruz and Los Angeles, Jacob uses acting and dance as his primary mediums of expression. As the founder of All House Dance Collective, he is driven by a vision to create a future where arts and education thrive and where everyone has a seat at the table.

Joshua Sailo is a traveler between worlds and mediums, channeling his life experiences into artistic expressions through dance, music, photography, and visual art. A 2021 Artist-in-Residence at D.R.I.F.T. in Dharamshala, he is currently exploring the concept of “folk” as both a performance practice and a function of community togetherness. As a co-founding member of the 206 Dance Collective, Joshua continues to engage with the global dance community through teaching, performing, and podcasting.

In this final entry of The Background Dancer, I sit down with Jacob and Joshua to examine critical issues within dance across Asia, Europe, and the US. What challenges are deeply personal yet universal? Can we identify real-time solutions by adopting a transcontinental perspective in strategic planning and problem-solving? Welcome to Episode 10 of S3, Dance’s Last Slalom.

Jacob Caldwell
Joshua Sailo
Why Dance by the J-Cast

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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What is the difference between contemporary dance and performance art?

This fusion finds profound representation in the work of VestAndPage, the renowned artist duo comprising Verena Stenke (Germany) and Andrea Pagnes (Italy). Since their founding in 2006, VestAndPage has redefined contemporary performance art through their exploration of social, political, and environmental themes. Their work delves into fragility, memory activation, and transformation, heavily influenced by their backgrounds in philosophy and theater. In 2020, they released their Manifesto on Performance-Based Filmmaking: Poetics of Relations as a video article in the Journal of Embodied Research, solidifying their thought leadership in performance art and filmmaking. Their art transcends traditional boundaries, incorporating formats such as “collective performance operas” and “temporary artistic communities” that inspire collaboration and connection. Since 2021, Verena and Andrea have extended their influence as founders and co-directors of the Venice International Performance Art Week.

In this episode, we explored how to navigate across artistic disciplines and roles and discussed the importance of viewing the world through an alternative lens. Their insights remind us that art is not just about the performance — it’s about the deeper, evolving conversation it sparks. Welcome to Episode 9 of Season 3, Performing towards Performance Arts.

VestAndPage
Venice International Performance Art Week

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Harmitzvah - Coolzey

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While counseling often addresses past experiences and emotional healing, coaching takes a forward-focused approach, empowering individuals to set goals, maximize potential, and achieve personal and professional success.

At the heart of this episode is Caitlin Sloan, a former professional dancer who has seamlessly transitioned into an entrepreneur and educator, shaping the future of dance education and career development. Caitlin is a Dance Educator and Career Mentor based in Madison, WI. With a Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Grand Valley State University and a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Missouri, she brings both academic and professional expertise to her role. Caitlin enjoyed a nine-year professional dance career with companies such as Ballet Tucson and Missouri Contemporary Ballet (now Mareck Dance). In 2019, Caitlin founded The Brainy Ballerina®, a virtual platform designed to guide and support aspiring ballet dancers. Through this initiative, Caitlin has worked with dancers across the United States, helping them develop the confidence and skills necessary to thrive in professional dance careers.

In this episode, I speak with Caitlin about her journey from professional dancer to entrepreneur, her innovative approach to dance education, and how she’s redefining career mentoring in the dance world. Welcome to Episode 8 of Season 3, Business with the Brainy Ballerina.

Caitlin Sloan
The Brainy Ballerina

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Abstract Fashion Pop - QubeSounds

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As we know, dance demands immense physical, emotional, and mental commitment, of which pressures of perfection, rejection, and competition can weigh heavily on dancers. Hence, addressing these challenges requires not just mental health professionals but individuals who deeply understand the unique intersection of psychology and the arts.

Enter Terry Hyde — a retired professional dancer turned psychotherapist who has dedicated his career to supporting performers with their mental health. Drawing from his own experiences in the dance world, Terry combined his two passions, dance and psychotherapy, to create Counselling for Dancers in 2017, an initiative aimed at helping dancers address emotional and mental health concerns. Having lived the life of a professional dancer with the ENB, Terry possesses an intimate understanding of the unique pressures and needs of performers.

In this episode, we delve into Terry’s transformative journey and his mission to destigmatize mental health in the dance community. Join me as I explore his insights, lessons, and pioneering efforts to provide performers with the support they need to thrive. Welcome to Episode 7, Season 3,Conversation with a Dance Counselor.

Terry Hyde
STEPPS
One Dance UK
Counselling E-books

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Robotic dreams - DSTechnician

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For far too long, the word “community” has been tossed around as a trendy buzzword, often diluted by vague interpretations and overuse, particularly in the world of dance. Add “online” to the mix, and we’re left navigating an even murkier sea of meaning. What does community really mean in the context of dance, and how can it be effectively cultivated in the digital age?

At the helm of Skool Dance is none other than Lauren Ashlee Messina, a trailblazing choreographer and passionate advocate for dance and connection. Lauren is a Big Easy Award-winning choreographer with a storied career spanning multiple dimensions of dance—performance, choreography, mentorship, and community-building. As the founder of Skool Dance, Lauren has reimagined what it means to create an online dance community. Her mission is to foster meaningful movement experiences that inspire empathy, transformation, and collaboration across disciplines.

In this episode, we unpack Lauren’s journey of building Skool Dance, the lessons she’s learned in fostering a vibrant online dance community, and her vision for the future. Along the way, we explore the essence of community itself and how dance can serve as a bridge between people in a rapidly evolving digital world. Welcome to Episode 6 of Season 3,Communing Dance in Skool.

Lauren Ashlee Messina
Skool Dance

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Beyond the time - Main 7425

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Growing up in Malaysia, where arts and culture often faced censorship issues due to political sensitivities, I had limited exposure to unfiltered cultural reporting. That changed significantly when I discovered BFM, a business station that took the bold initiative to report, analyze, and bring Malaysia’s arts and culture scene to the masses. So in 2022 (yes, that long ago), I spoke with one of the most distinct and inspiring voices behind this transformation: Sharmilla Ganesan.

Sharmilla, with a BA in Media Studies from Murdoch University and an MA in Communication, Film Studies from RMIT University, is a writer, journalist, moderator, emcee as well as arts & culture critic with over 15 years of experience covering Malaysian culture. At BFM 89.9, she’s been the voice behind numerous shows that explore arts, literature and film. Highlights include anchoring the Evening Edition, the station's drivetime current affairs show which covers a huge variety of topics including politics, economy and human rights. Now, she plays an essential role as Content Manager at the Creador Foundation, where she helps pioneer innovative solutions for social impact in South and Southeast Asia - most notably, the Cipta Seni Incubator, which provides Malaysia-based performance artists with creative development resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

In this episode, we discuss the key nuances between radio broadcasting and podcasting, the role of media in preserving culture, and Sharmilla’s personal approach to sustaining her multi-faceted career with exceptional quality and consistency. While many things have changed in these last three years, one thing remains - radio will always have a place in the arts. Welcome to Episode 5 of Season 3, Podcast Killed the Radio Star.

Sharmilla Ganesan
Cipta Seni Incubator
ASEF Guest Podcast

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Rocket - QTM

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It takes a true dreamer to become a dancer, but grit and a bit of luck are often necessary to navigate this challenging world and bring that dream to life. Many dancers know the feeling—when everything seems to be falling into place, the universe can throw unexpected hurdles your way. That’s been my own experience, and it’s part of why Putting My Heels Down struck such a deep chord with me.

Kara Tatelbaum is a multifaceted dancer, choreographer, teacher, coach, writer, and caregiver who brings her whole self into everything she does. She has built a remarkable career performing and teaching in NYC and abroad, earning her BFA in Dance from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and an MFA in Choreography from SUNY Purchase. Early encouragement from her teachers led Kara to choreograph at a young age, eventually founding her own company, *independentdancemaker | Kara Tatelbaum, in 2000. Her work has been showcased at numerous venues, including DanceNow/NYC, the Gibney Center, Joyce SoHo, and internationally at the Shanghai Expo.

In this episode, I dive into my first-ever book review as we explore the incredible journey of New York’s own Kara Tatelbaum, who beautifully intertwines her personal story with universal experiences in a captivating read for dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Welcome to Episode 4 of Season 3, Putting My Heels Down.

Kara Tatelbaum
Putting My Heels Down
Book Review

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
6:00 - DarkSunn

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With the boom in dance universities and academies worldwide over the past two decades, aspiring dancers today may feel spoiled for choice. Yet, identifying true gems among these institutions is crucial for those seeking professional training backed by top educators to shape their futures.

Hence why, I explored these crucial choices with Angela Pickard, a dynamic curriculum builder and innovative thinker who became the UK's first Professor of Dance Education in 2021. Angela is the Director of the Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health within the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Social Care, the Route Lead for the MA Arts, Health and Performance, and the Director of the Hub for Practice-Based Research in the Arts at the School of Creative Arts and Industries. With a background as a dancer, choreographer, practitioner, and academic, Angela brings a wealth of experience in arts research, particularly dance and movement practices, along with a dedication to exploring the relationship between the arts and physical, psychological, social, and artistic outcomes.

In this episode, Angela and I delve into the art of policy-making and education reform, sharing the lessons that have shaped her mission to enhance the dance and performing arts learning environment. Welcome toEpisode 3 of Season 3,Contexting Education Policy and Reform.

Angela Pickard
Critical Dance Pedagogy Network
Canterbury Christ Church University

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Fjords - Treasurseason

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Alexandra Beller is a choreographer, director, teacher, and writer who has worn many hats throughout her career, and was widely known as a member of the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company between 1995-2001. Since then, she has become a mentor and coach, guiding creators and performers on their professional journeys.

She is also the Artistic Director of Alexandra Beller/Dances, an arts organization that has evolved from a performance and education company into a hub that supports artistic growth and well-being through workshops, showings, and creative gatherings. Her choreography has been featured on renowned platforms across the U.S., as well as internationally in South Korea, Hong Kong, Norway, Cyprus, and Poland, with venues including the Institute for Contemporary Art in Boston, The Yard in Martha's Vineyard, Jacob’s Pillow, and more.

In this episode, we take a closer look at Alexandra’s kaleidoscopic journey, exploring how she seamlessly navigates her various roles while maintaining a career of the highest standards as all of Choreographer, Educator and Entrepreneur. Welcome to Episode 2 of Season 3, Anatomy of Choice.

Alexandra Beller
Alexandra Beller/Dances

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Makaih Beats - FakeLove

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After dedicating the past three years to exploring the world of dance through two full seasons focused on its most innovative pioneers and trailblazers, it’s time to shift gears toward a select few who embody multidisciplinary artistry at its finest. To kick off this third and final season, we delve into the journey of a remarkable artist known for his seamless transition between performer, educator, and creator — Swedish-born Winston Reynolds.

Winston began his training at Circomedia in the UK, where he studied acrobatics and physical theatre (FDA, 2010-2012). He later earned his bachelor’s degree from ACAPA (Academy of Circus and Performance Art, Netherlands, 2012-2016), specializing in acrobatic dance — a unique hybrid drawing from gymnastics, capoeira, breakdancing, and martial arts. During his studies, he engaged in extensive research around acrobatic contact partnering under the guidance of Alexander Vantournhout, who played a pivotal role in refining Winston's movement practice.

As we embark on a brand new season of exploring influential voices from both today and tomorrow, we invite you to join us in uncovering the key lessons that have shaped Winston Reynolds' professional journey and his innate ability to traverse diverse fields with grace and precision. Welcome to Episode 1 of Season 3,A Depth Within.

Winston Reynolds
Ferus Animi // Terra Nova
YouTube Catalogue

Soundtracks:

Bee Mine - Action Davis
Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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Bonuses don't end with just the one, as we have yet another fascinating character to introduce to the Background family. What does ageing actually mean in dance? To tackle an issue haven't discussed on this platform, we spoke to a fellow Asian born - Sharon Brach.

Sharon is a highly versatile dancer, instructor, and choreographer on the back of a distinguished career that spans Asia, the US, and Europe. After rigorous training in Manila, she graced prominent stages and appeared on television before moving to the United States, where she refined her artistry at STEPS on Broadway and the Broadway Dance Center. She joined the faculty of the Shirley Martin Dance Company in Los Angeles, taught multiple genres, and coached competitive teams at renowned studios including Bodies in Motion NY, ACT 1 School of Dance, and Dance Arts. Brach is the founder of the Kulmbach Dance Center in Bavaria, Germany, where she also works as a teacher and choreographer. As an author, Brach has self-published several children's books, many of which are bilingual editions to help with English as a Second Language (ESL).

Not often do we come across Asians making it in Europe and who also offer such depth to their career outlooks. If you're ever feeling a little too old to dance, think again! Welcome to Bonus Episode 2 of Season 3, Growing Older, Dancing Deeper.

Sharon Brach
Kulmbach Dance Center
Unicorn Books

Soundtracks:

Background Music Soft Calm - lNPLUSMUSIC
Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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Before diving into yet another fascinating season of dance changemakers, we first have some bonus episodes to wet your appetite! Season 3 is primarily about multi-faceted artists who wear many hats and are brilliant at them all. When the opportunity to host an inaugural LIVE book review presented itself, I duly accepted the challenge to tell choreographer, educator and author, Janaea Rose Lyn.

Janaea's focus is on creating and facilitating work that reflects timeless human experience through timely personal stories. Her book, Choreographing Your Dance Career (CYDC), is a handbook and resource for dancers and educators in any style or career stage. As an advocate, she is committed to strengthening dance communities by fostering dialogue, providing choreographic and career feedback, connecting artists, and encouraging the creative exchange of ideas and opportunities.

If The Background Dancer is the Yellow Pages of dance, CYDC is essentially your daily workbook to level up! Welcome to Bonus Episode 1 of Season 3, Choreographing Your Dance Career .

Janaea Rose Lyn
Choreographing Your Dance Career
Duncan Archive

Soundtracks:

KVZE - Buddies4danite
Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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We have come full circle yet again and successfully completed another full season of the most niche dance content you can find! Part 2 of the season round-up provides a quick run-through episodes 11 -20 under the thematic categories of Technology, Education, Business, Interdisciplinarity & Politics. How have the stories of these amazing personalities shaped your perception and approach in dance? Will your journey intersect with one of theirs?

Concluding the second season, this episode recaps the marvelous works achieved by some of our best pioneers and trailblazers in the performing arts. Ready to fulfill your own Background Dancer journey? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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We have come full circle yet again and successfully completed another full season of the most niche dance content you can find! Part 1 of the season round-up provides a quick run-through episodes 1 -10 under the thematic categories of Management, Media, Science, Fashion & Choreography. How have the stories of these amazing personalities shaped your perception and approach in dance? Will your journey intersect with one of theirs?

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Established as an independent, non-profit organization, WDA-AP originated as the Asia Pacific Dance Alliance in Hong Kong in 1988. It later became part of the global body, World Dance Alliance (WDA), founded in 1990 by Carl Wolz. In 1993, the name of the Asia-Pacific Center was changed to WDA Asia-Pacific to reflect its relationship to the global body. Tasked with serving as a primary voice for dance and dancers throughout the Asia-Pacific region, the WDA-AP encourages the exchange of ideas and the awareness of dance in all its forms.

Led formerly by president, Urmimala Sarkar Munsi (now Anna Chan), who is an associate Professor of Theatre and Performance Studies at the School of Arts and Aesthetics, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India. She is a PhD holder in Social Anthropology, specializing in Dance Studies and the socio-cultural context of tribal and folk dance. Beside her principle area of work on body, dance and Society, her research interest is in gender and performance, documentation of living traditions, and performance as politics.

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Politics, this episode discussed the expanding global performing arts landscape, how to fortify international relations and what the future holds for representation in dance. Ready to discover the diplomat within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Urmimala Sarkar Munsi
WDA Asia-Pacific
Asia Pacific Channels
MyDance Alliance
Youtube & Book publications

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Coverless book - MYAUDIOVISION
Ever flowing - ItsWatR

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Founded in 1987, California-based AXIS Dance Company has long been at the forefront of redefining dance and disability. Through world-class productions that challenge perceptions, AXIS quickly established itself as one of the first contemporary dance companies to integrate disabled and non-disabled dancers. AXIS has since toured extensively, performing in over 100 cities across the US, Europe, the UAE, and Russia, while also earning nine prestigious Isadora Duncan Dance Awards.

Current Artistic Director, Nadia Adame, began her international career as a disabled artist with AXIS in 2001 and has now returned to lead the company. An actress, writer, award-winning dancer, and choreographer, Nadia trained in flamenco and ballet at the Royal Conservatory of Dance and Drama in Madrid, Spain, before earning her BA in Theatre at the University of Colorado. Nadia was a company member with CandoCo, AXIS, and Compañía Y in Spain, further solidifying her reputation as a champion for inclusivity in dance.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Politics, this episode explore the mission and vision of Nadia and the pioneering work of AXIS, uncovering the potential of the dance world to embrace diversity and inclusion more fully. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Nadia Adame
AXIS Dance Company
Candoco Dance Company
Origins of AXIS

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Harmony - Serge Pavkin
Upbeat Emotive - u_968xy4i23x

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One of the most persistent misconceptions surrounding classical ballet is the notion that they are too old-fashioned and rigid. However, true arts enthusiasts recognize its inherent diversity and multi-disciplinarity even in the so-called "olden days." A prime example is the Ballet Russes, one of the greatest ballet troupes of all time, led by the legendary impresario Sergei Pavlovich Diaghilev. Fast forward a hundred years, and the landscape has evolved, yet the core principles of collaboration and innovation remain unchanged. My curiosity about the craft of producing and curation has led me to one of the most influential ballet impresarios in Europe today: Paul Seaquist.

Paul is a visionary in dance, having founded Seaquist Dance Marketing, one of the first dancer and choreographer management companies globally. He has played a pivotal role in developing and directing the careers of some of the most celebrated ballet stars, including Aurélie Dupont, Vladimir Malakhov, Polina Semionova, Carlos Acosta, Daniil Simkin, and Iana Salenko, to name just a few. More recently, he created and directed the “Grand Prix Vladimir Malakhov,” the first ballet competition in Cuba's history, as well as the “Gala de Estrellas de Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic,” both charity-driven dance competitions. Now, he is the CEO of SwanSea Productions

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Interdisciplinarity, this episode explore the nuances of working with the world's biggest stars and the challenges of being at the forefront of modern day performing arts. Ready to discover the producer within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Paul Seaquist
Interview En Lair
Interview Ballet Rising
SP Records & Music Management

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Ballerina Shoes - Geoffharvey
Free Love Story Clavinet - Lobo_Loco

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The memory of my first-ever invert on a pole — when I hung upside down—remains vivid as if it happened yesterday. That experience with the circus arts community in Malaysia opened my eyes to a vast and captivating genre that thrives on its interdisciplinarity. So, when the opportunity arose to delve into this season's exploration of interdisciplinarity, I was fortunate enough to discover CircusTalk, an international online platform previously led by Canadian Casting Director and Career Coach, Stacy Clark.

Stacy Clark is a seasoned professional in the circus and performing arts industry, and she’s no stranger to the stage herself. Before making a name in the circus world, Stacy worked in marketing and communications. Eventually, she left that behind to perform and teach circus arts across the globe, on stage, at festivals, and even on screen. Her career trajectory then led her to become a talent scout and eventually the Director of Casting at the renowned Cirque du Soleil. In 2021, Stacy joined CircusTalk as CEO, determined to help a small but ambitious team transform the platform into a global hub for the circus arts community.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Interdisciplinarity, this episode explores the intricate world of circus arts, challenges of managing an all-encompassing online platform and the essence of interdisciplinary arts. Ready to discover the circus within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Stacy Clark
CircusTalk/StageLync
Jamargig

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Chaos in the Mouse Kingdom - SergeQuadrado
The circus marched down bourbon street - Melodyayresgriffiths

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Positioned as a pre-seed collaborative social enterprise, DanceGRiST was established with the noble objective of elevating the income and status of dancers, multi-skilled artists, and other professionals in the movement arts sector. Led by the visionary Carole Edrich, a former tango dancer and bodybuilder turned project manager and writer, DanceGRiST has cultivated an international team and forged fruitful commercial collaborations all while challenging the prevailing misconception that dancers possess limited value beyond the stage.

Carole's portfolio career spans roles as an arts programmer, activist, and communicator, demonstrating a relentless commitment to advocating for artists' rights and advancing the cultural sector. Simultaneously, she has also provided thought leadership and consultancy in risk management to financial, insurance, public and NGO organisations, won prizes for her journalistic photography, and become a sole dance consultant to the American Express’s Bon Vivant Magazine.

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Business, this episode delves into the inner workings of cultural accelerators, running a pre-seed business, and Carole's vision for the future of arts entrepreneurship. Ready to discover the accelerator within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Carole Edrich
DanceGRIST
Carole's substack
What is a business accelerator?
The Joy of Dance
What is cultural entrepreneurship?

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Ethereal Vistas - Denys Brodovskyi
Titanium - AlisiaBeats

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Shifting from performer to entrepreneur requires not just passion but also a high tolerance for risk and uncertainty. Without a strong appetite for the unpredictable journey ahead, many dancers shy away from the entrepreneurial path. Yet, those who do take the leap often become the industry's trailblazers, using their vision and tenacity to spark meaningful change.

One such trailblazer is Danny Hindmarsh, an Australian dancer turned business innovator who is already making a global impact. As the CEO and co-founder of Industry Auditions, Danny has developed an online platform that addresses a critical gap in the performing arts: talent sourcing and recruitment. His cutting-edge mobile app offers performers a centralized hub to find auditions that perfectly match their skills and interests.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Business, this episode explores the lessons of building a tech business, navigating career transitions, and leveraging industry knowledge to enhance the performing arts. Ready to discover the businessperson within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Danny Hindmarsh
Industry Auditions
Hindmarsh Productions
How to acquire industry knowledge

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Tokyo Cafe - TVARI
Spring Inspiring Ambient - Makesoundmusic

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Dance education is often likened to a Chinese proverb: 'A minute of work seen on stage takes 10 years of work off stage.' And while talent plays a role, education stands as the primary pillar shaping a dancer's journey. In our exploration of dance education during our first season, we delved into academia and the art of learning. Now, we take a closer look at the business of education, focusing on the creation of teaching resources essential for dance educators in the form of Dance Ed Tips.

Enter Olivia Mode-Cater, the visionary behind DET, founded in 2017 to empower dancers and dance teachers across the nation with a rich array of teaching resources and learning materials. With a solid background as a seasoned dance educator and entrepreneur, Olivia is a sought-after presenter, sharing her expertise on both national and international platforms. Her journey as Director of Dance Education at Hofstra University established the institution's dance education program among the Top 30 in the United States, recognized for its high-quality teacher preparation training.

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Education, this episode explores Olivia's trailblazing journey while unveiling the secrets behind her innovative transformation in dance education. Ready to discover the educator within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Dance Ed Tips
Olivia Mode-Cater
Mosston's Spectrum
Dance Studio Pro
Hosftra University

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Morning garden acoustic chill - Olexy
Waterfall - Roman Senyk Music

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A personal story told many times over on this podcast is my journey into dance which commenced gradually through the popular reality TV series, So You Think You Can Dance. While the show's drama took center stage for many, what captivated me was the dancers' adaptability across various styles and techniques. It revealed that each dance style was rooted in fundamental technique, a pivotal aspect for any dancer unlocking their physicality.

One recent development in the vast history of dance techniques is Countertechnique, a mischievously named yet transformative approach developed by Anouk van Dijk. With over 25 years of experience as a dancer, choreographer, and teacher, she gradually transformed her insights and dancer dialogues into a comprehensive teaching method. Countertechnique challenges the traditional notion of technique as rigid and prescriptive. It's a dynamic system that encompasses diverse skills to deepen self-awareness, expand physical possibilities, and inform creative choices.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Education, this episode explores the intricate process of developing a dance technique, the mindset required, and what the future holds for techniques shaped across time. Ready to discover the pedagogue within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Anouk van Dijk
Countertechnique
Developing a contemporary dance technique
Copyright a dance?

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Background Fashionable Deep House - Ivymusic
Chill Fashion House - Stock_music

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When Boston Dynamics, an engineering and robotics design company went viral for successfully creating the now famous Atlas dancing robots video, it caught more than a few people in the world of dance by storm. Would our jobs be threatened by robots too now? Enter the fascinating world of Choreorobotics, a field that explores the convergence of dance choreography and robotics technology.

At the forefront of this interdisciplinary domain is Dr. Kate Sicchio, a choreographer, media artist, performer and Assistant Professor in Dance and Media Technology at Virginia Commonwealth University, whose groundbreaking work has garnered international acclaim. Dr. Sicchio's pioneering research delves into the creative possibilities of integrating technology into dance performance, pushing the boundaries of what is possible when humans and machines collaborate on stage. Sicchio's contributions to the field of dance and technology have earned her recognition as a leading figure in the emerging field of "digital dance" or "dance and technology.''

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Technology, this episode investigates Choreorobotics, dancers’ attitudes towards technology and what the future holds for aspiring tech enthusiasts in the world of arts and culture. Ready to discover the roboticist within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Kate Sicchio
Virginia Commonwealth University
Origins of Choreorobotics
Atlas dancing robots
Dancing with Robots
Inverse magazine

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Whipped-cream - WatR
Ambient Technology - Mapa Music

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SaaS, also known as software as a a service or web-based software, operates on a subscription basis, providing users with centrally hosted solutions accessible anytime, anywhere. This model has transformed countless industries, including entertainment, communication, and, most notably, education. As dance studios and activity centers worldwide sought efficient management solutions, Jackrabbit Technologies emerged as a pioneer in cloud-based class management software.

Under CEO and co-founder Mark Mahoney's leadership, Jackrabbit Technologies has grown into a multi-million dollar company serving over 5 million students across more than 15,000 locations in 36 countries. Mahoney's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation have earned him numerous accolades, including the NC Tech Exec of the Year, the Michael J. Bryan Award for entrepreneurial excellence, and recognition as a Charlotte area Top 50 Entrepreneur and Most Admired CEO.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Technology, this episode explores one of dance technology’s greatest successes in modern times, the impact of SaaS on the performing arts, as well as what the future holds for Mark and his thriving team of pioneers. Ready to discover the tech geek within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Jackrabbit Technologies
Mark Mahoney
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Best studio management software

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Refined style - Daddy's Music
Inspirational Background - Audio Coffee

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Long before the formulation of the world’s first MA in Screendance by the LCDS, the genre had already dated as far back to the early days of cinema. Gene Kelly emerged as a prominent figure during the 1940s and 50s after he starred in and co-directed the classic film "Singin' in the Rain" (1952). In contemporary cinema, dance continues to play a significant role through films such as "Black Swan" (2010), "La La Land" (2016), which have all brought dance back into the spotlight for the next generation of creators to continue evolving.

One such creator is dancer, choreographer, and creative director hailing from the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California - Mike Tyus. Tyus has graced the stages of renowned companies including Cirque Du Soleil, Pilobolus Dance Theater, while collaborating with visionaries like Sidi Larbi Cherkoui and Inbal Pinto. His choreographic style is a captivating fusion of his diverse training, blending elements from circus theater, acrobatics, ballet, and Greco-Roman wrestling to create a truly unique and mesmerizing art form as evidenced with the likes of the LA Dance Project and Joffrey Ballet. In 2020, he established Mike Tyus & Co, a dance company dedicated to bringing his visionary work to life, with an impressive repertoire of over 13 films and a litany of original works and branded commercial campaigns featuring SONY, Apple, and Abercrombie & Fitch.

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Choreography, this episode ponders about theideas and potential of creating dance for the camera, and what it takes to succeed as a screendance choreographer. Ready to discover the filmmaker within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Mike Tyus
Jacob Jonas The Company
Dance Masterclass
MA in Screendance
TPOPA Interview

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Courtesy - WolfBeat
Uplifting background music - Saavane

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While most of us aspiring contemporary dancers will decide to undergo formal training under the foundations of Graham, Cunningham, Limon and various others, a small subset has diverted into the wondrous world of puppet theatre. One such performer, choreographer and now puppeteer is Duda Paiva. After a few more years thriving as an independent theatrical artist, he initiated the Duda Paiva Company in Amsterdam, Holland, in 2004.

Duda was educated as an actor, ballet and Butoh dancer in both Brazil and Japan. He moved to the Netherlands in 1996, where he worked as a professional contemporary dancer and choreographer. Curious and adept at researching multidisciplinary art forms, Paiva pushes the boundaries of visual theater and creates an exciting and unique idiom, blowing life into foam sculptures.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Choreography, this episode explores the choreographic mystery behind creating for both humans as well as puppets, how to find constant harmony and what the future ultimately holds for this art form. Ready to discover the puppeteer within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Duda Paiva Company
Puppeteers of the world
History of puppet theatre
Traditional puppet theatres around the world

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
22 circus - Hasenchat
Once in Paris - Pump up the mind

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Costumes, costumes, costumes... they are everywhere, aren't they? From festive occasions to theatrical performances and even on the silver screen in movies. Whilst studying dance, I was always captivated by the costume design at the School of Theatre and Arts Entertainment. They were the ones I interacted with most, as they were responsible for crafting costumes and set designs for various other departments including Music, Drama and Chinese Opera.

Rike Zöllner hails originally from Germany and was trained at The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (MA) after obtaining a degree in Literature and Performing Arts in France. Over the years, she has collaborated with choreographers such as Dimitris Papaioannou, Ben Wright, Theo Clinkard and Colette Sadler to name a few. In 2019 she was awarded as an Honorary Associate of the Royal Welsh College Of Music And Drama, and is now pursuing her PhD whilst also acting as academic assistant in the art history department of the Offenbach University of Art and Design back in Germany.

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Fashion, this episode explores the intricacies of costume design in dance, how it differs from other art forms and how to pursue one as a full-fledged career. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Rike Zöllner
History of dancewear
The Guardian cover
Pros & Cons of costume designing

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Aint Ova - Keyframe Audio
Catwalk - Keyframe Audio

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As a dancer, have you ever wondered about the significance of the clothes on your back? For most, the selection of brands and gear is a deliberate choice, a conscious decision shaping their dance journey. A notable name in this arena is SMK Dancewear, a label bearing the imprint of its founder and designer, Sandra Meynier Kang. The brand's ethos revolves around eco-friendly textiles, zero waste production, and a vegan, locally made product range.

Sandra Meynier Kang, is a French native who has followed a unique path in both the fashion world and rhythmic gymnastics. Her journey intertwines her passions for rhythmic gymnastics, design and ethical fashion based on eco-friendly and upcycled textiles and accessories. She graduated in 2008 from Atelier Chardon Savard, a French fashion design school based in Paris, and in 2010 she moved to Seoul as a fashion commercial agent to work for a few designer brands before creating her dancewear brand in 2017.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Fashion, this episode delves into dancewear industry, unraveling its trials and triumphs. From collaborations and fashion expos to navigating the establishment of a dancewear brand in an unfamiliar country. Ready to discover the designer within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Sandra Meynier Kang
SMK Dancewear
Culture & Creativity cover
Pointe Magazine cover

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
The Sunshine - DayFox
Rio Fresh - DayFox

https://sandrameynierkang.com/pages/symmetry-visitus

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Have you ever suffered a catastrophic injury? How does one recover and regain peak condition following damage to the anatomy? Amidst the many inherent challenges within the dance sphere — a beacon of hope shines at the NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital through the presence of the Harkness Center for Dance Injuries. Beyond their exceptional array of services encompassing physical therapy and injury prevention programs, they also provide comprehensive educational offerings, both online and in person. A noteworthy accomplishment is the full accreditation, secured in 2020, of the Harkness Center’s Postgraduate Performing Arts Physical Therapy Fellowship Program by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education (ABPTRFE).

At the nexus of this endeavor is Dr. Donald Rose, a distinguished sports medicine physician and orthopedic surgeon. He stands as the founding director of the Harkness Center for Dance Injuries at NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital. Dr. Rose's realm of expertise encompasses the management of injuries unique to dancers, and he diligently conducts research aimed at refining dance injury treatments. His impactful contributions extend further, as he serves as an orthopedic consultant to esteemed dance companies, including the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Martha Graham Dance Company, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and the now-defunct Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Science, this episode delves into the intricate underpinnings of both sports and dance medicine, as well as the challenges inherent in ensuring the enduring health and career trajectories of dancers. Ready to discover the caretaker within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Donald Rose
Harkness Center for Dance Injuries
Harkness Healthy Dancer Initiative
RYC Orthopedics
NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital

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What exactly is Dance Science? What are the main foundations that constitute its rich and detailed history? Given dance's unique position at the intersection of arts and sports, it was inevitable that this field would eventually enter the mainstream. One pioneering institution that played a crucial role in this transformation was the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, with one individual standing out as a driving force behind this revolution – Professor Emma Redding.

Professor Emma Redding is a distinguished practitioner, educator, and researcher in contemporary dance and performance science. Prior to her role as Director of the VCA, she served as Professor in Performance Science and Head of Dance Science at Trinity Laban. Her contributions include co-authoring the first-ever Master's degree in Dance Science and being a key figure in establishing dance science as a recognized field of study in Higher Education. She has also assumed leadership roles as a founding partner of the UK's National Institute for Dance Medicine and Science and as a Past President of IADMS.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Science, this episode delves into its foundations, significance in the performing arts, and how it could become an integral part of every dancer's education. Ready to discover the scientist within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Emma Redding
VCA Dance
Trinity Laban
IADMS
Healthy Conservatoires

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Happy (Dub) - Igor Pumphonia
Stingray - Lisofv

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What does it take to stand out as a podcaster anyways? Is the craze for this new medium truly justified for the world of dance? Like in every other sector, the field of dance-related podcasts is now beyond saturated. Yet, that didn’t discourage me from starting a show, completing a full season and then embarking on a whole new one right after! It starts with your message and the value it brings to listeners who are looking to learn something from you which they cannot do elsewhere - which I did through one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, The Dance Podcast.

Lauren Ritchie is the host and one of the earliest pioneers of dance podcasting, starting as far back as 2016. After a highly competitive career as a dancer, having trained in ballet, jazz, tap and lyrical styles, she transitioned into a coach, educator, writer and adjudicator for part two of her glittering career. Recognizing the lack of mental skills training in dance, Lauren created programs dedicated to educating and empowering dancers’ mental health as well as fitness to optimize their training, subsequently transforming her experiences into 5 seasons totaling 160 episodes on her podcast.

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Media, this episode explores the role of podcasts as performing arts media and what it takes to excel as a dance podcaster. Ready to discover the podcaster within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

The Dance Podcast
Lauren Ritchie
Best dance podcasts in 2024
The Benefits Of Dance Education Podcasts For Entrepreneurs
Why podcasting is crucial for dance

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Double Overhead - ItsWatR
Embrace - ItsWatR

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Is journalism dead? What is the most trusted form of media today? While there isn’t a definitive answer, one company comes admirably close. Dance Media Publications is a multi-varied media platform that covers dance like no other and has been consistently delivering engaging content to the most dancers, dance professionals and dance lovers globally. Among its many satellite publications, the Dance Edit podcast stands out as a prominent voice for daily news and updates revolving around the world of dance.

Margaret Fuhrer was formerly the Editor in Chief and Producer of the Dance Edit Podcast. A journalism graduate from NYU, her writing has been published on esteemed platforms such as The New York Times, The Huffington Post, and The Brooklyn Rail. Margaret has also worked on other Dance Media outlets such as the Dance Spirit, Pointe and the Dance Magazine, the latter in which she now devotes her work to as Features Editor. Best of all, she is the author of the book American Dance: The Complete Illustrated History, published in 2014.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Media, this episode uncovers the secrets of pursuing a career in journalism and ambition to work for the best media companies in the arts. Ready to discover the journalist within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Margaret Fuhrer
Dance Media
The Dance Edit podcast
The Dance Magazine
Ambiguity of modern day journalism
Power of words

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Double Overhead - ItsWatR
Embrace - ItsWatR

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What does it mean to be a leader in the arts? Have you ever dreamt of heading an international platform which boasts both historical and current prestige? As far as dance goes dance, very few are like The Jacob's Pillow. Established on a treasured 220-acre national landmark, it is one of the oldest running dance festivals and home to the USA's most influential dance icons, including the man who started it all, Ted Shawn.

In 2016, Pamela Tatge was announced as the new Director of The Pillow after serving as the Director of the Center for the Arts at Wesleyan University, overseeing robust programming and acclaimed artistic initiatives for dance, music, theatre and the visual arts, including the Breaking Ground Dance Series. Pamela was named one of “The Most Influential People in Dance Today” by Dance Magazine in 2017 and is the recipient of the Association of Performing Arts Presenters’ 2010 William Dawson Award for Programmatic Excellence and Sustained Achievement in Programming.

Continuing a brand new season and month of Dance Management, this episode tells a story ofleadership, helming the 2 in 1 director role and how to establish a working culture at a renowned cultural heritage center. Ready to discover the manager within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Jacob's Pillow
Pamela Tatge
Pillow Lab Residencies
The FIRE
Be a leader, be present
When executives burnout

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Gypsy Swing - Serge Quadrado
Retro Hip Hop - Nver Avetyan

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What does it take to stage a dance festival? Have you ever wanted to initiate an international platform with long-term sustainability? Despite the overwhelming number of contemporary dance festivals around today, very few have peaked at the level of a Deltebre Dansa, ImPulsTanz or Jacob's Pillow. However, B12 has managed to achieve such status in an even shorter time, which makes their story doubly more remarkable. And the secret to all of this? A stellar management team of course!

Johannes Wieland and Evangelos Poulinas are co-founders and the brains behind this project, with both having had successful performing and choreographic careers prior to transitioning into critical management roles. Johannes was once artistic director for the Staatsheater Kassel in Germany while Evangelos on the other hand, co-directed the One Small Step festival in Greece.

Kickstarting a brand new season and month of Dance Management, this episode tells a story of the many challenges in establishing an international dance platform, building a competent team and the unique experiences of co-directing as project leaders. Ready to discover the manager within you? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

b12 Festival
b12 Spring
b12 Fall
Johannes Wieland
Evangelos Poulinas
How to organize and plan a dance event?

Soundtracks:

Birds - Tyler Twombly
Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
Something Elated - Broke for free

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Are you compromising your art for more exposure, followers and following on social media? What do artists really need? Simply, we need to be discovered by people who are interested in what we have to share. Just think about it. Instagram is not a search engine like Google or YouTube where you can easily type, for example – ‘dancers’ – choose style of dancing, and you get a list of 100 000 dancers around the world with which you can filter out and identify exactly what you want. In the end, you’re just left hoping your work is ‘’engaging” enough for a much larger audience than Instagram takes you for.

Welcome to a brand new mini series covering our proposed launch of an up and coming digital space, suite of professional tools and dedicated ecosystem for the arts and culture - Artunio. Throughout the next four episodes, join me and Timotej Vrab as we look into the core issues of mainstream social media and how Artunio presents itself not only as an alternative, but a collective movement hoping to change the landscape once and for all.

It's time to take back your creativity, artistic freedom and control of career choices by changing the way your art is produced, shared and valued!

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Why is it important?
How does it work?
Wish to try?

Soundtrack: Waterbeat - DJ Lengua | Scotch - KVZE

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Is the overall environment on social media just absurd? Is it appropriate to place art next to irrelevant content such as pets, pranks and political correctness? But that herein lies the problem we face when squaring up to mass content on platforms that treat us not as the content itself, but the product in which to profit off from. The reality is, we cannot expect social media to change. We need to assume accountability and build a new one that is designed for art and artists with conditions that are beneficial for the whole community. Listen, isn’t it always better to build your own house than to live under the restrictions of someone else's?

It's time to take back your creativity, artistic freedom and control of career choices by changing the way your art is produced, shared and valued!

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Soundtrack: Waterbeat - DJ Lengua | Harmitzvah - Coolzey

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Does social media actually downgrade your creativity? What are the obvious disadvantages of constantly churning out content for such platforms? A lot has changed from their humble beginnings and who knows how much more is changing as we speak. Even photographers who once upon a time came flocking over to Instagram, are now finding themselves leaving along with their dreams. Still think this doesn't concern you? Think again.

It's time to take back your creativity, artistic freedom and control of career choices by changing the way your art is produced, shared and valued!

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Soundtrack: Waterbeat - DJ Lengua | Weeknds - Dayfox

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Is social media suitable for artists? What are some of the challenges posed by Facebook or Instagram for artists and creators looking to build sustainable careers? While it might have been a great avenue to promote and network with fellow peers initially, much of social media has regressed over the years. Nowadays, we are seeing an increased aversion towards its application especially upon the creative industries. But all of this isn't new, is it? And where are the solutions, if any at all?

Welcome to a brand new mini series covering our proposed launch of an up and coming digital space, suite of professional tools and dedicated ecosystem for the arts and culture - Artunio. Throughout the next four episodes, join me and Timotej Vrab as we look into the core issues of mainstream social media and how Artunio presents itself not only as an alternative, but a collective movement hoping to change the landscape once and for all.

It's time to take back your creativity, artistic freedom and control of professional choices by changing the way your art is produced and valued!

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Visiting Artunio
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Soundtrack: Waterbeat - DJ Lengua | Something Elated - Broke For Free

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Welcome to a whole new wave of specials, featuring a roundtable version of the show alongside two new co-hosts in Jacob Caldwell and Joshua Sailo. Throughout this 10 episode series, we present extracts from our Clubhouse sessions on the Why Dance? by J-Cast clubroom.

In our final entry of this special series, we go back to basics. As conventional wisdom goes: Failure is the first step to success, the cliché prevails. The question is, is it that much of a cliché at all? Sometimes, one needs to take a step backward, to then make two steps forward. What were some of your most momentous failures in dance? Here, we discussed how massive failures in our dance journeys proved pivotal in shaping the artists we are today. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In Round 9, business is the bedrock of modern society - providing the tools for all supply and demand be it in the arts, or otherwise. As artists however, we are often our own businesses and the bedrock of the gig economy. Without freelancers and the ever vibrant gig economy, the arts would crumble. In this extract, we talk about ways to approach dance as a solo entrepreneur, a business person of your own career and a financially savvy decision-maker in an ever changing, unpredictable and often cut-throat industry. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In Round 8, we were once called the Avant Garde of society as artists. That’s because it was our jobs to always be prescient in the perception of our futures, of innovations that could be brought forth, of bravely charting uncharted territory. Obviously, artists play a hugely different role today. But thankfully, we still maintain that most valuable trait - the desire to imagine and create a desirable future. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In Round 7, we explore the mysteries of dance and its many crossovers with neighboring and distant disciplines, especially with regards to why one should even consider engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration in the first place. Should we cross genres because we can? Is interdisciplinarity the new contemporary? Tune into a discussion on our perspectives and experiences of the multi and inter of dance disciplinary crossovers. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In Round 6, dancing isn’t always about belonging to the art form, it also comes with a community and support system. How can we build more communities and strengthen existing ones in dance? For this session, we were joined by another contributing voice and the first clubhouse attendee to have called in, Thomas. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In Round 5, Dance and Education, perhaps the most fundamental element in a dancer’s journey from their first steps in the studio, all the way through their first steps into full fledged professional life. At the end of the day, the level of education one undergoes significantly affects their prospects of succeeding within this field, but how so? And what are some of the potential pitfalls one can and should avoid at all cost? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In Round 4, how does dance and philosophy intertwine as an art form? Is dance a philosophy itself? Much of dance has evolved from a performative act into the universal thought process and stream of consciousness that has shaped the world around us. Behind every text spoken, is movement as a communicative language. Behind the aesthetics of dance is also humans' basic need to share and connect beyond the ring of philosophical fire that has made art what it is today. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In Round 3, we dived into the complex and imminent world of dance technology, from the perspective of resistance, acceptance and prescience of different innovations within dance and the performing arts. From disabilities, to robotics, to software as a service, the world is our oyster when it comes to the marriage between dance and technology. How has technology influenced us in the most impactful ways? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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Round 2 posited why dance is a great avenue to develop and apply leadership skills. It is complex, consists of a diverse population and is relatively low stakes. What else could one ask for as training wheels to one day become a leader in the performing arts or even within other sectors? Here, we elaborated on the experiences of our art collectives and what were some of the best lessons derived. Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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In this debut entry, we discussed how different schemas, mindsets and social upbringings have influenced the way we approach dance, perceive the world and vice versa. Knowledge is vast and timeless, constantly everchanging and varies geographically, politically and temporally. Is this one way of knitting the world closer? And is that a powerful and often unconscious advantage that dancers hold? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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What was the worst dance injury you've ever experienced? How did you eventually overcome it? As a dancer, injuries are almost a given. Some are little niggles, others are massive and potentially career-ending. Since everyone is bound to suffer at the fate of the injury bug at some point, shouldn't there be more support systems in place to prepare a dancer for such circumstances? In this very case, it's most definitely recovery over prevention as prevention is almost impossible.

As part of another special entry leading up to the launch of Season 2 in 2023, EP.40 officially introduces the J-Cast, the three-men crew on the bi-weekly Clubhouse sessions. We are basically the roundtable version of the podcast, which makes this episode an apt choice for our special series. Furthermore, this was also recorded on the back of two members having suffered major injuries. How did they survive? Listen to find out!

Joshua Sailo
All House Dance Collective
Harkness Center for Dance Injuries

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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How does intercultural exchange influence dance? And are people as interdisciplinary as art is? Upon receiving a plea to help out a friend's graduate thesis, a study which investigates how the reality of intercultural exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration and working in Slovakia as a foreign artist all intertwine in the year 2022, we duly complied in providing the best possible account. After being based here in Central Europe for the past three years, there inevitably exists an impression or two about the local landscape.

Continuing our special episode series as we build up for the launch of Season 2 in 2023, this episode explores how some of the most critical aspects of the global dance market have combined to develop Jason as an artist. Ready to fulfill your own Background Dancer journey? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk | Waterbeat - DJ Lengua

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What would it take to finally gain cultural and political independence from Russia? How is the cultural landscape changing amidst this relentless conflict? After many false promises of a no invasion stance from President Putin, Russia crossed the border into Ukraine under the guise of a special military operation on February 24, 2022. Almost three months on, that so-called operation continues to wage on in the form of a full scale war. But even after incessant shelling, killing and unspeakable atrocities, Ukraine perseveres.

Amongst those who chose to stay is Oleksandra Korotchuk, a Ukrainian artist and recent Master’s graduate of the Academy of Fine arts in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia. Her professional experience have included working as a film director, director of photography, photographer and video editor for the likes of Alliance Francaise and the Puppet Theatre in Banska Bystrica.

What is it like to be an artist based there now? What is in store for Ukrainian artists heading into the future? What’s next in this evidently cultural war? Throughout this special episode, we explore the five biggest lessons learnt as a Ukrainian artist, told from the experiences of Oleksandra herself. Ready to dive deep into the cauldron of topical fire? Join us as we foreground dance and arts in the background!

Oleksandra Korotchuk
Instagram
On Cultural Occupation
How Ukrainians are saving art during the war
History between Ukraine and Russia

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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So, we have come full circle and successfully completed a full season of content and creation! While it has not been easy, it was through your truest support and consistency to the show that we have made it. 10 categories, 12 months' worth of content! What do you think about personal anecdotes, stats, tokens of gratitude and so on? As they all obviously provide a very different outlook, it's important to round up with as comprehensive a rundown as possible.

Concluding the first season, this episode explores crucial aspects of the show in how it has grown, changed and consolidated itself as a one of a kind platform. Ready to fulfill your own Background Dancer journey? Join us as we foreground dance in the background and see you all very soon!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk | Hidden - Darkstorm & Diabolik

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After a year long run, it's time to recollect our thoughts and engage in a little one on one with a very special AMA episode. Here, we listen to 13 unique questions about Jason as a dance artist, podcaster and person in general. Although some were not the most suitable to tackle first hand, this was a wonderful thought experiment and window into the host, producer and founder of the Background Dancer journey.

Don't forget, this episode is part of a double launch alongside the finale of Season 1 in the next one. In addition to this, we also have a brand new YouTube channel launched and ready to touch your life positively, and passionately.

Concluding the first season, this episode explores some of the toughest questions regarding the industry as well as more general ones about podcasting and the dance artist voyage. Ready to live through some of the toughest and most personal inquiries? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk | Hidden - Darkstorm & Diabolik

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What does it mean to be a nomadic artist? What exactly is a contemporary nomad? With the increasingly globalized world we live in today, it's only natural that dance artists travel to where opportunity presents itself. However, constant migration often leads to fragmented individualities and scattered homes, which results in a recurring process of arriving and departing in search for what hopes to be the penultimate destination.

Henry Daniel is a Distinguished SFU Professor, Professor of Dance, Performance Studies and New Technology, scholar, performer, choreographer, and Artistic Director of Full Performing Bodies. As a former dancer, he worked with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Centre Workshop, Pearl Primus African American Dance Company, José Limón Dance Company (USA) and Tanztheater Münster (GER)

Concluding the month of Politics, this episode explores key challenges faced by contemporary artists of past and present concerning migration and fragmented identities . Ready to fulfill your contemporary nomad's journey? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Henry Daniel
SFU School for the Contemporary Arts
Alvin Ailey American Dance Centre Workshop
José Limón Dance Company
Tanztheater Münster

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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How can we best navigate power dynamics within a dance workplace? What about through active agency and heterarchy? Organizational structures have historically been a challenge for corporates and performing arts groups alike, mostly presenting itself as a tough nut to crack. However, therein lie a multitude of ways to better grasp and understand the psychology and modus operandi of our environment, resulting in a reframing and distancing from the often negative connotations associated with the concept of POWER.

Sarah Rubidge is an educator, academic and choreographer and digital artist working in dance for over 40 years. She was Head of Education at Rambert Dance Company and headed up the MA in Dance Studies at the Laban Centre between 1992 and 1997. She is currently mentoring Postgraduate students at the Bartlett School of Architecture Masters in Design for Performance and Interaction, and serves as a PhD examiner and mentor. She was subsequently awarded a Readership and then a Professorship in Choreography and New Media.

Kickstarting the month of Politics, this episode explores the research and methods of navigating power dynamics within the increasingly complex workplace of the performing arts. Ready to become an active agent and unleash personal power? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Sarah Rubidge
Paper and articles
Rambert School
Laban Centre
Bartlett School of Architecture
University of Chichester
Books on politics

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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What is the difference between education and learning? And for who exactly is dance education for? Although most of us would have to teach at some point, education accounts for much of what the present and even upcoming generation promises to offer. In other words, it's not easy and should never be taken for granted! Instead of relying on standardized education, why not adapt your way of absorbing and transmitting information as an independent learner?

Zebastian Mendez Marin is an instructor, choreographer, director, dancer, actor and co-founder of Colectivo Priekopník Veverička and the Red Movement Network. He hails from Costa Rica and performed for Belgian company Ultima Vez, touring the revival of Wim Vandekeybus' legendary "What the body does not remember". In recent years, he has collaborated with the likes of Honey and Dust and Divadlo Štúdio Tanca of Slovakia.

Concluding the month of Education, this episode explores what it means to be a dance educator outside institutional frameworks, also the key differences between education and learning. Ready to learn better and become a great learner? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Zebastian Mendez Marin
Colectivo Priekopník Veverička
Red Movement Network
Education vs. Learning

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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Why engage in academic research as a dancer? How does intellectual rigour contribute to the development of a dance artist? While we are often instructed to dance first and think later, careers in the performing arts can resemble a slippery slope to many. So, why not combine the visceral with the exegetical to stand out amongst the 'moving' crowd?

Mohd Anis Md Nor is an educator, author, Research Fellow and Managing Director of the Nusantara Performing Arts Research Centre (NusPARC). He was Professor of Ethnochoreology and Ethnomusicology at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur for many years, pioneering the study of Zapin dance and music in Southeast Asia and has published widely on the said topic, including 20 books to date.

Kickstarting the month of Education, this episode explores the importance of academic research and intellectual training within dance education, also the future of practice as research within the global curriculum. Ready to be debunked on some researcher myths? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Mohd Anis
NusPARC
Talking About Interview
Publishing Catalogue

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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How could we identify and solidify personal style as a creator in such an overwhelmingly saturated world? Ever wondered why Urban/LA Choreography has grown into the cultural (TikTok) phenomenon it is today? While choreography works differently according to specific genres, creative capacity runs parallel across all choreographers. Obviously, the only way to find out is by diving deep into the mind of one!

Adam Tan is a dancer, choreographer and instructor based in Brooklyn, USA. Beginning his journey as a pole dancer in Malaysia, he has evolved into an internationally touring performer dancing alongside the likes of Shaun Evaristo, Bam Martin and Aye Hasegawa. Currently, he trains and performs with Southern Sole and Hood Nation.

Concluding the month of Choreography, this episode explores the differences in choreographic styles between genres, as well as tips to keep evolving as a creator. Ready to think like a choreographer? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Adam Tan
YouTube Archive
TikTok vs. Hip Hop

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Soundtrack: Birds - Tyler Twombly | Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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How does a piece of choreography extend its lifespan and visibility beyond the point of creation? Why have both music and the visual arts speared ahead with copyright and licensing frameworks while dance lags far behind? Choreography Online is the world's first online choreography marketplace, paving the way for creators to not only license and sell their works to a global audience, but also others to purchase rights to a work of genius on demand!

Rick Tjia is a choreographer, composer, coach, and currently the co-founder/CEO of Choreography Online. Besides working for the Cirque du Soleil, he is also Patron of Phoenix Associates and I-PATH in the UK. As a dancer, he has performed for the likes of Twyla Tharp, Joe Layton and La La La Human Steps.

Kickstarting the month of Choreography, this episode explores the potential for selling and purchasing choreography through the digital terrain, while emphasizing the crucial necessity to establish more anti-plagiarism laws for dance. Ready to view choreography in a completely different light? Join us as we foreground dance in the background!

Choreography Online
Rick Tjia
I-PATH
JaQuel Knight makes history

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Love to both dance and act? Maybe you don't need to choose one over the other after all. But what exactly is the connection between dance and theatre in contemporary times? From the heydays of DV8 Physical Theatre, Pina Bausch, Ultima Vez and currently the likes of Punchdrunk or Gecko Theatre, dance and theatre are forever inextricable both as art forms as well as physical entities.

Ho Ying Fung is a theatre director, playwright, designer and producer based in Hong Kong whose work focuses on applied theatre and arts for education and cultural studies. He is also the founder and director of Ho Bit Goon (何必。館), a cultural hub for arts and body-mind centering practices.

Concluding the month of Interdisciplinarity, this episode explores the intersection between dance and theatre in contemporary contexts. Ready to learn more about the ins and outs of this truly fascinating crossover? Join us as we foreground cross-disciplinarity of arts in the background!

Ho Bit Goon

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How does dance and philosophy intertwine as an art form? Is dance a philosophy itself? Much of dance has evolved from a performative act into the universal thought process and stream of consciousness that has shaped the world around us. Behind every text spoken is movement as a communicative language. Behind the aesthetics of dance is also humans' basic need to share and connect beyond the ring of philosophical fire that has made art what it is today.

Henry Lai is a lecturer in Complementary Studies and Liberal Arts at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA). Prior to his current tenure, he worked at Silicon Valley for more than 10 years managing international education programmes and is a M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering graduate from Purdue University, USA.

Kickstarting the month of Interdisciplinarity, this episode explores the intersection between two often complex yet fulfilling topics of discussion - dance and philosophy. Yearning for a deeper understanding of dance aesthetics and intellectual rigour? Join us as we foreground cross-disciplinarity of arts in the background!

Henry Lai
The Philosophy of Dance
Philosophers of Dance

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A much postponed episode and one a long time coming. This week, I write a little poem for you as a means of a sharing some very new and exciting updates about the podcast and my life! After successfully acquiring funding to expand the team, we will be launching a few new features to the platform including blog posts, a Clubhouse room and even a YouTube channel! All this is coming soon and arriving at your doorstep across October, so stay tuned for more in what's also the month of Interdisciplinarity. In fact, you could always start here...

"It's finally that time of the year,
when the ships arrive and the cargos clear.
I pinch myself awake for light to appear,
remembering all the things held unto so dear."

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How does modelling help dancers perform better? And does one necessarily have to be 'beautiful' to pursue such a career? The fashion industry has progressed massively from the days of archetypal body types and facial features, where the one size fits all model loomed by and large. Nowadays, it is about compatibility and authenticity. Find the right agency or project, and a model is potentially born.

Ema Steindl is a student at the Academy for Performing Arts in Bratislava pursing her Bachelor's degree, but is also a professional model currently tied to three different international agencies. While she did not qualify fully as a model early on, she was discovered serendipitously on a bus and given the opportunity to realize her unique gifts in both fashion and dance.

Concluding the month of Dance Fashion, this episode explores life as both a dancer and fashion model, offering insights as to what these two industries entail when interweaved. Interested in joining a casting session soon? Consider picking up a move or two and surprise your panel!

Ema Steindl
Agencies

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How much does fashion influence dance and vice versa? Does dance photography differ from commercial fashion photography? The truth is, the dancer and the dancing body offers a model unlike any other, as the physical architecture and visual awareness potentially render a photographical experience something beyond just the image.

Szabina Biro is a UK based freelance photographer whose portfolio ranges from audition shoots, dance classes, theatre performances and lifestyle or fashion shoots. While she dreamt of becoming a dancer when still a child, she now realizes her dreams through her lenses, dancing through life shot by shot, image by image, dancer by dancer.

Kickstarting the month of Dance Fashion, this episode shares insights into a dance photographer's life and how a cameraman helps fulfill a dancer's potential. Szabina is not the only photographer around, but she certainly is one who truly cares about her dancer.

"I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn't say any other way - things I had no words for." - Georgia O'Keeffe

Szabina Biro
Dancing Through Life Photography

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What is the hardest question to ask in dance or as a dancer? Regardless of one being a dancer, or wanting to become a dancer, there are questions that are always incredibly difficult to communicate such as salary, goals, aesthetics etc. Join All House Dance Collective director Jacob Caldwell and artists Elsea Mayes Brown as well as Megan Schneider to talk all things dance.

Concluding the month of Bonus Content, this episode explores some of the most difficult questions within the industry through the first roundtable discussion involving guests of the Sol Fest 2021 virtual arts festival held in June. What is YOUR hardest question to ask?

Jacob | Elsea | Megan
All House Dance Collective
Sol Fest 2021

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Are you happy with your career? A certain Chris Rock once joked: "there are people who have jobs, and there are those who have careers." We spend so much time in the workplace and often neglect the all important question - Is this the right profession for me? Jonathan Collaton is a student affairs coordinator at the University of Toronto Scarborough, and creator of the Career Crossroads Podcast, a platform investigating career transitions and lifelong professional development.

Kickstarting the month of Bonus Content, this episode explores the understanding of careers as the bedrock of human society, Jonathan's path to his current position and what it means to run the podcast.

"In order to find yourself, you have to lose yourself." -David Brooks.

Jonathan Collaton
Career Crossroads Podcast

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How often have you engaged with technology and shirked? Is it something that annoys or even intrudes you? Love it or hate it, technology is the FUTURE. Maybe consider how it could enhance your livelihood instead, and suddenly it is more friend than foe.

Concluding the month of Dance Technology, this episode introduces the FIVE must have apps as an artist or creative in today's age. Knowing technology is never enough anymore, we have to master it and...Trust it!

Magisto
Link in Bio
Shazam
Marquee TV
Buymeacoffee

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Wish to dance differently? Within an augmented reality, the limits are endless both with technology and dance! Gilles Jobin is the founder and Artistic Director of Cie Gilles Jobin, a Geneva based dance company specializing in VR and technological integration.

Continuing in the month of Dance Technology, this episode introduces the importance and potential of technology not just to dance, but life as we know it. Ready for a change? Come and join us in this augmented reality!

Cie Gilles Jobin
Cosmogony
La Comedie Virtuelle

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Ever noticed what you've been dancing on all this while? Research has proven the effectiveness of quality dance floors in preventing serious injuries as well as extending the life span of professional dancers. Guy Dagger is the Managing Director at British Harlequin / Harlequin Floors, one of the world's leading manufacturers of dance and performance flooring.

Kickstarting the month of Dance Technology, this episode introduces the importance of good flooring and how they differ accordingly. Those dance floors surely don't make themselves, so let's raise the floor together with Harlequin!

Harlequin Floors
Guy Dagger
Case Study

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How do you brand a ballet? Every Artistic Director needs a business brain as support in marketing a company forward. Heidi Lee is the incumbent Executive Director of the Hong Kong Ballet, one of the three flagship dance companies in the city and among the leading ballet institutions in Asia.

Concluding the month of Dance Entrepreneurship, this episode introduces the job scope of an Executive Director, as well as key branding and leadership strategies to energize a dance company's commercial image within the community.

Heidi Lee
HK Ballet
Romeo & Juliet

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What do ballerinas and entrepreneurs have in common? Yes, there is always failure before success, a fall before the RISE. Susanne Puerschel was a former member of the Berlin State Opera and founder of Pointe To Rise, an empowerment society and online business platform for ballerinas and dancers alike.

Continuing in the month of Dance Entrepreneurship, this episode delves deep into the psyche of life as a former ballerina and how to gain empowerment for a future in entrepreneurship. Ready to run your own online dance business? Come, let's put on our shoes and pointe to rise!

Susanne Puerschel
Pointe To Rise
Pointe To Rise Podcast

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Do dance and business ever go hand in hand? How could dance artists maximize financial opportunity by gaining financial literacy? Erin Pride is an educator, performer and founder of The DancePreneur Academy, an online business coaching programme dedicated to helping dancers thrive as self-made entrepreneurs.

Kicking off the month of Dance Entrepreneurship, this episode introduces the do's and don'ts of owning an online dance business, and how to fulfill one's purpose as a dance entrepreneur. "It's time to say no to starving artists, but more thriving artists!"

Erin Pride
Dance Boss Podcast
@erinpride

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What was our first ever universal language? No, it did not require speech as there was only movement at the very beginning. Vincent Yong is Singapore's sole Certified Movement Analyst, Somatic Movement Therapist and founder of Danspire International.

Concluding the month of Dance Wellness, this episode introduces the concepts and applications of movement studies and somatic practices. Movement is not just motion, it is a mindset. Listen in as we explore why the 'first wealth is health'!

Vincent Yong
Danspire International
Facebook page
YouTube channel
Flow: The Art of Creating AbunDance

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Who do you ultimately serve? No, I don't mean as an employee or such, but as a human being who's driven to bring value to others. When you wake up every morning, ask yourself these questions: Who do you dance for? Why do you dance? If you can't figure one out, consider defining your Avatar.

Continuing in the month of Dance Wellness, this episode introduces the business application of an ideal customer/Avatar. Learn how to design your own compatible version and develop an effective means to thrive within the creative industries. Yet to have a purpose for life or work? Come and let's build our Avatars!

Defining an Avatar
HK Dance Magazine feature

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Where can dancers turn to for an interest or career in science? The overarching aim of dance science is to optimize dancer performance and minimize injury risk for the prolongation of one's professional life. Edel Quin is the Programme Leader of the Dance Sciences at the University of Chichester and co-authored the bestseller, Safe Dance Practice in 2015.

Continuing in the month of Dance Wellness, this episode introduces the main faculties of dance science and its various affiliated organizations. Ready to research? Join us as we talk all things dance science!

Edel Quin
Safe Dance Practice
IADMS
Safe in Dance International
Science for Dance Educators

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What do doctors and dancers have in common? They both apply the human body as main instruments! Yes, medical expertise can benefit dancer wellbeing in a multitude of ways, but you obviously need an actual doctor present for that. Dr. Filomar Cortezano Tariao is a Senior Lecturer of Dance at NAFA and a licensed physician whose mission is to raise awareness for dancer health through the lens of inclusivity and diversity.

Kicking off the month of Dance Wellness, this episode introduces the similarities and differences between the medical and arts industries. We already have doctors who can dance, so here's a call for more doctor dancers!

Dr. Filomar Cortezano Tariao
WDA Singapore
Featured research article
2016 Singapore Paragames Performance

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Is podcasting a necessary medium for the arts? There are already a multitude of dance podcasts available that offer such wide-ranging information, so it shouldn't be a question. My answer is obviously YES, but let me share with you exactly WHY.

Not all dancers just dance
Extension of the dance experience
Vehicle for the arts
It is an immense network
Helps cultivate industry leaders

Concluding the month of Art Media, this episode discusses the fundamental reasons to podcast both as a listener and creator. More importantly, we explore how podcasting could be the next frontier for dance development.

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Is social media a viable option to build a dance archive?How can one stand out in the sea of information while still expressing a voice? U.S based artist Megan Castro set out on her own fascinating journey and has amassed over 29k followers on Instagram since beginning a little over a year ago.

Continuing in the month of Art Media, this episode discusses the rigors of movement research and searching out like-minded communities. If you've always wanted to archive movement material, maybe it's high time you opened that movement journal!

Megan Castro
Movement Journal
Creative Archive
Online Dance Classes

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Remember when having a journal was actually cool? Instead of filling one up with words and whimsical doodles, how about movement instead? In the advent of the pandemic, Megan Castro set out to create her own version of a journal and has amassed over 29k followers on Instagram since beginning a little over a year ago.

In the month of Art Media, this episode introduces the nature of one such project and some of the challenges involved temporally, physically and artistically. If you've always wanted to archive movement material, maybe it's high time you opened that movement journal!

Megan Castro
Movement Journal
Creative Archive
Online Dance Classes

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We write almost everyday, in every way. Like a dancer, being an editor also requires having a voice that can inspire across all levels of society. For those who many not find the stage all that appealing, the 'paper' is certainly an alternative means for self-expression. Melinda Gaskin is the Chief Editor of HK Dance Magazine, a young organization advocating for more journalistic voices in a crowded dance space.

Kicking off the month of Art Media, this episode introduces the pathway to becoming a good writer and how to channel that sense of creativity to a wider audience. Grab your pen (or laptop) and let's find your paper, your stage!

Melinda Gaskin
HK Dance Magazine
Spill it or Spell it out Blog

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Taking a trip down memory lane with my first ever personality test, yeah the one with the birds! Personality tests are not the absolute rulebook, but they can be useful navigators for making smarter career decisions and to better adapt to your work setting. Most importantly, they are just fun and memorable!

For the final installment of Season One's month of Art Management, let's do a little rope a dope. In this episode, we explore more management roles and help align them with your DOPE personality type. Are you a prospective production manager? or curator? Let's find out!

DOPE Bird Personality Test
DISC Test
Animal in You

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What is a producer in the performing arts? What does it mean to be scouring for not just an elephant, but a purple one as well! In recent years, the role of producer has received growing attention as more crucial shapers of a highly globalized creative industry. Bilqis Hijjas is an independent producer, art critic, educator and choreographer in Malaysia who has amassed more than a decade of professional experience.

In the month of Art Management, this episode reveals some of the challenges regarding the democratization of designated roles, alongside secrets to becoming a successful dance producer. Are you amongst the next generation of art enablers? Let's find out!

Bilqis Hijjas
KL Dance Watch
Critics Republic
Rimbun Dahan Arts Centre
MyDance Alliance

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The second of a two-part series exploring the tools and motivations behind starting a dance company. Prof. Joseph Victor Gonzales features as the first ever guest on the show and is an immensely experiencedperformer, choreographer and educator. Most notably, he is the founder/artistic director of ASK Dance Company, one of the very few full-time employing companies in Malaysia.

In the month of Art Management, this episode dives deeper into the challenges regarding talent development, international recognition and what the future beholds post-COVID! Do we ask enough pertinent questions that need answering? Let's find out by 'Dancing the Malaysian! '

Prof. Joseph Victor Gonzales
ASK Dance Company
Books on Malaysian dance
Dance blog

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The first of a two-part series exploring the tools and motivations behind starting a dance company. Prof. Joseph Victor Gonzales features as the first ever guest on the show and is an immensely experiencedperformer, choreographer and educator. Most notably, he is the founder/artistic director of ASK Dance Company, one of the very few full-time employing companies in Malaysia.

This episode also kickstarts the month of Art Management. So much of what and why we start something important is due to NECESSITY. Do we ask enough pertinent questions that need answering? Let's find out by 'Dancing the Malaysian! '

Prof. Joseph Victor Gonzales
ASK Dance Company
Books on Malaysian dance
Dance blog

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Transitions can be daunting, but dancers need to consider one at some point in their journey. So why not start now? In this episode, we ruminate about the reality and necessity of career transition. Also, some highlights through the show's 10 major categories starting in March!

Identity Foreclosure
Career Transition for Dancers
Psychological Implications for Young Dancers in Transition

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In this episode, I have a little wordplay derived from the acronym of DANCE. The idea of building community is always a priority, thus who am I hoping to connect with?

D - Dedicated Doers
A - Aspirational Agents
N - Nuanced Nerds
C - Consistent Contexts
E - Educational Entertainers
Aspiration vs. Ambition
Context is everything
Agency of Change

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Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Background Dancer! Here, I share my vision and passion for all things offstage regarding the world of dance and performing arts.

To begin with, what does it feel like to bask in the background? Relive the highlights of my life experiences that have culminated in the establishment of this newest passion project. Everyone requires inspiration to kickstart something in life, and my watershed moment arrived quite timely during the final year my studies at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA). Throughout this episode, I share my thoughts about:

The scale of the art / cultural / creative industry
STAGE Creators Collective
Background dancing and supporting
Major topics / categories to be discussed

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As part of a double-episode launch, I now take you through the four major principles of why all this is so important to me, and hopefully also to you. This episode will expand on the tenets of:

Community Building

Enriching social capital by virtue of TRUST
Establish connectivity by maximizing technology and talent mobility

Education

Nurturing more adaptable leaders and impact drivers in the industry
Leadership as a cultivated trait rather than an inherent gift

Workforce Versatility

Need for more multi-faceted artists in the everchanging industry
Developing transferable skills in preparation for post-performance career possibilities

Career Progression

Lack of HR support hinders talent and career development throughout cultural organizations
Analyze and consider your career compatibility at all times

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The Background Dancer: Recent Episodes

Jason Yap