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The Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistThe Gift of Uncertainty with Julianna Rubio SlagerJulianna Rubio Slager is the Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Ballet 5:8—a nationally recognized company based in Chicago. She trained with renowned mentors from the Ann Arbor Ballet Theater, New York City Ballet, the Vaganova Academy, and the Puerto Rican National Ballet. Julianna also danced at Greater Lansing Ballet and Ballet Magnificat. In 2012, Julianna co-founded Ballet 5:8 with Amy Sanderson, aiming to elevate ballet as a medium for discussion of life and faith. With over two decades of teaching experience, she oversees programming for over 400 students at Ballet 5:8 annually, guiding them to pursue both technical excellence and personal authenticity. Her ap...
2025-08-0129 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistPurpose in Motion with Mary BawdenI speak with Dance educator and author Mary Bawden, founder of Dance Awareness: No Child Exploited (DA:NCE). Mary received a BA in modern dance from the University of California Riverside, a MA in worship (emphasis in dance) from Hope International University in Fullerton CA, and a California secondary teaching credential. In 2003, she founded Soul to Sole Choreography and released a book, Dance is Prayer in Motion, in 2016. Mary began to notice the culture around children’s dance moving toward an unhealthy trend: sexualizing children in adult-style costumes, sexually provocative choreography, and music with sexual content and/or themes. Sh...
2025-07-2531 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistGiving Your Best “Yes” with Jenn BlessingToday, I speak with Jenn Blessing, owner and founder of Makers Ekklesia Dance Company in Knoxville, TN. Jenn has been teaching for over 20 years. She danced while attending Texas A & M, and directed Company AbunDance, danced in Chara Dance Company, Talitha Dance Company and served as the Artistic Director for the Knoxville Dance Project after moving to TN in 2012. In our conversation she shares about saying yes to leadership, communicating with intention, and shaping a culture that is recognizable and relatable. Learn more about Makers Ekklesia Dance Company: https://makersdance.com/.Learn m...
2025-07-1820 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistRejoicing with Sharyn MahoneyI speak with Sharyn Mahoney, Executive Director of Rejoice School of Ballet in Nashville, TN. A former professional dancer, Sharyn worked in various roles at Nashville Ballet for over thirty years where she developed a relationship with Rejoice School Ballet before assuming leadership as its founder retired. She shares about maintaining a people-first orientation, keeping big-picture focus, and the continual learning process of leadership. Learn more about Sharyn and Rejoice School of Ballet: https://www.rejoiceballet.com/. You can learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers...
2025-07-1128 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistDance, Teach, Reach with Christina ClarkAs part of the faith-based dance series, I speak with Christina Clark, a passionate minister of dance with 15 years experience as a worship leader, teacher and creator of worship garments and tools. She is a wife to Antoine for 17 years and mama to three amazing sons – Mason, Leo and Ethan. She founded Arise Dance Ministry which exists to share God through Dance, Outreach, and Teaching and is focused on helping people grow deeper in their relationship with God through movement. Based  in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina, the ministry offers pop-up worship dance classes called Worship Dance Sundays as...
2025-06-2731 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistGetting Uncomfortable with Katherine LawrenceToday’s guest is Katherine Lawrence, Principal Faculty with Ballet West’s pre-professional training program. A native of Fairfield, Connecticut, she trained atConnecticut Dance School and The Harid Conservatory, where she graduated as Valedictorian in 1998. She performed with The Hartford Ballet for a year before joining Ballet Internationale in 1999. In 2004, she joined Ballet West, retiring as a Principal Artist in May 2021. She holds a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Ballet with a Teaching Emphasis from the University of Utah.In our conversation, Katherine shares about cultivating a positive environment, embracing what makes you uncomfortable, and making decisi...
2025-06-0427 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistChoose Your Adventure with Kati Hanlon MayoToday’s guest, Kati Hanlon Mayo, Academy Associate Director for Charlotte Ballet’s Upper School, trained at The Boston School of Ballet under the direction of E. Virginia Williams & Violette Verdy. At the age of 15, she became a member of Boston Ballet 2 before joining North Carolina Dance Theatre (now Charlotte Ballet) as a principal dancer. She also performed with Chautauqua Ballet Company under the direction of Jean Pierre Bonnefoux.Her students have gone on to professional careers with companies throughout the world, including: New York City Ballet, Nederland Dans Theater, San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet and Houston Ball...
2025-05-2225 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistSDP Recap: Finding your TribeMelissa recaps conversations on summer dance programs from universities to conservatories and how the diversity of training helps you make decisions from an informed perspective while building your community of peers, colleagues, and mentors.Learn more about dance training and careers in dance: www.theballerinatist.com.
2025-05-0819 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistThe Science of 360 Happiness with Grae RobinsonToday’s guest, Grae Robinson, recruiter in the dance program at Texas A & M University shares about their summer dance intensive, planning for academics and artistic growth so you can know your options to reduce pressure or stress in making decisions.Texas A&M dance programs educate students in the art and science of dance by offering a personalized approach to dance training through hands-on, field-based experiences including technical production, dance science research and Pilates. The Dance Science undergraduate program is designed to educate the full dancer through courses focused on dancer wellness and te...
2025-04-0428 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistPracticing Risk with Madeline HarveyToday’s guest, Madeline Jazz Harvey, is an Associate Professor at Colorado State University, is a dance educator, choreographer, and performer specializing in classical and contemporary ballet. Her twenty-year performance career includes dancing with Charlotte Ballet, Carolina Ballet Theatre, and Impact Dance Company. She attended summer intensive programs on full scholarship at Chautauqua Institution, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and The Juilliard School.Madeline holds a BA and Professional Training Certificate in Dance from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and an MFA in Choreography from Jacksonville University. Human connection and vulnerability drive her practice. He...
2025-03-2741 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistLearning to Fall with Emily KentEmily Kent, Education Director for Pilobolus, shares about the company’s summer offerings. She holds a BSEd in Dance Education from the University of Georgia and began working with Pilobolus in 1999, first as a dancer and collaborator and then Teaching Artist. She has created original works for high school and university dance companies for Pilobolus and as an individual artist. She has set classic Pilobolus repertoire on high school and university students. She has created new programs to share the Pilobolus Method to people of all ages and abilities to people around the country: Pilobolus @ Play, the flagship touring ed...
2025-03-1231 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistCrockpots & Frying Pans with Anamarie McGinnAnamarie McGinn is the School Director for Central Florida Ballet. She has received training from prestigious schools all over the U.S. such as; American Ballet Theatre, Boston Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and Joffrey Ballet School. She danced professionally  with Orlando Ballet for 19 seasons, dancing under Fernando Bujones, Bruce Marks, Robert Hill, and Jorden Morris. In 2006, at the American Dance Competition, Anamarie was awarded the Gold Medal in the Senior Classical division as well as The Fernando Bujones “Excellence Award.”  Anamarie received her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Central Florida.  During her tenure with Orlando Ballet, Anamarie also held...
2025-02-2731 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistWhy You Need a Personal Statement as a DancerToday we’re looking at shaping a personal statement as a dancer. As you progress through your artistic development, you’ll be asked to share for artistic philosophy, or perspective. Having a foundational awareness of one’s artistic identity offers a filter through which to make work, choose work, and represent yourself. That identity will continue to add layers, but it also gives you a self-accountability tool so you can center yourself, bring yourself into alignment, and move with confident purpose through life. As artists, sometimes the personal identity becomes one with the artistic identity. But, having a personal identi...
2025-02-0427 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistNut Crackin’Melissa shares about Nutcracker traditions and how it can be such a defining experience for young dancers en pointe. Learn about the importance creating a strong foundation for pointe work so you (or your dancer) are prepared for pointe work. Understand: alignment, neuromuscular control, and the anatomy of a pointe shoe for an optimal experience. Check out the Prepared for Pointe Work course and more resources for pre-professional dancers and their parents: https://www.theballerinatist.com/
2024-12-1736 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistParenting for Dancers - AcademicsFor young dancers in rigorous dance training programs, balancing dance with academics can be challenging. There is a range of options to find equilibrium. Learn about the timing of educational shifts and the differences between pre-professional training, a trainee or apprentice program, conservatories and universities so you and your dancer can make informed decisions every step (and jete) of the way. This episode covers the chapter on Academics in the Parenting for Dancers ebook: https://www.theballerinatist.com/thingsdancersneed/p/parenting-for-dancers-how-dance-training-works-and-how-you-can-help-your-dancer-be-successful Learn more about dance education and career planning resources: https://www...
2024-11-0834 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistParenting for Dancers: Feedback FilterWhat do you do with feedback? Maybe you (or your dancer) is getting feedback that is unclear. The Feedback Filter in the Parenting for Dancers ebook is a great tool to get the most out of feedback to help your dancer grow with confidence. Get the book: https://www.theballerinatist.com/thingsdancersneed/p/parenting-for-dancers-how-dance-training-works-and-how-you-can-help-your-dancer-be-successful Schedule a coaching call: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/31df4fbb/appointment/29534329/calendar/6361592?appointmentTypeIds%5B%5D=29534329 Check out courses at Dance Education Laboratory: https://www.danceedlab.com/courses/calendar/
2024-10-1041 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistBreaking Down to Build Up with Michal HarveyMichal Harvey is our final episode in our season engaging with artists based in Middle TN. Michal is a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor through Balanced Body, a ballet teacher, and a former professional ballet dancer. A Nashville native, Michal trained with The Centennial Youth Ballet. In 2010 she earned a B.A in Dance from Belhaven University. Michal pursued a number of dance performance opportunities with regional companies in Jackson, MS; Jerusalem, Israel; and Fort Worth, Texas, where she danced professionally with Ballet Concerto.Michal relocated back to Nashville in 2013 to a full-time faculty position with The School...
2024-09-0929 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistDance OlympicsDancers all around the world are wrapping up their summer dance programs - which is kind of like the Olympics of dance. Celebrate but don’t forget to debrief your SDP experience - because it will help you confidently make decisions moving forward. Melissa shares things to cover; and the how and why of interpreting the highs and lows of an SDP. Learn more: www.emceemovement.com.
2024-07-2942 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistParenting for Dancers: AdvocacyHelping your dancer prepare to become the director of their path in dance is critical to their transitions through opportunities. Key pieces to this include: audition mindset, healthy boundaries, proactive communication, mentorship, financial literacy, accountability and transparency. Even though the majority of your dancer’s training and performing will take place in group settings, progression as a dancer is a solo role. So, understanding how to advocate for themselves based on their goals, values, and purpose is critical towards a meaningful experience in dance. I referenced artist Netta Yerushalmy and the River to River Festival....
2024-04-2950 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistDancer/Teacher/Parent SynergyLearn how to make the most out of teacher relationships - from communication to feedback and even becoming a teacher. Teaching is more than just telling people what to do. It is a craft and skill to be nurtured. This is an excerpt from the Parent for Dancers guide which can be found here . For more resources on dance training and career planning for dancers, visit emceemovement.com.
2024-03-1851 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistParent Edition: Summer Dance ProgramsGet Melissa’s guide to Summer Dance Programs - Melissa worked for Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Boston Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet’s summer programs. She created an ebook for Parents with her tips and recommendations from her experiences in different cities with different companies so they can prepare their dancers to have a fun, meaningful experience at summer dance programs. Get the guide: https://hpdtn.com/thingsdancersneed/p/rockyoursummerdanceprogram Learn more about dance education and career planning for dancers: emceemovement.com
2024-03-111h 07The Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistDance Electro with MazelfretenDancer-choreographers Brandon Masele and Laura Defretin shared about their work Rave Lucid which is being presented by Oz Arts Nashville February 29-March 2nd. Brandon, an Electro dancer and Laura, a hip hop dancer worked together in this piece to bring electro dance to the forefront as its own independent technique from hip hop dance. You’ll hear about their growth as creative partners and independent artists, their dedication to illuminating the nuances of their forms, and the process of finding synergy on stage, in movement. You can learn more about about Brandon, Laura, and their company Mazelfreten and if you...
2024-02-2926 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistLeadership with Matthew RobinsonMatthew Robinson has a diverse background of movement experience in dance and martial arts. He performed with The West Virginia Dance Company and Roanoke Ballet Theatre while studying to receive his BFA from Radford University. In Cleveland, OH he performed with The Dancing Wheels Company. He also choreographed for and worked with The Cleveland Dance Project Company, performed with North Pointe Ballet and MorrisonDance. He currently dances with di Mossa and Nashville Dance Collective - for which he serves as Artistic Director - as well as continuing to freelance choreograph, dance, and teach. In our conversation, Matthew...
2024-02-2629 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistFleeting Moments with Martin O'ConnorA Nashville based photographer specializing in dance and fine art photography, Martin O’Connor has worked with professional dance companies, studios, and collegiate dance programs to capture dance. He received the Dance Advocate Award from the TN Association of Dance in 2008 for his dedication and support of the dance community. In our conversation, Martin shares about the dynamics of creating meaningful images in dance, developing an eye for movement, and as a true member of the dance community, emphasizing the value of feedback to grow as an artist. Learn more about Martin: http://www.martinoconnorphoto.com/ Learn more about dance ed...
2024-02-0631 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistMore than a Dancer with Kaitlyn McDermittToday’s guest Kaitlyn McDermitt graduated from Southern Methodist University with a BFA in Dance Performance in 2012. She has performed with Roxey Ballet, Avant Chamber Ballet, Ballet North Texas and Bruce Wood Dance Project. Following her transition from performing, Kaitlyn saw a need for mindset training and personal development in the dance industry and created her coaching business Confidance. Her mission is to help dancers feel more confident in themselves in and out of the studio, find their identity through dance and live life to their greatest potential. We talked about transitioning studios, Royal Academy of Dance training, and distinguishing yo...
2024-01-1039 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistChoosing a Dance StudioMelissa shares six Pro-tips for choosing a dance studio that will save you the time and frustration of feeling like you’re missing out on the best option for you and your dancer. Grab the free download and learn more about planning for a career in dance: emceemovement.com.
2023-12-1234 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistTimelines for Pre-Professional Dance TrainingIf your dancer is serious about dance and in a pre-professional dance program, you're probably learning that being the best dancer isn't always enough. This episode covers timelines for pre-professional dance training and milestones for dancers planning for a professional career in dance. For more tools on planning for a career in dance: https://hpdtn.com/thingsdancersneed Timeline for Pre-Professional Dance Training Download
2023-11-2737 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistParenting for DancersMelissa shares from her ebook, “Parenting for Dancers: learn how dance training works and how to help your dancer be successful.” This is a must-have guide for parents of dancers whether your child is about to start dance training or has been dancing for years. If you feel like you have no idea how to support your dancer or manage their dance training, this is a great place to start. Get the ebook: https://hpdtn.com/thingsdancersneed/p/parenting-for-dancers-how-dance-training-works-and-how-you-can-help-your-dancer-be-successful Learn more: emceemovement.com.
2023-10-2624 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistStaying on Mission with Nashville BalletAbout today’s guests: Nashville Ballet’s Artistic Director and CEO, Nick Mullikin oversees all administrative staff, artistic productions, and School of Nashville Ballet programs, serving over 40,000 Middle Tennesseans and 1800 students. He has commissioned over 20 new works for the organization, choreographed several works for Nashville Ballet and NB2, and is highly sought after for teaching and judging international dance competitions. Prior to joining Nashville Ballet, Mullikin has worked with Houston Ballet, Ballet West, and The Washington Ballet. Travis Bradley: Currently, Rehearsal Director for NB2, He has danced for Ballet Memphis, Houston Ballet, Richmond Ballet, and Julia Adam Dance. Travis has crea...
2023-07-1928 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistSea Squirts, your Spine, & Salsa dance with Nicole AhimaNicole Ahima, affectionately known as Nicole la Bailarina, is a popular Salsa dance instructor in Nashville, helping organize the entire local Salsa Scene. Many in the area know her for her great instruction in the art of Salsa, for her women’s dance team, Music City Mambo, for her song-spinning and social planning skills. In this episode, Nicole talks about making shifts inside and outside of her main movement practice to deepen and inform her work. Her journey in dance began in childhood but it wasn't until college that she took ownership of her dance practice. Nicole encourages artist entrepreneurs to...
2023-06-1337 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistWhy Mentorship Matters with Jackie ZarconeJackie Zarcone is originally from Nashville, Tennessee and grew up dancing at Franklin School of Performing under the direction of Kaylee Cahoon. She expanded her training in college, graduating from the University of Alabama with a BA in Dance and a minor in Biology. She completed an intensive workshop in the Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT) Junior, Senior & Advanced programs conducted and produced by Marie Walton-Mahon. Jackie is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 5 of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. She now resides in Birmingham, Alabama where she is teaching at...
2022-12-2729 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistSurrender & Healing with Amy WeberAmy Weber is the founder of THE pow{h}er METHOD and releve one foundation - a non-profit dedicated to helping ensure every woman has access to a safe place to begin and/or continue the journey of becoming healthy in a setting that believes in renewing the mind, body and spirit through movement, encouragement and prayer.  THE pow{h}er METHOD online memberships help to fund the purpose of releve one foundation, which allows everyone to play a part in the healing journey of many women in need. Classically trained in dance, choreography, and barre fitness, A...
2022-12-1532 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistHitting the Right Nerve with Megan WhiteMegan Ciccoline White has been a movement educator for over 20 years. She specializes in teaching Classical Pilates, Restorative practices, and dance education. She lives in Columbia TN, with her husband and three kids, where she owns and teaches at Movement Lab. In her story, you'll hear about learning to listen to one's inner voice, observing and reflecting on every experience, and courageously creating opportunity. Learn more about Megan's work: https://movementlabtn.com/ Visit www.emceemovement.com for more episodes and dance education resources.
2022-10-1727 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistTaking Steps with Lauren MorrisFounder and Executive Director of MOVE Inclusive Dance, Lauren Morris, shares about starting her organization with the mission to empower individuals of all ability levels to learn life skills through dance using the power of movement and music to transform students’ lives while providing a nurturing, inviting community for all. She has successfully grown her organization from a small summer camp with 13 students to a substantial year-round program serving individuals across the US. She has garnered support from iFundWomen and The Red Backpack Global Giving Fund in support of Female Entrepreneurship, as well as being anorganization featured by...
2022-10-1432 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistInside the Industry with Christi DortchChristi's decades of experience in arts management began from her own career as a performing artist in musical theatre across the country. She played all the parts from within; performing, choreographing directing, and producing before moving directly into management. A Nashville native, Christi has witnessed the growth of the industry from performing with Nashville Children's Theatre to rising through roles at Tennessee Performing Arts Center and Westport Country Playhouse. She now consults through her own company, Airlie Strategies, with a focus on small arts and non-profit organizations needing to build sustainable infrastructure.  Learn more about dance education and career development: w...
2022-03-1433 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistFancy Walking with Cortney HenryNashvillian Cortney Henry shares about her experiences in Music City's Swing Dance community. Upon moving to Nashville six years ago, she started dancing, taking classes, and volunteering with Swing Dance Nashville which includes planning Music City Exchange - a weekend of non-stop dancing. Cortney also started Jukebox Mondays at Bold Patriot Brewing Co. in Nashville. Cortney shares about the personal transformation and connections that take place in the partnership, improvisation, and spontaneity of swing dance. Her joy for dance and connecting with others will make you plan a trip to Music City just for dance. Swing Dancing...
2022-03-0131 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistCircle Up with Michelle MercedesA graduate of Florida State University, Michelle Mercedes worked with Urban Bush Women and Dance Lab New York prior to being cast as Clarice in the 2020 West Side Story revival on Broadway. She appeared in New York productions of I Married an Angel and Samson et Dalila, and regional productions of The Wiz, Mary Poppins, Crazy for You, and Footloose. In addition to her performance career, she is an entrepreneur and MBA candidate at the University of Florida. She also worked in the fitness industry both as an educator and as an administrator with certifications as a personal trainer...
2021-07-0927 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistSummer Nights...Dancing Part 2Melissa reflects on her experiences working in summer dance programs - including Boston Ballet, Miami City Ballet, & San Francisco Ballet - and how those programs opened up other opportunities. You'll be amused, recognize yourself at times, and inspired to think strategically about how you approach summer dance programs. Need more support? Check out En Pointe Parenting & Rock Summer Dance Programs to get started. Learn more and work with Melissa to plan your career in dance: https://www.emceemovement.com/
2021-07-0750 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistSummer Nights...DancingMelissa reflects upon her first summer dance programs as a dancer and as an RA with Boston Conservatory (now part of Berklee College), Central Pennsylvania Youth, and Boston Ballet - lessons, losses, and living memories. You'll be amused, recognize yourself at times, and inspired to think strategically about how you approach summer dance program opportunities. Need more support? Check out En Pointe Parenting & Rock Summer Dance Programs to get started. Learn more and work with Melissa to plan your career in dance: https://www.emceemovement.com/
2021-06-1733 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistIn/On Purpose with Maia Claire GarrisonI met Maia Claire Garrison through our work at The Joyce Theater in the Dance Education Program. She is the Owner & Creative Director of Reel. Dance. Music. With a musician father and dancer mother, the arts were embedded in her upbringing. Maia Claire started in childhood as a competitive gymnast, at age 10 she was discovered by The Big Apple Circus. For two years she studied circus arts and joined The Back Street Flyers’ circus act, performing and touring as a child acrobat. She joined her first professional dance troupe as a teenager with Afro Danza. She’s tour...
2021-06-1724 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistEnacting Flow with Becca HobackBecca Hoback joined me in advance of her program, Enactor, premiering at OZ Arts Nashville on June 24th with three solo dances that explore the relationship between the body, womanhood, and a rapidly changing society. She is a founding member of contemporary dance collective New Dialect, and featured in the company as a performer, outreach workshop team leader, community and company class teacher, and choreographic assistant to artistic director Banning Bouldin. She received an Individual Artist Fellowship from the Tennessee Arts Commission in 2020. She is an adjunct dance instructor at Harpeth Hall and trained at the University of North Carolina...
2021-05-1926 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistPeople First with Ashley BrownAshley Brown teaches dance and technical theatre at Brooklyn Prospect High School and is the K-12 Dance Coordinator for Prospect Schools Network. She collaborates with Shining Light as a teaching artist jail/prison facilities and as a way to process and bring awareness to those experiences, she performed at TEDxColumbiaUniversity2019. She's also served as Stage Manager for Off Broadway productions and as former director of BT Dance, a faith based dance company. She currently performs with The DynamitExperience. Ashley is a graduate of Florida State University and Spelman College, where she received an MFA in dance performance and choreography and...
2021-04-2232 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistCalling Yourself a Dancer with Catherine GallantI briefly worked for Catherine Gallant several years ago assisting with event planning and grant writing on a freelance basis. She is a performer, choreographer and teacher - approaching 25 years with PS 89 in Manhattan. Catherine and her students appeared in the documentary PS DANCE. She served on the writing committee for the NYCDOE’s Blueprint for the Arts in DANCE and is on the faculty of the Dance Education Laboratory (DEL). She is a graduate of the Boston Conservatory and holds an MFA in Dance from Temple University. She studied with the Limon Co. and Anna Sokolow, among many others. Sh...
2021-04-0831 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistUnseen Seasons with Mollie SansoneMollie Sansone, a dancer with Nashville Ballet since 2004, shares her 17 year history learning one ballet in the repertoire. As the company prepares to debut a digital reimagining of Artistic Director Paul Vasterling’s work, Seasons, Mollie reflects on how the work has transformed, what it’s like being back in the studio with her colleagues, and shares a glimpse of her process bringing her role in the Winter section to life. Mollie’s dance training began in North Carolina, and she continued to train during the summer at various programs. She is active as a dance educator and ch...
2021-03-2918 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistPivot & Shift with Chris RuttChristopher Rutt will be retiring this year from twenty years as the Dance Coordinator for New Trier High School in Illinois where he leads the Menz Dance program. He completed undergraduate studies in literature at Cleveland State University and graduate studies in dance at California State University-Long Beach. Chris shares about his start in dance, his love for movement, and anchoring his work in respect for every body in every kind of movement. He reflects on building a legacy through dance including alumni from his program who have danced on Broadway and joined ballet companies. If you’re...
2021-03-1228 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistLearn, do, repeat with Stefan ZubalStefan Zubal, a dance educator and performing artist, joins Be En Pointe to share his expertise in crafting experiences for personal fulfillment. Stefan danced professionally with Richmond Ballet and Fort Wayne Ballet, completed undergraduate studies in Theatre at Purdue University Fort Wayne and his MFA in dance at Florida State University - where, you guessed it, we met. Stefan has worked as a choreographer, educator, and director for various organizations and acts a judge for Starquest International. In higher education, he taught at Hartford Community College and Seton Hill University. He is currently a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Ballet at...
2021-01-0728 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistMaking Auditions Fun with Kathryn Avery MyersKathryn Avery Myers is a dancer, fitness trainer, and model based in New York City.  As a former captain of the Brooklynettes Dance Team, she believes in the power of fitness to make you feel, operate, and love better. She is an Instructor with Obe Fitness which means you can take class with her from anywhere in the world. Kathryn shares her journey about overcoming self-doubt, establishing a powerful mindset - especially when it comes to auditions, and staying true to your values even when you’re juggling life as a dancer. Check out her classes at Obe Fitness and use...
2020-12-1529 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistHealing through Art with Pedro SzalayMr. Pedro, as his dancers call him, holds space near to my heart as he became Artistic Director of Southwest Virginia Ballet, my former dance studio. A native of Venezuela, he performed with Ballet Nacional of Caracas, New York Dance Theatre, and with Richmond Ballet. He coached, taught, and choreographed for the School of Richmond Ballet, Chesterfield Ballet School, and Wheelchair Miss Richmond. For 14 years he worked with the Minds in Motion program in Richmond, Charlottesville, Martinsville, Salem, and Roanoke City Schools. Beginning in 2012, he developed Dance Español for 4th graders in public schools. In 2013, he created a Ballet p...
2020-12-0225 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistBeing Drosselmeyer with Anni LuneauFor twenty years, Anni Luneau has focused her passion for the performing arts in non-profit management through planned and individual giving, with an emphasis on strategic planning. Her background includes working for institutions such as New York City Ballet, the 92nd Street Y, The Joyce Theater, PEN America, and now as CEO of her own consulting firm assisting small non-profits and philanthropists in making sound donor decisions. She is also an adjunct professor at Baruch College. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors of Pilobolus. This episode shares her path into non-profit management, from receiving her...
2020-10-1829 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistClassroom Learning through Movement Concepts with Neme AlpersteinNeme Alperstein, a recently retired gifted education teacher of 28 years with the New York City Department of Education and partner teacher in The Joyce Theater’s K-12 dance education program, shares her depth of co-curricular teaching and learning experience and her joyful tenacity in advancing educational standards. Her thirst for knowledge is ongoing as she is a doctoral student in Teaching and Learning with a specialization in Math, Science and Technology at Hofstra University. Additionally, she is a Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Teachers Network Mentor. She received a NASA Excellence in Teaching Award in 2010. Ne...
2020-10-0424 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistFinding Your Voice as a Dancer with Dr. Yoav KaddarDr. Yoav Kaddar shares his perspective on finding your path in dance. He stresses the importance of valuing the fullness of a dance education - it offers way more than just technique class. His experience in dance began with folk dance which defined his role in shaping community whether as the current director of the WVU Dance Program, founding its Summer Dance Academy, or as president of the WV Dance Education Organization. He received his BFA in dance from The Juilliard School, his MFA in dance from University of Washington, and his PhD from the State University of New...
2020-09-2930 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistFinances & Negotiating ValueBe En Pointe host Melissa shares from her personal experience working for various organizational structures and how establishing value for herself translated to clarity in professional choices, improved compensation and working conditions. Ultimately, maintaining one's own value serves the value of the performing arts industry. If you haven't checked out Americans for the Arts' report on Arts & Economic prosperity, take a look now to see how arts and culture institutions generate revenue and investment in their local economies - unlike other corporations which can take their revenues elsewhere. Read more on her blog: https://www.emceemovement.com...
2020-09-1931 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistSimplicity, Depth, & Authenticity with Sheree HarperShe’s the kind of dancer that will stop you in your tracks with her intensity, magnetic presence, and technical ease. Sheree Harper is a freelance performer, choreographer, teaching artist, and proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance from the University of Alabama and a Master’s Degree in Dance from Florida State University. She has studied under artists such as Dwight Rhoden, Desmond Richardson, Suzanne Farrell, Gerri Houlihan, Cornelius Carter, and Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, to name a few. She served as an Ambassador for The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and danced w...
2020-08-3132 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistPromotions & Measuring SuccessMelissa shares her experiences moving through various performance and administrative roles. Promotions have purposeful meaning when they support your goals and values. Taking time to observe what the value system in place and at play in an organization will indicate where or how you’ll find success (or not).
2020-08-1648 minThe Ballerinatist
The Ballerinatist"Yes, and" with Barry BlumenfeldBarry Blumenfeld honors the joy and delight of moving with a dedication to creating spaces for students to express themselves. In this episode, he shares about integrity in dancemaking, defining one’s own path, and boldly embracing challenge. He has been a dance educator in a wide range of environments from pre-schools, studios, public and private K-12 schools to universities, including American University, Gallaudet University and New York University. Barry is currently on the faculty of Friends Seminary School in Manhattan. He holds a BA in Psychology and an MA in Dance from American University and is a graduate of...
2020-08-1330 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistBravery & Body Image with Megan MarshallWhile not a dancer, Megan is no stranger to high performance environments and pressures. She was a D1 track and field athlete at Penn State from 2004-2008. Through the personal experience of an eating disorder along with a passion and education in positive body image and eating disorder awareness in athletics, Megan co-founded The F.L.Y. Movement which provides educational workshops to cultivate safe spaces for athletic teams to discuss body image, self-talk, social media & how that relates to one’s sport. Her mission is to create transparency in the way one thinks and talks about body image and ea...
2020-07-2432 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistEstablishing Safety and Agency for Dancers with Rachel RughWhat does it look like to establish safety and trust in a movement environment? Dancer, choreographer, and educator Rachel Rugh shares her process and experience with a perspective towards accessing agency, maintaining partnerships, and investing in one's creative practice. Learn more about Rachel: http://rachelrughdance.org/about-ba Questions about dance education and training? Visit https://www.emceemovement.com/.
2020-07-1630 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistBill Wade & 20 years of creating with Inlet Dance TheatreBill Wade, founder and artistic director of Cleveland-based Inlet Dance Theatre, joins Be En Pointe. I first encountered Bill’s work through a mutual friend and have had the pleasure of seeing him at work in the studio with his company and seeing the premiere of his work in collaboration with author Kobi Yamada’s “What do you do with an idea?”a few years ago. Bill received the 2012 Cleveland Arts Prize and an award for Outstanding Contributions to the Advancement of the Dance Art Form from OhioDance in 2013. Previously, as an Artist in Residence at Cleveland School of the Arts, he...
2020-06-1432 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistPriorities in Dance training with Physical Therapist Elizabeth Harrison TilstraNashville-based physical therapist, Dr. Elizabeth Harrison Tilstra, shares about her personal experiences in dance training and career as a professional dancer. Tilstra received training at Cincinnati Ballet and University of Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music before dancing professionally with Joffrey Ballet and Nashville Ballet. Tilstra provides physical therapy services to pre-professional and professional performing artists in addition to acting as a consultant for dance organizations on creating dance medicine and preventative care resources. Tilstra is passionate about preventing and reducing injuries through pedagogical practices with balanced conditioning programs. She was recently featured in Dance Magazine: https://www.dancemagazine.com/jobs-in-dance-2629607985...
2020-06-0832 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistSelf-awareness with Melissa BradingMelissa Brading, a former colleague of mine from The Joyce Theater, joins Be En Pointe to share about her career as a dancer, choreographer, and movement educator. She received her BFA in Dance Education from the University of Central Oklahoma and danced professionally in Houston, TX and later in New York City for choreographers such as Hope Boykin, Amanda Selwyn, Chris Ferris, among others. Melissa worked with Avodah Dance, teaching creative dance workshops to incarcerated women. She studied the Limon technique under Alan Danielson’s mentorship and now teaches for The Limon Institute. Melissa’s work has been shown in the...
2020-05-3026 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistPursuing your BFA/MFA in Dance with Bethany SullivanBethany Sullivan is a Nashville native currently residing in Iowa as she completes her MFA in Dance at the University of Iowa. She also has her BFA in Dance and worked as independent, multi-disciplinary collaborator prior to pursuing her MFA. Bethany shares her process for choosing work, recognizing fear, and choosing bravery. She is candid, sincere, and provides a perspective of optimistic wisdom.
2020-05-2027 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistMake Feedback your Super Power!Melissa talks through ways of giving and receiving feedback for maximum impact. Quality feedback inspires, motivates, and empowers you to move forward towards your goals. Also, practicing a mindset to receive/give feedback in the way you would want someone else to receive/give feedback creates an environment for harmony and support. As dancers, feedback, criticism, opinion, and artistic viewpoints, can all become jumbled together. Dancers need to have a strong sense of self and clarity of purpose with which to filter feedback.
2020-05-1631 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistDance Research and Higher Education with Dr. Jessica HerzogenrathMelissa interviews Dr. Jessica Herzogenrath, a dance writer, educator, and researcher on her path in academia. Herzogenrath shares about what movement research can look like, creating opportunities in hybrid spaces, and advocating for the field of dance outside its traditional or expected environments. Learn more about this episode's guest: https://jessicarayherzogenrath.org/about/ Visit www.emceemovement.com for more dance education and career development resources.
2020-05-0431 minThe Ballerinatist
The BallerinatistUnlocking PotentialMelissa offers ten tips as launch pads to continue building your passion, ability, and possibilities as a dancer outside the studio. Taking ownership of a career dance requires constantly feeding inspiration and motivation to uncover the next step in your journey. Visit www.emceemovement.com for more resources on dance education and career development.
2020-04-1639 min