Abun(dance)

We bring to you, Dominic Fortunato, fellow Mercyhurst Alum! Dom has been touring with the production 'CATS!' for the last two years. He shares with us the ins and outs of what it's like to tour with a major production. We are thrilled to have stolen some of his precious time pre-show to make this happen. Dom is truly electric on and offstage. Be sure to give this episode a listen and see him perform 'CATS!' in a city near you!

We are thrilled to welcome Phil Chan, co-founder and author of 'Final Bow for Yellowface.' With the help of Chan and Georgina Pazcoguin, positive change is happening to eliminate Asian stereotypes and fight for other under-represented people in ballet. This is a critical conversation to be had as we continue to work on diversifying and correctly representing all people with integrity. We highly encourage you to listen to this episode to better educate yourself on all of the important matters Chan discusses. Check out his book as well!

It is an honor to have spoken with Anisa Tejpar! She is a co-director of 'Hit and Run Dance Productions' based in Toronto, Canada. And Tejpar does very important work as an intimacy coach for dance and film. She helps to break down points of consideration for rehearsals and performances as well as necessary disclaimers for audience members that should be considered to keep all individuals feeling safe and comfortable. We appreciate the work she is doing!

Kathleen Bostleman shares with us her breadth of experience ranging from dance, arts administration, yoga, massage therapy, and owning her own business. She speaks on pivotal moments such as her time abroad in China where language was a true barrier, and how an injury temporarily lent her towards gaining new skills. Kathleen has accomplished so much already in her twenties! This is an episode worth listening to — check it out!

Sally Tierney, studio owner and director of 'Just Dance,' in Virginia shares her early dance beginnings which led her to become the successful studio owner she is today. She is just about ready to pass on the torch and continue exploring other avenues and sharing her wealth of knowledge through other means such as her very own podcast. Check out 'The Dance Studio Podcast' to learn more! Her passion, love for her students, and effort to continue educating and bettering herself for her students is truly honorable.

This episode illuminates Vincent Paterson, director and choreographer in film, concert tours, opera, commercials and more, creating behind the scenes for some of the largest names! From lead dancer in Michael Jackson's 'Beat It,' to helping Madonna look her best, Paterson has done it all. Kristen and Hannah are very grateful to have connected with him. Not only does he have such an impressive career, but he remains humble and kind in nature! Tune in to learn more; and don't miss checking out his memoir, 'Icons and Instincts."

We welcome the free spirited Marisa f. Ballaro! Whether it is teaching, dancing, or choreographing, she exudes light and positivity in all that she does. Marisa's two favorite quotes will give you a sneak peak on what she is all about: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson and "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."-Oscar Wilde

If you want to learn and/or get involved with Marisa's company, Ballaro dance, please visit her website, https://www.ballarodance.com/

We welcome the multi-faceted Mark Santillano! Kristen and Hannah had the opportunity to learn more about their former professor's career. If you are curious about how to incorporate many artistic pursuits into a career, then this is a story worth listening to! He is one-of-a-kind and moves to the beat of his own drum. There is never a dull moment when speaking with this re(mark)able man!

This episode features the extraordinary Kitty Lunn--dancer, teacher, disability activist, and founder of the Infinity Dance Theatre, a company which features dancers with disabilities. Her story is truly inspirational; where there's a will, there's always a way! Thank you, Kitty, for your vulnerability sharing your triumphs and tribulations, and paving the way for more inclusivity in dance.