Pursuing a career or post secondary education in dance are topics of discussion we’ve navigated in other podcasts. We’ve questioned and challenged the stereotypes associated with pursuing a career and/or post secondary training in dance, while trying to dissect and determine factors that influence and contribute them. Today’s discussion will focus on the career of the professional dancer. It is well known that the career of a professional dancer is often short lived, but why? Is the longevity of a career as a professional dancer based on societies expectations surrounding what they want to see on stage or are the factors related to limitations of the body after a demanding 30-40+ years of elite training?  Today we will address ageism in dance. Does it exist and if yes, is it only professional dancers that experience ageism or do dance teachers also experience it, in this physically demanding career? Does a professional career in dance need to end early, or can we increase its longevity? How can we promote careers in dance that are free from age biases, stable and can support a family financially? Can we change the publics perception to see beauty of an ageing dancer? We will discuss these questions and more today with the help of an adjunct professor of dance at Marymount Manhattan College Ms. Kristine Bendul.

GUEST: Kristine Bendul is a performer, choreographer and master instructor based in New York City. As a performer Kristine has appeared in seven Broadway shows including Roger’s and Hammerstein’s Cinderella and Twyla Tharp’s shows Movin’ Out. She has appeared in several television productions including performances on the David Letterman Show and the Academy Awards. Kristine studied at numerous prestigious ballet schools including the School of American Ballet, Boston Ballet and New Jersey Ballet where she became a demi-soloist with the company by age 16. She holds numerous awards and titles as a professional performer including Disco America’s 1st place championships and America’s First professional male-female couple to compete in the gender-neutral category of professional Dancesport ballroom. Kristine has guest taught at the Julliard School, the University Of Michigan and Santa Clara University and is currently working as an Adjunct Professor for Marymount Manhattan College’s Theatre Arts Daily Dance Program.

INSTA: @kbendulny

TWIT: @kbendul

LINKEDIN: Kristine Bendul

WEBSITE: kristinebendul.com

Disclaimer: Any and all ideas and information presented in the following podcast are those of the presenter. The presenter is not an employee or representative of Dance Education Canada (DEC), and is participating in this podcast on a voluntary basis. The ideas and information they express do not necessarily represent the views of the DEC or its partners, employees or affiliates. The ideas and information expressed herein are for general educational purposes only. They should not necessarily be applied to specific individual situations. DEC recommends consulting an expert or professional regarding specific medical, legal or business concerns. DEC makes no representations about the accuracy or suitability of this content. Please note that Canada's National Academy of Dance Education is now operating as Dance Education Canada.