The Acrobatic Arts Podcast

Dive into an exciting conversation as Mandy Yip, Founder of Acrobatic Arts, shares her insights on the upcoming North America Teacher Training Tour and the exhilarating dance expos this summer! Mandy shares her passion for connecting with dance teachers, unveiling her favorite parts of the season, and offering invaluable tips for maximizing your expo experience. Don't miss out on Mandy's insights into trending tricks, Ready Set Acro, and much more. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and practical advice for all dance educators!

Plus, don't miss out on our exciting contest where we're giving away $2,500 in expo passes! Enter by June 14/24 for a chance to win - contest details on our Facebook & Instagram!

Mandy Yip, Acrobatic Arts Founder
With over 350,000 dancers participating in Acrobatic Arts classes every week, Mandy Yip manages the delivery of training programs and the Acrobatic Arts syllabus in over 65hundred dance studios around the world. She also created the most comprehensive and researched Acrobatic Arts Curriculum, as well as innovative apps such as the AcroDance Resource Center. Mandy is a highly sought-after industry expert, known for her engaging workshops and clinics across North America, Europe, and Australia.

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Acrobatic Arts: https://www.acrobaticarts.com

Discover the intricate journey of mastering the handstand forward roll, where flexibility meets strength, control, and unwavering determination. Join Acrobatic Arts expert teacher Jill Ford as she shares her top tips behind this challenging skill and guides you through effective teaching methods for your students. Jill shares indispensable tips, drills, and pitfalls to avoid, drawing from her extensive experience as a seasoned acro instructor. This episode is packed with valuable insights.

About Jill

Jill was originally from Regina, Saskatchewan where she danced competitively in the areas of ballet, jazz, tap, acrobatics and baton twirling for 17 years. She went on to teaching dance, baton and acrobatics in her home city and now resides in Edmonton, Alberta where she has opened her own studio specializing in Acrobatics and Baton Twirling. She completed her bachelor of Education (k-5) at the University of Regina which has furthered her expertise as an acrobatic and dance teacher. Jill has travelled the world as an athlete and coach representing Canada at 8 World Baton Twirling Championships and now continually is committed to keeping young children involved in the areas of acrobatics, dance and baton twirling. She is very happy and honoured to be part of the Acrobatic Arts staff and loves sharing her passion and knowledge with students and teachers!

Jill's credentials include: Bachelor of Education, Canadian Dance Teachers Association Certified Teacher, Canadian Baton Twirling Association Level 2 Coach, Inductee of the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame.

Need some visuals? Check out Jills's Weekly Mini presentation, Mastering Handstand Forward Roll with Jill Ford, on YouTube!

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Dive into our latest episode where Dr. Linda Bluestein returns for her fourth appearance on The Acrobatic Arts podcast. As May illuminates Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders, Dr. Bluestein takes center stage to debunk prevalent myths surrounding hypermobility. Join us as she dismantles misconceptions about pain, diagnosis, and the capabilities of individuals affected by these conditions, equipping listeners with invaluable clarity and understanding. Tune in now for a myth-busting journey through hypermobility with Dr. Bluestein!

Important Links

Bendy Bulletins: Bendy Bulletins are free, concise informational resources designed to improve the quality of life for those with hypermobility syndromes. Find out more: https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/bulletins

Hope for Hypermobility: Part 1—An Integrative Approach to Treating Symptomatic Joint Hypermobility
https://journals.lww.com/topicsinpainmanagement/Fulltext/2023/03000/Hope_for_Hypermobility__Part_1_An_Integrative.1.aspx
Hope for Hypermobility: Part 2—An Integrative Approach to Treating Symptomatic Joint Hypermobility
https://journals.lww.com/topicsinpainmanagement/Fulltext/2023/04000/Hope_for_Hypermobility__Part_2_An_Integrative.1.aspx

About Dr. Linda Bluestein

In addition to her private medical practice, Hypermobility MD, Dr. Bluestein is the founder and co-host of the podcast, Bendy Bodies with the Hypermobility MD, and former co-host of “Hypermobility Happy Hour.”

Dr. Bluestein is the Director of Education for the nonprofit, EDS Wellness, Inc. and founder and executive director of Bendy Bodies, an organization dedicated to empowering hypermobile performing artists.

She has published a number of original research papers; presents work at national and international conferences, and is a contributing author for the book, Disjointed - Navigating the Diagnosis and Management of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders.

Dr. Bluestein is a member of the Board of Directors for the Bridge Dance Project, the Allergy and Immunology Working Group for the International Consortium on EDS and HSD, the Advisory Board for Doctors for Dancers, and the Resources Committee for the Dance Healthy Alliance of Canada.

More information about Dr. Bluestein can be found on her website, www.hypermobilitymd.com.

Links:

Hypermobility MD

Hypermodbility MD Podcast

Bendy Bodies

Tune in to our latest episode featuring the incredible Karen Ritchie, esteemed faculty member at Acrobatic Arts, as she takes us on a captivating journey reflecting on her 20 years as a Rockette! From humble beginnings to dazzling performances on grand stages, Karen's story is uniquely enriched with versatility and dynamism, showcasing the seamless fusion of athleticism and grace. Listen now as she imparts her wisdom and experiences, inspiring the next generation of performers.

Karen Ritchie

Karen is a Canadian-born performer from Saskatchewan who spent her early years racing from the gym to the studio. She was a competitive artistic gymnast through the age of twelve, but when push came to shove, she chose to focus on dance. Her technical studies in tap, jazz, ballet, pointe and acro led her to a worldly dance career - from working as a dancer, tumbler and aerialist on cruise ships to performing multiple contracts at Tokyo Disney in Japan.

In 2005, Karen became a Radio City Rockette and has been thrilled to perform across the United States and Canada in the Christmas Spectacular ever since. Karen has appeared on NBC's the Today Show, the Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, the Rockefeller Tree Lighting, the Tony Awards, the MTV VMA's, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, America's Got Talent, the NBA All-Star Game and the Life Ball in Vienna, Austria. She can also be seen in the Hallmark movie “A Holiday Spectacular”, the Kasey Musgraves Christmas Show on Amazon Prime, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer and a number of television commercials.

Karen is on staff with Acrobatic Arts as a Course Conductor and Examiner and is also certified in Progressing Ballet Technique. She has taught master classes and workshops at Radio City Music Hall and Broadway Dance Center, as well as in New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Miami and Canada. When not performing, Karen resides in Florida spreading her love of dance, acrobatics and fitness with the Sunshine State!

Find Karen on IG: @KARENLRITCHIE

A&G Aerial Arts: https://www.agdanceacademy.com/aerial-arts/

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

We're diving into the world of teaching headstands. Whether you're a seasoned AcroDance teacher or just starting out, we've got some progressions that will take your dancers to the next level. Expert Teacher Meaghan Wegg shares invaluable tips and techniques to guide your beginner students! Which of these progressions will you incorporate into your next class?

Looking for some practical exercises with visuals? Check out Meaghan's Weekly Mini presentation, Headstand Progressions for Beginners, on YouTube!

Meaghan Wegg

Meaghan grew up dancing where she studied Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop and Acro. In 2001, Meaghan was accepted in to L'Ecole Nationale de Cirque in Montreal where she specialized in aerial hoop and contortion with additional training in Ballet, Contemporary and Modern. Upon graduation in 2005, Meaghan performed professionally as a principal dancer in many roles, including the cast of ‘Tomorrow' (Pigeons, International) and the cast of ‘Loft' (7 Fingers). From 2009 – 2012, Meaghan performed on tour globally with Cirque Du Soleil's ‘Quidam' as a feature aerialist.

Following an extremely successful performance career, Meaghan shifted her focus to coaching and choreography. In 2013 Meaghan graduated with a diploma from L'Ecole Nationale de Cirque (Montreal, Canada) with a major in Research of Acrobatics, and a minor in Hand to Hand partnering for dancers.

Currently she works as a private acrobatic coach and choreographer, and attracts students from around the world with a focus on career development, choreography and professional stage preparation. Meaghan founded Move With The Beat dance competitions in 2013. She is the Australia, New Zealand and Singapore Division manager for Acrobatic Arts since 2015. Most recently she has launched her Aerial Arts Online syllabus guiding teachers with her course for their students and class preparations. Meaghan started The Academy Circus as a local London, Ontario circus and acrobatic facility in 2017.

Meaghan recently has been hired for global choreographic projects in Australia, Montreal, France, China and India creating large scale shows for special events, Casino shows and year end performance university shows. She is passionate about welcoming everyone into the performance industry while sharing tips and tools about making it a reality. She is now an on call Artistic Coach with Cirque du Soleil. Meaghan is very happy to be settled in her home town of London Ontario with her small family!

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Join us for an enlightening episode as we delve into the significance of OFQUAL recognition for Acrobatic Arts UK with special guest Jennifer Shirkey. Discover how this accreditation elevates standards in dance education and opens new avenues for professional development. Jennifer shares insights into the journey toward OFQUAL approval and discusses the exciting future prospects for Acrobatic Arts in the UK. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the intersection of excellence, safety, and innovation in the world of AcroDance training!

Find out more about Acrobatic Arts Ofqual Recognition here: https://www.acrobaticarts.com/ofqual

Questions? Email Jennifer at [email protected]

About Jennifer Shirkey

Jennifer Shirkey is from Regina, Saskatchewan where she danced competitively in the areas of Ballet, Tap, Jazz and Acrobatic for 15 years. She successfully completed her majors in RAD Ballet and was accepted to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's summer program where she was given the opportunity to further develop her skills and dance technique.

She went onto the University of Saskatchewan to complete a bachelor's degree in International Studies and advanced certificate in Economics. She also studied abroad in Guatemala and completed a marketing internship in Madrid, Spain. Her career focus has been in sales, marketing and logistics.

While traveling the world over the last 15 years, Jennifer's passion for dance and the arts inspired her to attend dance classes to fulfill her love of dance. Today, she maintains her commitment and involvement in dance as a Ballet Barre Works instructor at Ballet Barre Works Studio and various other studios in Calgary.

Jennifer, is currently managing the UK Division and looks forward to supporting Acrobatic Arts' expansion into Europe in the near future.

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Acrobatic Arts:https://www.acrobaticarts.com/

Attention Dance Studio Owners! In this episode Acrobatic Arts Associate Director, Mark Nash shares invaluable insights on why Certification is a game-changer for studio owners. Whether you're seeking to boost your studio's reputation, attract more students, or simply stay ahead in the industry, Mark breaks down the essential reasons why Certification is a must. Tune in now and unlock the secrets to studio success with Acrobatic Arts!

Need some visuals? Check out Marks's Weekly Mini presentation, Why YOU Want to Certify as a Studio Owner with Mark Nash, on YouTube!

Mark is the Associate Director of Acrobatic Arts, as well as an acro adjudicator, educator and certified examiner. He enjoys choreography and has won the Josephine-Hermene Schwarz award as well as received commissions to choreograph repertory and full-length works for various dance companies throughout the US. He was a professional dancer and has danced for Dayton and Cincinnati Ballets, and Ballet West.

Mark is also an eight-time Men's World Baton Twirling Champion, and has taught numerous world champions as well. He values education and has Master's Degrees in Business and Arts Administration, as well as many dance related certifications. Mark is also a devoted husband and father of three, and lives in California.

Email: [email protected]

FB https://www.facebook.com/nashmark/

IG @nashmark23

Nash Twirling Academy https://www.nashtwirlingacademy.com

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Acrobatic Arts:https://www.acrobaticarts.com/

Dive into a must-listen episode for acrodance teachers who relish deep dive conversations about acro and its fundamental building blocks. Join host Loren Dermody and AcroDance guru Drew Burgess as they explore Drew's passion for balancing and limbering—the "quietest moments" of class. This rich and profound discussion promises invaluable insights to enhance your understanding and teaching of acro. Tune in for a deeply enriching conversation on the Acrobatic Arts Podcast!

About Drew Burgess

Ohio native, Drew made his industry debut on Live with Regis during Amazing Kids Week. Upon relocating to California, he trained at L.A.'s best studios including EDGE, Millennium, Fusion, and the PAC Annex. Drew is highly sought after as a performer, choreographer, guest teacher, dance supervisor, & dance captain. Drew can be seen on teaching & adjudication panels for: Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, Dance Teachers Club of Boston, Headliners, DanZa, 10+ Dance Masters of America Regional Chapters, Dance Educators of America, & the Rhee Gold Company. A former competitor himself, Drew's regional titles include Master, Junior, and Teen Mr. Dance of Ohio, as well as, Mr. Dance of the Pacific Coast. Nationally, Drew is a former Jr. Mr. Dance of America and Mr. Dance of America. Drew is certified by test to teach through DMA & DEA in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, & Acrobatics and is an active member in both organizations. Drew is also proud to be Acrobatic Arts Certified (M1-M3) & part of their U.S. Division Staff of Course Conductors & Examiners.

Drew's passion for dance circles the globe with guest workshop classes, technique clinics, & choreography, year-round. His corporate & live entertainment credits include performances with the Radio City Rockettes, Taylor Swift, & The Baha Men. Drew's students have accolades including: Teen Miss Dance of Arizona, Male Dancer of the Year, Miss Dance of Ohio, & Mr. Dance of America. His National Choreography merits include the Sherry Gold Memorial Choreography Award from DMA & Best Small Group & Production from NexStar. Drew has toured worldwide with Rasta Thomas' Bad Boys of Dance as a Swing in Rock the Ballet 2 and Romeo & Juliet. He was honored to serve as the Tap Director for four years at Spisak Dance Academy in Glendale, Arizona; and now resides in Columbus, Ohio and is part of of the teaching staff at Straub Dance Center.

Follow Drew on Instagram: @drewdances

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

In this insightful discussion, Kate Evans, Master Teacher and seasoned dance educator, emphasizes the crucial role of progressions in safe and effective skill development. Discover the significance of patient and progressive approaches, gain insights into injury prevention, and understand the nuanced journey of skill progression.

Kate's expertise provides a comprehensive view of dance education, making this episode a must-listen for those eager to enhance their understanding of skill development in the world of acro, aerial, and dance. Tune in now for a deeper dive into the foundations of lifelong success in dance!

About Kate Evans

Kate commenced her training at the age of 2 and danced throughout her entire childhood under the training of Maria Shanks. She trained in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary and musical theatre. Kate completed all examinations in classical ballet with the RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) and in all genres with Comdance including Jazz, Tap, Theatrical and Ballet.

Following this she trained full time at Brent Street Studios (Sydney) and completed her Certificate IV in Performing Arts.

After graduating from high school Kate was accepted into BA Medicine at University of NSW however deferred, and accepted the position at Brent Street Studios.
Kate recommenced her BA Medicine however transferred her focus into a Bachelor of Psychology after 2 years, completing and attaining the BA in Psychology at the Queensland University of Technology.

Kate has had a professional career and gone on to share her love of the performing arts and acrobatics/aerial arts through teaching students, professionals, certifying teachers, examining and adjudicating, at a range of locations both locally and globally. Kate has always had a passion and love for teaching and commenced teaching in her early teens. Whilst completing her Bachelor of Psychology Kate also attained dance teaching qualifications including Comdance Modern Jazz Teachers Diploma, Comdance Tap Teachers Diploma, Comdance Classical Ballet Teachers Diploma and Comdance Theatrical Teachers Diploma. Kate also attained her Certificate in Ballet Teaching with the Royal Academy of Dance and is currently a registered teacher for the RAD.

Kate now runs and manages her own Performing Arts and Acro and Aerial studio in QLD, Beats Per Minute Performing Arts, and Beats Per Minute Acro and Aerial. With over 22 years teaching experience Kate has trained students from the age of 2 years to Professional in all areas of dance, acrobatics, aerial and singing with many of her former students dancing and teaching professionally around the world in musicals, movies and cruise ships.

Kate is Alixa Flexibility Certified Module 1, 2, 3 and Course Conductor, delivering teacher certification courses to teachers globally. Kate also hold qualifications in Progressing Ballet Technique, Aerial Arts Hammock and Hoop certified teacher, and a Ready Set Dance and Ready Set Ballet licensee.

Module 3 certified, Kate is a Course Conductor and Examiner for Acrobatic Arts, and manages the Australia, New Zealand, and Asian divisions of Acrobatic Arts Examinations faculty. Kate is also Course Conductor and Office manager for Aerial Arts. Kate has a passion for the biomechanics of dance/acro/aerial and endorsing safe and progressive dance/acro/aerial training. Kate is honoured to be be apart of the Acrobatic Arts faculty and thrilled to be sharing her passion and knowledge with the next generation of students and teachers!

Beats Per Minute Performing Arts - https://www.instagram.com/beatsperminutepa/

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Get ready to uncover the dance magic behind The Library Aesthetic! In this episode, host Loren Dermody dives deep into a compelling conversation with visionary Josef Brown. Discover the inspiration fueling The Library Aesthetic's dance revolution, its Netflix-style subscription allure, and exclusive AcroDance insights! Tune in and let Josef Brown ignite your dance passion in this must-listen episode!

About Josef Brown

Josef's professional career began with the International Opera Company production of, Aida before he joined The Australian Ballet (Soloist), Modern Dans Topluluguu in Ankara, Turkey, Nomad Dance Theatre then Sydney Dance Company.

He performed in the GFO Production of Man of La Mancha, was Charlie Redding in Officer and a Gentleman and developed and played the iconic role of Johnny Castle in the original stage adaptation of, Dirty Dancing - the classic story on stage, which he toured throughout Australia and New Zealand, opened on London's West End and throughout the United States as part of the pre-Broadway tour (1500+ shows over 4.5 years).

Josef returned to Australia to take on the role of Patrick in the multi-Logie Award winning series, Dance Academy, Dale Canning on Home & Away, Auctus in Spartacus - Gods of the Arena, Daniel in Sam's Story before playing Matt Turner for over two years on the beloved Aussie drama, Neighbours.

More recently Josef played Graham King on Ms Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries, Dr. Mike on Home & Away and Bryce Anderson in the feature film, Buckley's Chance.

Josef was Associate Producer, Writer and Camera on the ABC TV documentary, Art, During Siege, Producer/Writer on the webisode series, At the Fork, co-founded CINEMOVES - a forum for dance & movement on screen and was a sitting member of the NSW Minstry of the Arts, Dance Board.

Josef was also a Writer on multiple episodes of NEIGHBOURS and has written numerous articles and interviews on dance for MDM Dancewear.

https://thelibraryaesthetic.com/
IG: @thelibraryaesthetic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094376723332

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com