The Artist Behind the Art

What is it actually like to be part of the creation of a brand-new Cirque du Soleil production?

In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, host Jennifer Pierce sits down with Alexis Bernatchez to unpack the realities of show creation from the performer’s perspective. From AXEL to Canadian contemporary circus companies, Alexis shares how characters are discovered, how ideas are born (sometimes from “failed” moments), and why honesty and adaptability are essential skills in any creation room.

Together, they explore what directors actually look for in artists during creation, how performers can stay open when work is cut or reimagined, and why being yourself isn’t just encouraged — it’s required.

In this episode, we cover:

• What’s planned vs. discovered in a brand-new show creation
• How performers contribute creatively beyond their discipline
• Why mistakes and “messy” moments are part of the process
• Adapting from rehearsal spaces to massive arena stages
• Managing pressure, checkpoints, and high-stakes feedback
• The role of authenticity, clown work, and stage presence
• What truly makes a performer valuable in a creation environment

Key takeaway:
Creation isn’t about proving perfection — it’s about showing up honestly, staying flexible, and allowing your true strengths to shape the work.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer sits down with aerialist, performer, and educator Dan Saab to talk about what it really looks like to build a circus career without a rulebook.

Dan shares how he went from studying Theatre in college to working in circus full-time, performing in everything from cabaret and nightlife to large-scale productions and theme park shows — all while traveling as a sought-after workshop instructor.

Together, they unpack how to navigate your path when “I want to be in Cirque du Soleil” isn’t enough of a plan, how to think about which gigs and contracts are actually a good fit, and why understanding the whole production — not just what happens onstage — makes you a stronger collaborator.

They also explore the tension many artists feel between sharing their skills as a teacher and maintaining their own unique style, how to set boundaries without burning bridges, and why asking for advice from more experienced artists is one of the most powerful tools you have.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Dan’s journey from psychology and public health major to Theatre and finally circus
• How a single aerial hoop performance at Edinburgh Fringe helped him reconnect to circus
• Why understanding lighting, rigging, and production makes you a better performer
• The struggle artists face with long-term goals vs. short-term, actionable steps
• How mentorship and guidance can save you years of trial and error
• Balancing teaching and performing — and why style and vocabulary are not the same thing
• Knowing when a contract or location is not a good fit (and learning that only by living it)
• How to think about long-term opportunities vs. the “shiny” short-term gig
• Simple ways to protect your energy, reset your nervous system, and stay grounded on the road
• Why newer artists should ask more questions about rates, contracts, and rigging safety

If you’re building a circus or performing arts career and you’ve ever thought, “I wish someone would just tell me how this works,” this conversation will give you clarity, reassurance, and a lot to think about.

🔗 Stay Connected

• Follow the podcast on Instagram: @theartistbehindtheart
• Follow Jennifer and Arete: @Arete.ActDevelopment
• Learn more about Dan: @dan_saab 

If this episode resonated with you, share it with another artist who needs to hear it — and don’t forget to leave a quick review so more performers can find these conversations.

Mentorship matters — and if you’re ready to strengthen your materials and show up more confidently for casting, this is for you.

Castable begins this Monday.
Over three days, we’ll break down how casting actually views your submissions, what helps you stand out, and how to present yourself with clarity and professionalism.

🔗 Sign up via the link on the podcast’s Instagram page or at Arete Act Development.
🎥 Can’t attend live? All sessions will be recorded and sent out.

If this episode resonated with you, share it with another artist who could benefit — this community grows when we grow together.

🎧 The Artist Behind the Art — where clarity meets momentum.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Presence That Connects: Four Ways to Stand Out Without Saying a Word

In this episode, we’re breaking down the often-overlooked skill that separates solid performers from unforgettable artists:
the way you show up before you ever speak.

Choreographers, casting teams, and directors aren’t just watching what you do — they’re paying attention to how you enter the room, how you engage, and what your presence communicates.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why appearance isn’t about being “perfect”—it’s about signaling readiness

Your clothing, grooming, and outward presentation are visual cues that communicate respect for the space, confidence, and professionalism.

2. How posture becomes your first introduction

You’ll hear how your physical stance can shift your internal state — and why standing with presence actually changes how others experience you.

3. The power of expression & eye contact

We explore how micro-moments of connection build trust, show engagement, and set you apart during notes, auditions, and collaboration.

4. Why acknowledgment is your secret collaboration skill

Energy isn’t one-directional — it’s an exchange.
 A nod, a smile, or a thoughtful response says:
 “I see you. I hear you. I’m with you.”

And that is what casting remembers.

If you want to elevate not just your talent but your professionalism, your impact, and your presence — this episode is your roadmap.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Charting Your Path with Casting Director Stacy Clark

Episode snapshot

Former elite gymnast and pro circus artist Stacy Clark ( Former Director of Casting at Cirque du Soleil) joins me to unpack how artists actually get seen, get hired, and build careers that fit their lives. We talk personalized career paths (with or without circus school), where to network so it counts, the video materials that make casting care, and how to stay on the radar—while being a great human to work with.

What you’ll learn

• There’s no single “right” path. Map the route that fits your strengths, timing, and life context.
• Clarity first, outreach second. Know your end game so your networking and submissions are strategic.
• Video is the driver. What reels help you get noticed (and what never gets used to hire).
• Range vs. identity. Show elastic range without being “everything to everyone.”
• Stay visible while working. Update casting and contacts without going radio silent.
• Humans hire humans. Reliability, communication, and presence are tie-breakers.

Conversation highlights (guide, not strict timestamps)

• 01:00 — Debunking the “magic door” myth: many paths into the industry
• 06:30 — Self-assessment without comparison: defining your strengths + end game
• 12:40 — Where to show up (festivals, hubs, digital) and how to network with intention
• 20:15 — Your materials: teaser vs. full act vs. general demo (and when to use each)
• 28:10 — Showing range the smart way (elasticity without losing your voice)
• 35:00 — Submitting while on contract: when it’s strategic vs. a time-waster
• 41:20 — Staying on the radar: simple update cadence that respects everyone’s time
• 48:00 — The “good human” factor: coachability, follow-through, and fit

Stacy’s quick wins

• Make them care: Lead with the video that best proves how you perform—not just what you can do.
• Tailor, don’t spray: Curate submissions to the actual need; show why you’re a fit.
• Keep a living intro: A tight, practiced 20–30s self-intro (and a short written bio) ready to go.
• Update light, but regular: Short, no-ask emails when you wrap, start, or become available.

Action steps for this week

1. Define your aim: Write your current “end game” in one sentence.
2. Audit your video kit: Ensure you have (a) a full uncut act, (b) a clean general demo, (c) a short teaser.
3. Draft your 30s intro: Who you are, what you do, what makes it you.
4. List 5 touchpoints: Festivals, studios, or decision-makers to update or meet in the next 30 days.

About Stacy Clark

Stacy is a creative performance strategist, freelance casting director, career coach, and artistic advisor. She’s cast for premier circus/live-entertainment companies worldwide, works 1:1 with artists on act design and career mapping, and frequently moderates industry panels. Previously, she spent 13 years at Cirque du Soleil as talent scout, acrobatic coach, and Director of Casting.

Stay connected

• Podcast IG: @theartistbehindtheart
• Work with me / coaching & resources: @Arete.ActDevelopment
  If this episode helped, share it with a fellow artist and leave a quick review—it helps more performers find practical tools beyond training and technique.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Your energy walks in before you do — and it’s often the quiet reason you get noticed, rehired, and remembered.

In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, Jennifer dives into one of the most overlooked skills in a performer’s toolkit: the ability to generate and direct your energy with intention.

Drawing on Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor’s wisdom — “Please take responsibility for the energy you bring into the room” — this episode explores how your physical, mental, and alignment energy shape every interaction you have, from auditions to rehearsals to daily life.

You’ll learn:

• How to recognize and shift the energy you bring into high-stress spaces like auditions
• Why emotional contagion is real — and how your energy literally shapes the atmosphere around you
• The difference between reacting and responding with purpose
• Three key types of energy that help you show up calm, grounded, and magnetic
• And how to become the person people love working with again and again

Because your talent gets you in the room — but your energy is what makes people want you back.

🎧 Tune in and start redefining what it means to “show up.”
 Follow @Arete.ActDevelopment for more insights, tools, and upcoming mentorships designed to help you become the artist people remember.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Today we’re diving into a topic that’s both ambitious and extremely practical: what it really looks like to pursue a college degree or take online courses while performing professionally on contract.

First things first—never forget your job is to be a performer. A class, test, or assignment should never interfere with your responsibilities on stage. That’s a non-negotiable. Setting a hard boundary around that will protect your career and your integrity.

But here’s why this is a conversation worth having:

·       You will never regret investing in yourself and continuing to learn.

·       The ability to build toward your future while performing gives you more freedom in what comes next.

·       I know artists who are now psychologists and lawyers—and they started their academic journey while balancing a full time performance career.

This episode is for you if:

·       You don’t want to miss out on a performance career but getting a degree is also non-negotiable.

·       You want to build something alongside your performance career—not instead of it.

·       You believe you can do both—with intention.

💡 I’d love to hear what you’re navigating right now — find me on Instagram at @theartistbehindtheart. And don’t miss what’s coming: I’m kicking off a free 3-day artist mentorship with 👉 @Arete.ActDevelopment, focused on strengthening your submission materials.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Have you ever come home from a tour and felt… off? One day you’re in the rhythm of shows, surrounded by your cast family, and the next you’re back home wondering what to do with the sudden space. That “in-between” can either drain you — or it can become one of the most rewarding parts of your career.

In this episode, I’m breaking down how to turn the gap into a season of rest, growth, and possibility — instead of uncertainty.

Here’s what we’ll cover:
 ✨ Why transitions after a big project or tour can feel so unsettling.
 ✨ What we can learn from athletes like Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles, who talk about the importance of having a plan for what comes next.
 ✨ Simple, practical ways to create structure in the in-between — from workshops, new training, and creative projects to rest, travel, and reflection.
 ✨ Why staying connected with your cast and community can help you move through the shift with more support.

Because without a plan, the gap can feel empty. With one, it becomes an opportunity to recharge and refocus so you’re ready for what’s next.

💡 I’d love to hear what you’re navigating right now — find me on Instagram at @theartistbehindtheart. And don’t miss what’s coming: I’m kicking off a free 3-day artist mentorship with 👉 @Arete.ActDevelopment, focused on strengthening your submission materials.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Life on tour isn’t just about what happens under the spotlight — it’s about how you take care of yourself in between shows. In this episode of The Artist Behind the Art, I’m sharing what it really takes to set yourself up for a long-term contract that feels sustainable, rewarding, and unforgettable.

We’ll dive into:

·       🥗 Fueling like an athlete — how to think ahead with nutrition, supplements, and fueling strategies so you can stay strong and consistent on stage.

·       🏋️ Training with purpose — why your growth doesn’t have to stall on tour, and how to use limited time and space to maintain skills, build strength, and prepare for future opportunities.

·       🌙 Thriving in downtime — how to plan hobbies, learning opportunities, and personal anchors so your off-hours feel restorative, not empty.

·       🔄 Weekly resets — a simple check-in ritual to help you adapt, adjust, and finish your contract strong.

Whether this is your first tour or your tenth, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to create a rhythm that keeps you healthy, grounded, and thriving both on and off the stage.

✨ If this episode resonates, share it with another artist who needs the reminder — and leave a quick review. Reviews help more performers find this show and get the kind of real-world support we rarely get in training.

➡️ Come hang out with me on Instagram: @theartistbehindtheart
for more tools and conversations.
➡️ And if you’re ready to work on your next big yes, follow @Arete.ActDevelopment
. I’ve got mentorships and resources designed to help you elevate your submission materials, refine your act, and thrive in this industry.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.

Contracts can launch your career — or leave you burned out. In this episode, I’ll share the three questions every performer should ask before hitting “submit,” plus stories and strategies to help you choose wisely, protect your body, and set yourself up for a long, thriving career.

Thanks so much for listening to The Artist Behind the Art.
This podcast exists to support performers in building sustainable, aligned, and castable careers — beyond just the skills.

✨ Work With Me: Own the Stage Act Creation Mentorship

I’m currently building the next round of Own the Stage: Act Creation Mentorship.

If you feel like you have the talent—but when it comes to act creation, something just isn’t fully clicking—this is for you.

Most of the time, it’s not a complete overhaul.
 It’s a few missing tools and a few shifts in how you’re approaching the process.

That’s what takes you from second-guessing your work
 to becoming the artist who is ready to go for the opportunities you actually want.

If that resonates, I’d love to connect.

📩 Email me at [email protected]

📲 Or DM me on Instagram at The Artist Behind the Art

🎙 Follow the podcast on Instagram:
 https://www.instagram.com/theartistbehindtheart/

Remember — you already have what it takes.
 The question is: are you ready to prove it to yourself?

Until next time — show up big and own the stage.