The Dance Talks Podcast

The Dance Talks Podcast

By Dance Talks - Hosted by Al HellerArtsPerforming Arts
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The Dance Talks Podcast episodes

  • Resilience in the Limelight with Angelica Zuenko

    Angelica Zuenko had her eyes set on a professional ballet career from a young age. When she moved away from her parents and was put into a highly competitive, professional program, Angelica encountered some setbacks that ultimately led to her putting her career on hold. Tune in to find out how she overcame her setbacks and what this young, talented performer has her eyes set on now.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Angelica Zuenko

    Angelica Zuenko is one to watch out for. From training to be a professional dancer to setting her sights on success in aerial and theatre, Angelica can do it all. The pressures of being a professional ballerina caused Angelica to have a severe eating disorder and re-evaluate her goals. Now, Angelica is ready to tackle the performing arts world in many different facets and make a name for herself as an artist.

    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    40 min
  • Tarantella, Italian Dances & More with Anna Harsh

    Author, Director and Podcaster, Anna Harsh joins DanceTalks to enlighten us on her passion in life, Italian cultural dance! Anna has travelled across Italy as well as the United States sharing her passion and doing extensive research on the art form. Anna's company, Allegro Dance Company, has travelled to perform at fesitvals and events across North America in the hopes of sharing Italian cultural dance with many others. Anna is also an author of two books as well as the host of a podcast called The Dance Floor.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Anna Harsh

    Anna Harsh is paving her own lane when it comes to cultural dance. Anna has devoted her time to unveil and preserve Italian cultural dance in today's society. Anna has travelled to many different parts of Italy and has embraced and learned many different types of dances which she explains throughout the episode. In an effort to preserve the crafts, Anna has created a documentary as well as written two different books which shine light on Italian cultural dance and all that is has to offer.

    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    33 min
  • From Yale to Professional Ballet with Louis DeFelice

    Louis DeFelice joins Al to talk all things ballet. From where Louis started to how he got to be an audio technician to a Yale graduate to ultimately a professional ballet dancer and entrepreneur. Louis gives some insights into the ballet world and why it has him hooked. From its rich history to its athletic challenges, Louis never fails to find ways to keep the art form interesting and engaging for himself.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Louis DeFelice

    Louis DeFelice is a Professional Ballet Dancer origianlly from South Carolina. From what started as an interest in Jazz and tumbling quickly turned into a love and passion for Ballet. Louis has been travelling the world working as a professional ballet dancer and entrepeneur. He has started two companies, Barre Trash and The Dancers' List. Also, don't forget to check out his socials for some funny content.

    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    47 min
  • We Came to Slay with Shawn Byfield

    Longtime DanceBUG Channel friend, Shawn Byfield is back and he did not come to play. Shawn and Al dive deep into the competitive dance world. They discuss what changes they would like to see and how the competitive scene needs to adapt to current times. Shawn also promotes his new book, You Came To Slay" and provides a few 5 essential skills that every dancer needs to be able to slay this dance season.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Shawn Byfield

    Shawn Byfield is a leader in the entertainment industry. As one of the most sought-after dance and performance coaches in the nation, Shawn's mission is to revolutionize classrooms, inspire greatness in seasoned and aspiring artists, and make learning fun! He's a Dora Mavor Moore Award winner, Certified Public Speaker, two-time Black Canadian Awards nominee, certified coach and trainer through John Maxwell Leadership, Author and a Gemini Award nominee. His expertise and advise on all things dance and entertianment are not to be missed!


    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    43 min
  • Going Back to Great with Miller Daurey

    Is it possible to go back to something that you were once great at? After dancing with Paula Abdul and the Joffrey Ballet, Miller decided to quit dance altogether. Now, 25 years later, he is documenting his journey back into the dance world. Join us as we dive in deep with Miller about his stacked resume, his docuseries, Back to Great and ultimately, his return to dance.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Miller Daurey

    Miller Daurey is an ex-pro dancer from California and got his break on the hit TV show Star Search. After the show, Miller got a full scholarship to the Joffrey Ballet where he landed the role of principal dancer without much formal ballet training. Miller also danced with Paula Abdul before quitting dance and pursuing a career in acting. Find out whats bringing Miller back to his dancing roots.


    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    40 min
  • Exploring the Children's Book 'Dance Eva Dance' with Author Wendy Coates

    Al sits down with Self-Published Author, Wendy Coates to discuss the journey of creating her sucessful children's book, Dance Eva Dance. After experiencing rejection in the publishing world, Wendy explains that her determination and belief in her book is what led her to the success she has today. Tune in to hear Wendy explain the process of creating a book, the motivation behind the story and much more.


    ✨ About Our Guest: Wendy Coates

    Wendy Coates is a Dance Mom turned Self- Published Author. Wendy drew inspiration from her dancing daughter and her neice to create an uplifting children's book called Dance Eva Dance.


    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    24 min
  • Musical Theatre Production with Victoria Wells-Smith

    Victoria Wells-Smith discusses how she got into the world of theatre from a young age. She sheds light on Terra Bruce Productions which just finished producing Let's Dance the Musical in Canada. Victoria also spills the tea on what's next for Terra Bruce Productions.


    ✨ About Our Guest: Victoria Wells-Smith

    Victoria Wells-Smith is a producer, director, choreographer, writer and actor who has worked across Canada. She is the choreographer and Creative Producer for Let's Dance the musical which is currently playing through Terra Bruce Productions. Victoria has worked on the rock for CBC, Rogers Television, Rock Island Productions, Theatre St. John’s and more. Her Canadian credits include Nomadic Pictures, The National Ballet of Canada and the Alberta Ballet just to name a few. Victoria is very well versed in the dance world and beyond which has led her to have a very successful career so far.

    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    28 min
  • Healing Through Dance with Dr. Niraj Mehta

    Dr. Niraj Mehta's outlook on dance and functional movement as an Oncologist is something not to be missed. Dr. Mehta explains how movement and repeating steps, otherwise known as choreography can decrease chances of dementia and increase your quality of life. Niraj, or Raj as his friends call him, is extremely passionate about dance. He explains how he got into movement and dancing and what his program, Making Moves Universal aims to accomplish.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Dr. Niraj Mehta

    Dr. Niraj Mehta is an Oncologist and Professional Choreographer currently based in Florida. Dr. Mehta was awarded the American College of Radiation Oncology Best Fellowship Award for “Fostering a Global Perspective of Oncology.” On top of being an oncologist, Dr. Mehta is the founder of Making Moves Universal, an international program which combines the spirit of mindful movement and popular music to improve life situations for those with chronic illness. Making Moves Universal combines the physical benefits of movement with stress reduction techniques which can help those suffering feel love, belonging, and purpose. Dr. Mehta is truly making a difference in the lives of his patients by not only providing physical treatment but spiritual and emotional treatment as well.


    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    30 min
  • TikTok and "Taboo" Topics with Jamie White

    Jamie is known for their candid and direct approach when expressing thoughts and opinions about the dance world. They are a refreshingly straightforward voice unafraid to tackle the dance community's most pressing issues. In this interview, Al and Jamie explore a few significant challenges that Jamie believes are currently affecting the dance scene. They also talk a little bit about Jamie's dance background and her thoughts on the effects of social media on kids.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Jamie White
    Jamie White is a dance teacher, competition adjudicator, and social media influencer. From serious topics like eating disorders to lighthearted dance commentary, critiques, and tips Jamie doesn't hold back their thoughts and opinions and it leaves their online community begging for more. They have over 550k followers on TikTok and 13K on Instagram. Follow Jamie @ja.lw - you won't be disappointed.

    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    29 min
  • Overcoming Doubts and Challenges with Ezra Sosa

    Ezra Sosa talks about the struggles he faced growing up as a gay male dancer in Utah, his experience touring with Jojo Siwa and his time on So You think You Can Dance as well as Dancing with the Stars.

    ✨ About Our Guest: Ezra Sosa
    Ezra Sosa is a professional dancer originally from Utah where he started dancing at the age of 2. His talents and abilities have landed him titles such as NYCDA Regional's winner and three-time BYU national Pre-Teen Latin Champion. You might recognize Ezra from Season 16 of So You Think You Can Dance where he made it to the top 6 or from his gig as a troop member on Dancing With The Stars. Ezra has also appeared in numerous national tours, movies, commercials and other TV shows, including America’s Got Talent and World of Dance. Ezra’s versatility and ability to adapt to all styles of dance have truly put him on the right trajectory to an incredibly successful career in the dance world and he's only 22.

    At DanceBUG Channel, we’re bringing dance stories to life by providing a platform where they can all live together under one roof. A place where performers and creators can share their stories, knowledge, and ideas and inspire the world through movement.  DanceBUG Channel provides original and acquired entertainment and educational content that celebrates dance in all its glory. We believe that dance is for everyone. It truly is a universal language and whether you realize it or not, dance is everywhere. Just look around and we promise you’ll see it in more places than you were expecting!  DanceBUG Channel is brought to you by DanceBUG Inc., the #1 dance media production company in the world. We are shaping the future of dance media through industry leading technology, continued innovation, and unparalleled customer service.

    ▶️ Watch full episodes FOR FREE on: https://dancebugchannel.com/

    Follow DanceBug Channel on Social Media!

    ▶️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancebugchannel/

    ▶️TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancebugchannel 

    29 min

About The Dance Talks Podcast

From the publisher's feed

We are diving in deep with dance industry professionals talking about their backgrounds, and experiences, and having meaningful conversations about the hottest topics in the dance industry. Whether…