"I think there's a level of acceptance that needs to come with being where you are because of what you're doing and not thinking that you're doing all you can and the world just hasn't rewarded you for your efforts yet."

Tali, explores her multifaceted career from commercial dance to choreography and beyond. Tali shares her journey through the dance scene, her transitions between different styles and companies, and how she manages her identity within the ever-evolving dance industry.

Tali is a renowned figure in the dance community known for her dynamic approach to hip hop theatre and commercial dance. With a career spanning over two decades, she has performed with notable artists like Pink, Rihanna, and Kylie, and has significantly contributed to dance education and choreography.

Contact Tali here:

Website

Instagram

"Compassion is what sets this whole thing apart."

In this episode, Rachel delves into the intricacies of Paul Gilbert’s model of compassion and its application to freelancers, particularly freelance dancers. Rachel, a student at the University of Salford, explores the psychological and physiological impacts of compassion, discussing how it can foster career longevity and well-being among freelance dancers.

Timestamps:

"Artist-led networks put the artist in charge, creating their own opportunities."

In this episode, we delve deep with Karen Wood, a seasoned dancer and researcher, into the intricacies of the dance community and freelance careers. Karen discusses her journey through dance, the significance of artist-led networks, and the challenges and opportunities within the dance sector.

Timestamps:

Guest Information:
Karen Wood - Dancer, Researcher, and Advocate for the dance community. Karen has extensive experience in both performing and academic aspects of dance, focusing on policy engagement and community-led initiatives.

Resources

https://www.mcrdansortium.com/

https://birminghamdancenetwork.co.uk/

https://freelancedance.uk/about/

"The compassionate approach isn't to say, 'This is too hard, let's just avoid it.' It's to turn towards that difficulty and find a way through."

"Taking a more compassionate approach is really helpful for managing some of the distress that will come up somewhat inevitably through some of those things that people like freelance dancers will face."

In this episode, Courtney Walton, a researcher and psychologist, discusses the importance of self-compassion in performance-oriented environments such as elite sports and performing arts. He explains how self-compassion can help performers manage distress, overcome perfectionism, and foster a supportive community. Courtney also shares practical strategies for developing self-compassion and highlights the need for compassionate approaches within training environments.

Timestamps:

Check Courtney's website here

"Learning to grieve a project is essential for creative rest."

"Your gift will make room for you."

In this episode, we chat with Dannielle Rhimes LeCointe, a prominent figure in the hip-hop theater and creative arts scene. In this episode, Dannielle discusses her transition from a performer in hip-hop theatre to a leadership role in the creative arts. She emphasises the importance of recognising and leveraging one’s strengths, dealing with creative fatigue through unique rest methods, and seeking support and mentorship. Dannielle also shares her journey into coaching, highlighting the value of reinvention and self-awareness for long-term career success.

Timestamps:

Dannielle's creative account

Dannielle's Biz account

"Creating a portfolio career that I'm proud of rather than one that just impresses others."

"The pressure to perform was so high"

In this episode, we speak with Hannah Miles, a dancer who has shifted her focus from technical perfection to finding joy and authenticity in her work. Hannah shares her journey in the dance sector, her experiences with freelancing, the importance of community, and her recent transition to working in the NHS while continuing her passion for dance. This conversation is filled with insights on maintaining a sense of self and well-being in the demanding world of dance.

Timestamps:

Resources:

https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/

https://www.onedanceuk.org/

Hannah's Instagram

"If you don't allow yourself to name what you want, it's very unlikely that it's gonna happen."

In this episode, we chat with Nicole, a principal dancer with Matthew Bourne's New Adventures and founder of The Performer Circle. Nicole shares her inspiring journey from starting ballet at four to becoming a professional dancer, and how a passion for fitness helped her navigate personal challenges and transitions in her career. We dive into her experiences with coaching, the importance of mental well-being, and how she maintains balance in her multifaceted life.

Nicole's instagram

"I think everybody needs to see themselves as equally capable of creating something good, as all the other names out there."

"In the hip hop community, the most important thing is how individual you are and how you develop your own voice."

In this episode, Vasilliki discusses her journey from hip hop and ballroom Latin to contemporary dance, emphasizing the importance of individuality and personal movement language. She reflects on the influence of the hip hop community, the challenges of freelancing, and the role of journaling and counseling in her artistic development. Through her unique path, Vasilliki inspires listeners to embrace their strengths and develop their own artistic voice.

Vasilliki's Instagram

"Freelancers with an understanding of compassion report improvements such as reconnecting with their creative selves and finding stability and fulfillment in diverse activities."

In this episode of the Mid-Project Ideas Podcast, Rachel, an MA Dance Performance and Professional Practices student at the University of Salford, delves into the complex world of freelance dance. Exploring the challenges freelance dancers face, Rachel examines how compassion and adaptive behaviors can contribute to career longevity. The episode features insights from coaches, researchers, and dancers, shedding light on the realities of freelancing, perfectionism, and self-identity within the dance industry.

Timestamps:

Resources & Links:

Reference List:

"It's always been about solving the problem and thinking, 'How can I resolve this?' rather than getting bogged down by it."

"Being a good person and having good communication skills can make or break your career."

In this episode, Faye Stoeser shares her experiences navigating the freelance dance industry, highlighting her journey through various dance styles and her transition into choreography. She discusses the importance of versatility, maintaining physical and mental well-being, and the value of community and relationships. Faye offers practical advice for sustaining a freelance dance career and handling the inevitable challenges and rejections with resilience and a positive mindset.

Timestamps:

Resources

Faye's instagram