For far too long, the word “community” has been tossed around as a trendy buzzword, often diluted by vague interpretations and overuse, particularly in the world of dance. Add “online” to the mix, and we’re left navigating an even murkier sea of meaning. What does community really mean in the context of dance, and how can it be effectively cultivated in the digital age?

At the helm of Skool Dance is none other than Lauren Ashlee Messina, a trailblazing choreographer and passionate advocate for dance and connection. Lauren is a Big Easy Award-winning choreographer with a storied career spanning multiple dimensions of dance—performance, choreography, mentorship, and community-building. As the founder of Skool Dance, Lauren has reimagined what it means to create an online dance community. Her mission is to foster meaningful movement experiences that inspire empathy, transformation, and collaboration across disciplines.

In this episode, we unpack Lauren’s journey of building Skool Dance, the lessons she’s learned in fostering a vibrant online dance community, and her vision for the future. Along the way, we explore the essence of community itself and how dance can serve as a bridge between people in a rapidly evolving digital world. Welcome to Episode 6 of Season 3, Communing Dance in Skool.

• Lauren Ashlee Messina
• Skool Dance

Soundtracks:

1. Birds - Tyler Twombly
2. Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
3. Beyond the time - Main 7425

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Growing up in Malaysia, where arts and culture often faced censorship issues due to political sensitivities, I had limited exposure to unfiltered cultural reporting. That changed significantly when I discovered BFM, a business station that took the bold initiative to report, analyze, and bring Malaysia’s arts and culture scene to the masses. So in 2022 (yes, that long ago), I spoke with one of the most distinct and inspiring voices behind this transformation: Sharmilla Ganesan.

Sharmilla, with a BA in Media Studies from Murdoch University and an MA in Communication, Film Studies from RMIT University, is a writer, journalist, moderator, emcee as well as arts & culture critic with over 15 years of experience covering Malaysian culture. At BFM 89.9, she’s been the voice behind numerous shows that explore arts, literature and film. Highlights include anchoring the Evening Edition, the station's drivetime current affairs show which covers a huge variety of topics including politics, economy and human rights. Now, she plays an essential role as Content Manager at the Creador Foundation, where she helps pioneer innovative solutions for social impact in South and Southeast Asia - most notably, the Cipta Seni Incubator, which provides Malaysia-based performance artists with creative development resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

In this episode, we discuss the key nuances between radio broadcasting and podcasting, the role of media in preserving culture, and Sharmilla’s personal approach to sustaining her multi-faceted career with exceptional quality and consistency. While many things have changed in these last three years, one thing remains - radio will always have a place in the arts. Welcome to Episode 5 of Season 3, Podcast Killed the Radio Star.

• Sharmilla Ganesan
• Cipta Seni Incubator
• ASEF Guest Podcast

Soundtracks:

1. Birds - Tyler Twombly
2. Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
3. Rocket - QTM

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It takes a true dreamer to become a dancer, but grit and a bit of luck are often necessary to navigate this challenging world and bring that dream to life. Many dancers know the feeling—when everything seems to be falling into place, the universe can throw unexpected hurdles your way. That’s been my own experience, and it’s part of why Putting My Heels Down struck such a deep chord with me.

Kara Tatelbaum is a multifaceted dancer, choreographer, teacher, coach, writer, and caregiver who brings her whole self into everything she does. She has built a remarkable career performing and teaching in NYC and abroad, earning her BFA in Dance from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and an MFA in Choreography from SUNY Purchase. Early encouragement from her teachers led Kara to choreograph at a young age, eventually founding her own company, *independentdancemaker | Kara Tatelbaum, in 2000. Her work has been showcased at numerous venues, including DanceNow/NYC, the Gibney Center, Joyce SoHo, and internationally at the Shanghai Expo.

In this episode, I dive into my first-ever book review as we explore the incredible journey of New York’s own Kara Tatelbaum, who beautifully intertwines her personal story with universal experiences in a captivating read for dancers of all ages and backgrounds.. Welcome to Episode 4 of Season 3, Putting My Heels Down.

• Kara Tatelbaum
• Putting My Heels Down
• Book Review

Soundtracks:

1. Birds - Tyler Twombly
2. Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
3. 6:00 - DarkSunn

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With the boom in dance universities and academies worldwide over the past two decades, aspiring dancers today may feel spoiled for choice. Yet, identifying true gems among these institutions is crucial for those seeking professional training backed by top educators to shape their futures.

Hence why, I explored these crucial choices with Angela Pickard, a dynamic curriculum builder and innovative thinker who became the UK's first Professor of Dance Education in 2021. Angela is the Director of the Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health within the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Social Care, the Route Lead for the MA Arts, Health and Performance, and the Director of the Hub for Practice-Based Research in the Arts at the School of Creative Arts and Industries. With a background as a dancer, choreographer, practitioner, and academic, Angela brings a wealth of experience in arts research, particularly dance and movement practices, along with a dedication to exploring the relationship between the arts and physical, psychological, social, and artistic outcomes.

In this episode, Angela and I delve into the art of policy-making and education reform, sharing the lessons that have shaped her mission to enhance the dance and performing arts learning environment. Welcome to Episode 3 of Season 3, Contexting Education Policy and Reform.

• Angela Pickard
• Critical Dance Pedagogy Network
• Canterbury Christ Church University

Soundtracks:

1. Birds - Tyler Twombly
2. Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
3. Fjords - Treasurseason

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Alexandra Beller is a choreographer, director, teacher, and writer who has worn many hats throughout her career, and was widely known as a member of the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company between 1995-2001. Since then, she has become a mentor and coach, guiding creators and performers on their professional journeys.

She is also the Artistic Director of Alexandra Beller/Dances, an arts organization that has evolved from a performance and education company into a hub that supports artistic growth and well-being through workshops, showings, and creative gatherings. Her choreography has been featured on renowned platforms across the U.S., as well as internationally in South Korea, Hong Kong, Norway, Cyprus, and Poland, with venues including the Institute for Contemporary Art in Boston, The Yard in Martha's Vineyard, Jacob’s Pillow, and more.

In this episode, we take a closer look at Alexandra’s kaleidoscopic journey, exploring how she seamlessly navigates her various roles while maintaining a career of the highest standards as all of Choreographer, Educator and Entrepreneur. Welcome to Episode 2 of Season 3, Anatomy of Choice.

• Alexandra Beller
• Alexandra Beller/Dances

Soundtracks:

1. Birds - Tyler Twombly
2. Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk
3. Makaih Beats - FakeLove

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After dedicating the past three years to exploring the world of dance through two full seasons focused on its most innovative pioneers and trailblazers, it’s time to shift gears toward a select few who embody multidisciplinary artistry at its finest. To kick off this third and final season, we delve into the journey of a remarkable artist known for his seamless transition between performer, educator, and creator — Swedish-born Winston Reynolds.

Winston began his training at Circomedia in the UK, where he studied acrobatics and physical theatre (FDA, 2010-2012). He later earned his bachelor’s degree from ACAPA (Academy of Circus and Performance Art, Netherlands, 2012-2016), specializing in acrobatic dance — a unique hybrid drawing from gymnastics, capoeira, breakdancing, and martial arts. During his studies, he engaged in extensive research around acrobatic contact partnering under the guidance of Alexander Vantournhout, who played a pivotal role in refining Winston's movement practice.

As we embark on a brand new season of exploring influential voices from both today and tomorrow, we invite you to join us in uncovering the key lessons that have shaped Winston Reynolds' professional journey and his innate ability to traverse diverse fields with grace and precision. Welcome to Episode 1 of Season 3, A Depth Within.

• Winston Reynolds
• Ferus Animi // Terra Nova
• YouTube Catalogue

Soundtracks:

1. Bee Mine - Action Davis
2. Birds - Tyler Twombly
3. Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

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Bonuses don't end with just the one, as we have yet another fascinating character to introduce to the Background family. What does ageing actually mean in dance? To tackle an issue haven't discussed on this platform, we spoke to a fellow Asian born - Sharon Brach.

Sharon is a highly versatile dancer, instructor, and choreographer on the back of a distinguished career that spans Asia, the US, and Europe. After rigorous training in Manila, she graced prominent stages and appeared on television before moving to the United States, where she refined her artistry at STEPS on Broadway and the Broadway Dance Center. She joined the faculty of the Shirley Martin Dance Company in Los Angeles, taught multiple genres, and coached competitive teams at renowned studios including Bodies in Motion NY, ACT 1 School of Dance, and Dance Arts. Brach is the founder of the Kulmbach Dance Center in Bavaria, Germany, where she also works as a teacher and choreographer. As an author, Brach has self-published several children's books, many of which are bilingual editions to help with English as a Second Language (ESL).

Not often do we come across Asians making it in Europe and who also offer such depth to their career outlooks. If you're ever feeling a little too old to dance, think again! Welcome to Bonus Episode 2 of Season 3, Growing Older, Dancing Deeper.

• Sharon Brach
• Kulmbach Dance Center
• Unicorn Books

Soundtracks:

• Background Music Soft Calm - lNPLUSMUSIC
• Birds - Tyler Twombly
• Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

Support the show

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• S2 Summer SALE!
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Like what we do? Help us grow by

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Before diving into yet another fascinating season of dance changemakers, we first have some bonus episodes to wet your appetite! Season 3 is primarily about multi-faceted artists who wear many hats and are brilliant at them all. When the opportunity to host an inaugural LIVE book review presented itself, I duly accepted the challenge to tell choreographer, educator and author, Janaea Rose Lyn.

Janaea's focus is on creating and facilitating work that reflects timeless human experience through timely personal stories. Her book, Choreographing Your Dance Career (CYDC), is a handbook and resource for dancers and educators in any style or career stage. As an advocate, she is committed to strengthening dance communities by fostering dialogue, providing choreographic and career feedback, connecting artists, and encouraging the creative exchange of ideas and opportunities.

If The Background Dancer is the Yellow Pages of dance, CYDC is essentially your daily workbook to level up! Welcome to Bonus Episode 1 of Season 3, Choreographing Your Dance Career .

• Janaea Rose Lyn
• Choreographing Your Dance Career
• Duncan Archive

Soundtracks:

1. KVZE - Buddies4danite
2. Birds - Tyler Twombly
3. Poison Ivy Yard Work - Uncle Milk

Support the show

Like our offers?

• S2 Summer SALE!
• Check out our new Dance Masterclass YouTube review
• Sign up for Dance Masterclass
• Choreographing Your Dance Career by Janaea Rose Lyn
• Try Nord VPN

Like what we do? Help us grow by

• Visiting The Background Dancer
• YouTube Channel
• Rate and review here
• Email me at backgrounddancer.jy@gmail.com
• Answer a survey
• Sign up here to receive future updates
• Leave a thought on Facebook and Instagram
• Join the Facebook group and introduce yourself as a member of our community