Abun(dance)

This episode highlight the Washington Wizards dancer, Danielle Tuomey. Our time at Mercyhurst overlapped with Danielle’s and we were lucky to get to know her as a freshman during our senior year. Danielle is one of the kindest people and a captivating performer. She has been very busy post graduation and we are excited to talk to her specifically about her experience dancing with the Washington Wizards, the NBA basketball team located in Washington DC!

We welcome Loretta Thomas, director of Moving Visions, a modern dance company in NYC. "The Widening Gyre" will be premiering at the Mark O'Donnell Theater on 3/6 and 3/7 at 7:30pm and 3/8 at 5:00pm - come see it if you're in the area and listen to this episode to learn more about Loretta's process in creating the upcoming show!

In this episode, Francesca Todesco discusses how she got her start in dance and the experiences that shaped her artistic path. In 2020, she founded her company, Dances We Dance, bringing her vision to life. Listen to this episode to learn more about her incredible journey and the passion behind her work.

To start off the new year we are excited to talk with a friend, Talia Fuchs. Talia and Hannah met at Alden Moves Dance Theater, and they feel very lucky their paths crossed. She is a truly creative and thoughtful individual. Talia is originally from Brooklyn, New York and has been surrounded by the arts her entire life. In this episode, we explore the overlap between dance and music and how these disciplines inform one another in her work.

Anabella Lenzu—award-winning choreographer, master teacher, and founder of DanceDrama—joined us to talk about her creative process, her bold artistic voice, and the stories behind her celebrated works. In this episode you can hear about her new book, Teaching and Learning Dance Through Meaningful Gestures. Whether you’re a dancer, educator, or lover of the arts, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. We are so grateful to welcome Anabella!

In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Anne Parichon-Buoncore, a freelance dancer based in New York City. Anne shares her insights, tips, and tricks for succeeding in the world of freelance dance.

This episode highlights the unique perspective of a 'ballet boyfriend' or fiancé (congrats Rebecca and Glenn). Join us for a fun and heartfelt episode where we hear from our two friends' significant others, Frankie and Glenn, and what they have learned about the dance world during their time in a relationship with a dancer.

In this episode, we're joined by the wonderful Janaea Rose Lyn and Marie Scioscia. They share their holistic approach and wisdom to life and one's career, offering insights from their books. Together, we explore the beautiful metaphor of "ingredients" for nourishing a fulfilling life in dance.

Katherine Jimenez is a shining star. Her journey with Mambo has been instrumental in shaping both her personal growth and professional development. She is undoubtedly a dynamic individual with so much to offer. Listen to this episode to learn more!

If you haven’t seen the girl famous for dancing at Trader Joe’s, this is your cue to check her out! Natalie Sterling shares the story behind her viral TikTok videos, explaining how and why she began dancing in the aisles of this beloved grocery store.

We’re excited to welcome the amazing Audrey Schultz! Audrey brings incredible talent to her role as the Production Manager for the American Ballet Theatre’s Studio Company. Today, she’ll share her journey, how she got to where she is, and what she enjoys most about her work.

Happy 2025! Our first guest of the new year, is our friend Sarah Taylor. In 2023, she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes which changed her life. Learn about how she has managed to cope with her diagnosis in her dance career. Sarah is a true inspiration!

Happy Birthday to Abun(dance)! Our first episode aired in December, 2020 and we are happy to be celebrating 4 amazing years. In this episode, Kristen and Hannah recap their time working on the pod and give you their own personal 'wrapped' of their dance lives.

In this episode Audra Queen discusses her personal experience being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. She discusses her superpowers that come with it along with it's challenges and how they may present as a dancer. Knowledge is power, and this diagnosis has allowed her to feel more empowered and in charge of her life. Check Audra out @danceceocoach on Instagram and give her podcast 'The Dance CEO' a listen!

On this episode, we have guest Tamaira Sandifer also commonly referred to as 'Miss Tee.' Miss Tee founded Studio T Arts & Entertainment where she uses dance as her primary engagement tool to connect with diverse youth. In this episode we discuss how she instills her entrepreneurial spirit, hope, and healing into trauma-impacted youth - creating the next generation of entrepreneurs.

We welcome the lovely Michela Poynter! She is an established dancer and photographer. In today's episode, Michela shares her passion for photography and how it plays a role in her professional life. Contact Michela if you are not only in need of dance photos, but have interest in a graduation, engagement or family shoot!

Today Veda Manly offers insight on how black representation can be better applied in dance. Her passion for dance, anthology, witchcraft and more is discussed in great depth -- learn more about how her background has shaped her into the artist she is today! We are so proud of her achievements and we can't we to see where her path takes her!

Have you ever heard of Labanotation? Well, if you haven't or want to know more about it, check out this episode! Noelle Partusch talks about her passion for this system of notating movement.

This episode highlights the other half of the management team at Ballet Embody, Emily Runkle. Emily is co-founder and Artistic Director of Ballet Embody located in Westminster, Maryland. The conversation centers around one of her areas of expertise, creating original narrative ballets, some of which include Weekend at Marley Manor: A Murder Mystery Ballet, An Evening of Edgar Allen Poe, and The Maryland Nutcracker!

Liz McKendry is the star of this one! Liz discusses her many experiences as a performer. As a woman of many talents, she has been in shows both on and off Broadway. She has even been featured in a recent movie, Cabrini! Join us as we celebrate the journey of performing. As Liz says, "don't forget where you're from, don't forget your roots."

This episode features Melissa Lineburg! Fun fact, Kristen and Melissa dance together with Ballet Embody, a professional contemporary ballet company based in Maryland. In addition to being a freelance dancer, Melissa has her own nutrition and wellness company, 'eMpower performance.' Check out her resources and services on Instagram @eMpower_performance and on TikTok @empowerdancenutrition!

We welcome the exquisite Frances Samson! As a current dancer with the José Limón Dance Company, she has a lot of self-awareness which has shaped her as an artist. Frances exudes beauty in all that she does both on and off the stage. If you want to learn more about her we invite you take a listen -- she has so much to offer!

Intuitive energy healer, Gina Giro, joined us to discuss important topics such as stage fright and imposter syndrome. This episode dives into what might be causing these as well as what one can do to combat them. Thank you Gina for so graciously offering 15% off of her sessions to our listeners using the code DANCE15. Code Expires 12/31/24.

Our first guest in 2024 is the astounding Melissa West! Listen to how each opportunity has led her to create a fulfilling career as a dance curator, choreographer, and arts advocate in Staten Island.

This episode highlights the incredible, Catherine Gallant! As a teacher, dancer, and choreographer she has accomplished quite a lot in her career. In this conversation, we look at her time as a Dance Teacher in the NYC Department of Education as she approaches retirement.

We welcome the lovely Kathryn Galimi! Today’s focus is on her business, “The Dance Call,” where performers get online coaching to perfect their dance skills. Give it a listen!

We are proud to welcome Allana Tyson! Have you ever wondered about Flamenco Dance? Well, this is the episode to learn more about it! Allana shares her vast knowledge on the topic. This conversation is engaging and filled with passion just like Flamenco!

We're pleased to welcome Jane Weedon, a licensed physical therapist in Brooklyn, NY. Jane offers insight on how dance can be impactful for child development. Dance can leave a positive long lasting impact that transfers to your adult life. You will get to hear her experiences as a lifelong dancer and how her love of dance has influenced her job as a physical therapist.

Our episode highlights Disney performer Jenny Dzuranin! She opens the conversation about the differences between being a theme park performer versus a concert dancer as well as gives insight and tips on the Disney audition process. Give this episode a listen for a little Disney magic!

This episode illuminates the amazing Javier Rochel! We couldn’t be happier to talk about Javier’s experience dancing in Mexico and the United States. He speaks in great depth about how his dance background has been the catalyst for where he is today. Javier also brings to light some interesting differences between dance across borders.

We couldn't be happier to have Co-directors, Lynn Petersen and Kate Sutter of SYREN Modern Dance in NYC join us! In this conversation we dive into their path to reach the company's 20th year anniversary. Listen to hear about what owning and directing your own dance company entails. We love their emphasis on support! Give it a listen to learn more.

This episode features Gia Salerno! As a physical therapist that specializes in dance at NYU Langone’s Harkness Center for Dance Injuries, she has a lot of expertise. Our point of discussion centers around common dance injuries Gia sees. She talks about how dancers can take preventative measures to avoid injury. If you’re curious about the benefits of Physical Therapy, this is definitely an episode that you’ll want to check out!

This episode features Kristen and Hannah's former professor and mentor from Mercyhurst University, Tauna Hunter. Find out more about her career as she elaborates on her experiences learning, teaching, and dancing the Bournonville technique. You will get to hear firsthand stories that reflect upon her time at Ballet West and the University of Utah. Tauna Hunter is someone that leaves a lasting impression on those who get the privilege to learn from her. She is quite an inspiration!

This episode features Kristen's former ballet teacher, Linda Giancaspro! Linda has been a huge supporter of the podcast and we are thrilled to have her on. From Ballet Mistress to competition judge, studio owner, and Master Class teacher, she has done it all and continues to leave her mark on the dance world. Linda is truly electric, a natural born performer with a heart of gold. Everyone deserves a Miss Linda in their life! Tune in to hear her story.

Betsy Moran, director of DanceWorks NYC and Boston, is here with us today to shine light on her career and company. DanceWorks gives a unique space for dancers to continue dancing at a high level even if they are not dancing full time and have other work. Learn more about the ins and outs of DanceWorks and Betsy's positive outlook on life. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Jalyn Gill is our star of the show today! Kristen and Hannah get to learn about how Jalyn's past, present, and goals for the future have shaped her as an artist. As a dancer, choreographer, and teacher Jalyn excels in more ways than one. Give this one a listen to learn more about her -- you won't regret it!

We are happy to illuminate the talented Lydia Soueidan and Anthony Zucchero! Tune in to hear how their individual journeys with dance and music made them into the artists they are today. Not only have they each created their own paths separately, but together they have collaborated and influenced each other in many ways too. We couldn't be more excited for them and we look forward to seeing the amazing work they create in the future. Don't forget to check out Anthony's band MorphLand!

we are excited to share our special guest Carole Amend! Thank you to our former guest, Solveig Santillano for introducing us! Carole is a somatic movement educator and Pilates specialist based in California who has her own studio, Bodies Mind. Be sure to check out her studio including her online offerings!

What a pleasure it was to speak with Lauren Stenroos, and our dear friend Stacie Preuhs, both Mercyhurst alums and professional dancers with Cleveland Ballet. We appreciate their nuanced perspectives on topics like physical and mental self-care, finding motivation to keep up with the demands of the field, and pre-show routines. 'Treat your body as a temple,' as Lauren would say. Tune in to hear how their different paths led them to Mercyhurst and now dancing together at Cleveland Ballet!

We bring to you, Dominic Fortunato, fellow Mercyhurst Alum! Dom has been touring with the production 'CATS!' for the last two years. He shares with us the ins and outs of what it's like to tour with a major production. We are thrilled to have stolen some of his precious time pre-show to make this happen. Dom is truly electric on and offstage. Be sure to give this episode a listen and see him perform 'CATS!' in a city near you!

We are thrilled to welcome Phil Chan, co-founder and author of 'Final Bow for Yellowface.' With the help of Chan and Georgina Pazcoguin, positive change is happening to eliminate Asian stereotypes and fight for other under-represented people in ballet. This is a critical conversation to be had as we continue to work on diversifying and correctly representing all people with integrity. We highly encourage you to listen to this episode to better educate yourself on all of the important matters Chan discusses. Check out his book as well!

It is an honor to have spoken with Anisa Tejpar! She is a co-director of 'Hit and Run Dance Productions' based in Toronto, Canada. And Tejpar does very important work as an intimacy coach for dance and film. She helps to break down points of consideration for rehearsals and performances as well as necessary disclaimers for audience members that should be considered to keep all individuals feeling safe and comfortable. We appreciate the work she is doing!

Kathleen Bostleman shares with us her breadth of experience ranging from dance, arts administration, yoga, massage therapy, and owning her own business. She speaks on pivotal moments such as her time abroad in China where language was a true barrier, and how an injury temporarily lent her towards gaining new skills. Kathleen has accomplished so much already in her twenties! This is an episode worth listening to — check it out!

Sally Tierney, studio owner and director of 'Just Dance,' in Virginia shares her early dance beginnings which led her to become the successful studio owner she is today. She is just about ready to pass on the torch and continue exploring other avenues and sharing her wealth of knowledge through other means such as her very own podcast. Check out 'The Dance Studio Podcast' to learn more! Her passion, love for her students, and effort to continue educating and bettering herself for her students is truly honorable. 

This episode illuminates Vincent Paterson, director and choreographer in film, concert tours, opera, commercials and more, creating behind the scenes for some of the largest names! From lead dancer in Michael Jackson's 'Beat It,' to helping Madonna look her best, Paterson has done it all. Kristen and Hannah are very grateful to have connected with him. Not only does he have such an impressive career, but he remains humble and kind in nature! Tune in to learn more; and don't miss checking out his memoir, 'Icons and Instincts."

We welcome the free spirited Marisa f. Ballaro! Whether it is teaching, dancing, or choreographing, she exudes light and positivity in all that she does. Marisa's two favorite quotes will give you a sneak peak on what she is all about: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson and "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."-Oscar Wilde If you want to learn and/or get involved with Marisa's company, Ballaro dance, please visit her website, https://www.ballarodance.com/

Kristen and Hannah feel so lucky to have had a conversation with the astounding Michelle Cave! She is an established teacher in New York City and has even developed her own organization called Ballet and Beyond NYC which offers free ballet classes to children in the area. If you want to learn more about Michelle and her many accomplishments, give this one a listen!

We welcome the multi-faceted Mark Santillano! Kristen and Hannah had the opportunity to learn more about their former professor's career. If you are curious about how to incorporate many artistic pursuits into a career, then this is a story worth listening to! He is one-of-a-kind and moves to the beat of his own drum. There is never a dull moment when speaking with this re(mark)able man!

This episode features the extraordinary Kitty Lunn--dancer, teacher, disability activist, and founder of the Infinity Dance Theatre, a company which features dancers with disabilities. Her story is truly inspirational; where there's a will, there's always a way! Thank you, Kitty, for your vulnerability sharing your triumphs and tribulations, and paving the way for more inclusivity in dance.

This week's special guest is Godfrey Muwulya! Through a wonderful partnership and study abroad program, Kristen was able to connect with Godfrey via the NYU community. Tune in to learn some about the spirit of West African dance and the beautiful music that helps to enliven the dance.  Unfortunately, we are missing Hannah from this episode due to her coming down with Covid-19. But, she's doing much better now :)