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

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
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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

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