Blog
Are You Ready for a Career? Great Advice from Grover Dale
For most of us, ‘getting ready’ is built into our daily dancing lives. Whether it’s getting ready for class, a rehearsal, a competition, an audition, or making a career leap.
We know that getting ready requires preparation. Of course, luck can enter the picture and sometimes does. There’s nothing wrong with wishing for it to happen. It just might. And then again, it might not.
The truth is ... focusing on luck tends to keep us in the wishing-and-hoping-mode far too long. If taking action is what counts, preparation is a lot more reliable.
Kate Harpootlian: Dancer, Choreographer, Writer
As a dancer, Kate Harpootlian went the distance in expressing herself during the 2015 season of SYTYCD. Joy, sizzle, sass, or burn.
Just name it. Kate took us there. We were mesmerized by her performances. As a blogger, she was equally at home with expressing herself. Her words, like her moves, compelled us to stick around for more. What else is she capable of expressing? She posted this essay on Facebook about ‘pursuing dreams.’ After reading it twice, I came to a decision: Kate’s writing is just as effective as her performing is. Have a read. You’ll probably agree with me. – GROVER DALE
Highlight on A4D Content: Momentum 101
A4Ders are developing and securing new roles as writers, producers, filmmakers, career coaches, and lead performers.
Our gut tells us they’re on a roll with little or no intention of slowing down. Progress like this is worth sharing. Who knows… the momentum they’re making could be more contagious than we think it is. – GROVER DALE
Juneteenth 2023 Around the USA
Explore the many Juneteenth celebrations across the USA to commemmorate this important federal holiday.
On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday. For 2023, it will be celebrated on Monday, June 19.
Garrett's Perfect Worst Audition
Long-time A4D member and close friend, Garrett ‘Spaghetti’ Minniti, recently posted an intriguing motivational video on TikTok.
His advice and encouragement is priceless for everyone… from students dreaming of a dance career to seasoned professionals..
Everybody Dance Wins 2023 Chita Rivera Award
Answers4Dancers is celebrating Dan Watt's Chita Rivera Award for his touching documentary film.
We promised to share the inside story of Dan Watt’s Chita Rivera Award win for 'Everybody Dance' which won for Outstanding Direction of a Documentary Release. .
NaTonia's Journal Soars on Amazon
We recently learned that long-time A4D member, NaTonia Monét has added another hyphenate to her long list of talents.
Published author! Turns out her Audition Journal reached #1 on Amazon’s New Releases (acting and auditioning)! We contacted NaTonia and here’s what she shared about her journal:
Are You Submit Ready?
During the industry shutdown in 2020, we spoke to Brandon Sierra, Director of LA Talent / Agent, McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA).
He urged his clients to use the downtime to focus on important materials every dancer needs. And now that dance is open again, auditions and submissions look very different. Are you ready to book in 2023?
Looking 4 Answers to Career Questions?
Our name says it all ... we really do have Answers for Dancers. We reach out to new members to let them know we’ll answer any questions ... big or small.
We’ve recently been ‘chatting via email’ with a mom of a new member who’s finishing up her senior year of college.
What's The Right Age To Go Pro?
Delaney performed in Mariah Carey’s Christmas show and is currently signed by MSA. She was clearly ready, but what about your dancer?
We’ve seen young kids on popular shows like Dance Moms and So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation.
Here's Career Advice From A4D's Dancers 2 Watch
Dancer To Watch Rachel Perlman posted this breathtaking image after an incredible year. We love her optimism and the quote she included with her photo.
Everybody Dance IG Live
Answers4Dancers has posted the video from our Instagram Live event with director Dan Watt, a former dancer and filmmaker who directed the amazing and touching documentary: Everybody Dance.
Watch Dan as he shares his vision for this award-winning and amazing documentary film.
Oren Korenblum Has More News!
A4D’s Oren Korenblum is back in New York City for a few weeks to teach at Steps On Broadway’s Adv/Beg Tap at 2:15pm on Thursdays for the next 3 weeks.
In fact, for his December 1 class, a portion of the fees were donated to Dancers Responding to AIDS; the dance community’s first ongoing effort to support those living with HIV/AIDS; the dance community’s first ongoing effort to support those living with HIV/AIDS.
Instagram Live with Vincent Paterson, Part 2
Our recent IG Live with celebrity choreographer, Vincent Paterson was so phenomenal that we’re bringing you three installments. Part 2’s video is focused on the work.
And we’ll learn about the importance of the Choreographers Guild and what it means to the future of the industry.
Instagram Live with Vincent Paterson, Part 1
Answers4dancers recently spoke with celebrity choreographer, Vincent Paterson, about his book 'Icons and Instincts: Choregraphing and Directing Entertainment's Biggest Stars.
Our highly anticipated IG Live session with celebrity choreographer, Vincent Paterson was a huge success!
Grover Dale: An Interview With the Dance Legend
Answers4dancers founder and award-winning choreographer, Grover Dale, was recently interviewed by Patrick McGilligan of Bright Lights Film. The conversation focused on one of Grover’s favorite projects, The Young Girls of Rochefort.
Update on Tonya Kay's Cancer Recovery
Here’s an update from A4D friend Tonya Kay. On April 1, 2020, Tonya was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma, an uncommon type of breast cancer that has the potential to spread to the lymph nodes and other areas of the body.
This update is from September 17, 2022:
Oren To Choreograph Wick Theatre Season
We recently featured A4D member Oren Korenblum for his booking as a dancer in ‘Broadway By The Year’. That was a dream come true and now he’s announced an incredible new choreography booking.
Here’s Oren’s announcement in his own words:
Taryn in Qatar for FIFA World Cup
We recently learned that long-time member, Taryn-Elle Faustman booked a gig in Qatar… We caught up with her to learn how she landed the job!
It all started in 2017 when I was a dancer in the inaugural cast at Mall Of Qatar in Doha, Qatar. The Mall of Qatar is an entertainment destination that premiered the world’s first resident troupe.
Audition Advice From Top Agents
A4D’s series on How To Audition in a Post COVID World has been filled with tips for virtual auditions in 2022..
We received great advice from Jim Keith, partner and president, The Movement Talent Agency (MTA) and Brandon Sierra, Director of LA Talent / Agent, McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA). They share even more audition tips to help guide you:
Self Tape Tips 4 Beginners
It’s no surprise that auditions have gone virtual. Crowded hallways and long lines wrapped around a building, last-minute hair and makeup adjustments, and checking your dance bag for that other shoe have been replaced with online submissions.Gurl
On the A4D Audition Calendar, you’ll discover nearly every audition begins with an online video submission. Each has a different set of rules; you have to learn the choreography that’s posted in a drop box or on YouTube, film yourself, and then submit your video before the stated deadline.
An Unbelievable Night on Broadway
Editor’s Note from Nancy Dann: After featuring NaTonia’s television interview last week, I was reminded ‘Tina: The Tina Turner Musical’ would close on Broadway in a matter of weeks. It was time for me to see two Answers4Dancers members on the Great White Way.
I decided there was no time like the present, so took a chance I could get tickets for the 8pm Saturday performance. For the first time since the industry shutdown, I boarded a bus and trekked into Times Square hoping to buy tickets to see Tina.
NaTonia Speaks Out on Broadway Mask Policy
As we enter another new phase for Broadway’s return, July brought a mask-optional policy for theatergoers. While the idea of easing up on COVID restrictions is appealing, it also poses a threat for the talent that brings Broadway shows to the stage.
When A4D’s NaTonia Monét heard about the new policy, she tweeted out a reminder that this could cause a danger to an already fragile industry, her message went viral and the story was picked up by Spectrum News NY1 TV.
Update on Tonya Kay's Cancer Fight
We recently received news about our friend, Tonya Kay. You may know her as the interviewer seen in A4D videos.
In the spring of 2020, Tonya was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma, an uncommon type of breast cancer. As the pandemic took hold around the world, she was told the words no one ever wants to hear, ‘You have cancer.’
Grover Dale's Interview on Gurl Talk
Recently, Grover Dale stopped by the Rumpus Room for an engaging interview on the Telly Award winning show, Doris Dear’s Gurl Talk.
Doris Dear conducted a fascinating interview with Grover and she talked about his career as a Broadway dancer, movie star, as well as a Tony winning Broadway director.
Exciting 'Amy's Victory Dance' Film News
A4D members Amy Jordan and Brian Thomas have unbelievable news! Their documentary film project that’s been in the works for years has a release date!(VIDEO BELOW)
The film follows Amy’s journey from being run over by a NYC transit bus to her victorious recovery and message of hope. Here’s the story in Amy’s own words:
Please Vote for Michelle West
Look what A4D’s Dancer To Watch, Michelle West posted on FaceBook. She’s in the running to be on the cover of ‘Muscle & Fitness HERS’ magazine!
NaTonia Monét on the Nick Cannon Show
As part of the cast of Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, NaTonia Monét had the opportunity to perform on the Nick Cannon Show for their Classic Jams Week. (VIDEO BELOW)
We love celebrating these amazing bookings with our members. Especially when it’s a long-time friend we’ve known from back-in-the-day as she was starting her dance career journey.
So You Think You Can Dance is Back!
It’s official! So You Think You Can Dance is returning to FOX this year! In 2020, the competition series was canceled due to Covid-19 concerns and some doubted it would ever return..
After a long delay, So You Think You Can Dance shared a casting call for interested dancers to complete an audition application. If you think you could be America’s Favorite Dancer, it’s time to submit your audition online for this month’s audition tour.
Oren Korenblum Creates Tap Magic on Stage
This week, we’d like to introduce you to an incredibly talented and creative tap dancer/choreographer/teacher and founder/director of the O.K. DANCE Company. He’s A4D member, Oren Korenblum.
Brandon Hudson Performs at Super Bowl
During Super Bowl LVI, four-time grammy nominee and country star Mickey Guyton, best known for her hit ‘Black Like Me,’ performed the national anthem with a choir of backup singers… And one of those singers was our own Brandon Hudson.
Krystina Burton Books Aladdin, At Last
It was quite the process, but we are pleased to announce that A4D’s Krystina Burton landed her dream job in ‘Aladdin’ in Germany! She opened this week and shares her story. This is one determined dancer! Read on…
‘To be honest, I’ve been chasing Aladdin since before it made its debut on Broadway in 2014. I was just finishing up my contract with The WOW Show in Israel when I saw the Aladdin casting notice pop up. I just knew it was going to be the show for me! That particular notice was for a call in Chicago, so before I even left Israel,
Jessa Doll's Visa Journey
If you’re not a U.S. citizen and want to work in the USA, you’ll need a work visa. It’s not easy to get one and only the most determined dancers can navigate the twists and turns.
“I knew in high school I wanted a dance career in Los Angeles, and that meant getting an O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field of work. It took me a few years to gather everything for my application. Since I was just starting out, I needed the experience that comes with time plus training, creating work relationships, working in the industry in Canada, and saving money.
How A4D's Michelle West & Brandon Hudson Got Their Start
Getting a dance career off the ground isn’t easy. Especially not in the middle of a global pandemic. A4D loves to feature stories about our members who have one common thread… Their determination to succeed knows no bounds.
Michelle West, currently in Broadway’s Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, is one of the most determined dancers we’ve ever met. Did you know at the start of her career she commuted from Delaware to NYC for auditions? She woke up at 3 a.m. to catch the 4 a.m. bus for the long trip to NYC. She’d arrive by 7:30 a.m., audition until 6 p.m., buy a bus ticket home, get back at 11 p.m., and go to bed at midnight. Then back up at 3 a.m. to start all over again …
NaTonia Monét’s Broadway Debut!
When A4D met NaTonia Monét over 10 years ago, we knew she was one determined dancer. She had her eye on her goals and never cut any corners to reach them. NaTonia’s trajectory and enviable determination knows no limit.
When we learned that NaTonia Monet was cast in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, we were ecstatic… Mostly because we’ve been there for so much of her journey. NaTonia picks up the story from here:
A4D’s Antonio Martinez Performs with Taylor Swift on Billboard Music Awards
A4D’s Antonio Martinez booked an exciting opportunity to perform with Taylor Swift and Brandon Urie on the Billboard Music Awards! Here’s the story as told by Antonio.
‘Thanks for allowing me to share my experience with other dancers. The Taylor Swift performance at the Billboard Awards was a direct booking!
Danielle Albertina's COVID Project, A Dance Tips Podcast
This is the story of A4D’s Dani Albertina and her gamble to relocate from NYC to LA ... Little did she know two months later she’d find herself in a new city under quarantine lockdown. Sounds pretty scary, right? What Danielle did next will inspire you.
Instead of retreating, she launched a podcast called Dance Tips Daily and already has over 7,000 streams/downloads. We asked Danielle Albertina how her podcast journey unfolded?
How did you navigate your big move?
The adjustment from east coast to west was a bit of a challenge. I approached the move the same way I’ve managed my career… From the start, I established daily routines
A Broadway Debut for Michelle West!
Answers4Dancers is proud to announce that Michelle West is making her Broadway debut this month!
We caught up with Michelle for some details on how she booked the role of Swing in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. Here’s what she shared with us!
You know when they say ‘the best things
West Side Story Film Celebrates Los Angeles Premiere
When A4D founder Grover Dale (original cast member of the 1957 Broadway production of West Side Story) received an invitation from Stephen Spielberg to attend the Los Angeles premiere of the new West Side Story film, he knew he’d go.
Grover and Carol Lawrence (Maria in 1957 Broadway production) attended the premiere together at the El Capitan Theater on December 7th.
Answers4dancers kept a close eye on Grover’s Facebook
A4D’s Kim Ross Books with Royal Caribbean
We’re excited to share the news that long-time A4D member, Kim Ross, booked with Royal Caribbean Cruises!
Yes indeed… there’s work out there for determined dancers. We contacted Kim to get all the details. It’s a great read!
How did you book the job?
Mary Roberts’ Journey Through the Industry Shutdown
Meet long-time A4D member Mary Roberts. Her story of how she got through the industry shutdown will inspire you. Her can-do attitude carried her every step of the way through the darkest days of 2020 to her triumphant return to the work she loves!
In early, February 2020, I was learning production shows and receiving contracts for teaching and installing cruise ship casts with Norwegian Creative Studios. In late February,
