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In this Mini Series episode, Eileen and Amy explore the nuanced differences between practice, rehearsal, and performance within the creative process, through the lens of dance and movement artistry. They emphasize the importance of personal investment in practice, the collaborative nature of rehearsal, and the execution of artistry in performance. The discussion highlights the need for intentionality in each phase to foster growth and connection with the audience. They go on to explore the often overlooked contributions of ensemble dancers, the evolving dynamics of dance training, and the impact of social media on dance careers; emphasizing the need for a clear distinction between practice, rehearsal, and performance, and advocating for valuing the artistic process and self-worth in the dance industry. This episode highlights the challenges dancers face in a rapidly changing environment and the importance of recognizing their artistry and contributions within and without it.

Resources / Mentions:

• Episode 20 Slideshow
• Instagram reel that inspired this episode.
  • @bunmisimple
• Cyd Charisse
• Charli D’Amelio
• S2E8 Professional Paths Mini Series: What part does value play in how dancers see themselves?

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.

Send us a text

Guest: Caileigh Scott
Performer / Storyteller / Movement Artist

In this week's interview episode, Eileen and Amy talk with Caileigh Scott and explore the journey of reconnecting with dance after illness, the multifaceted identity of movement artists, and the importance of sensitivity in performance. They discuss the integration of various artistic expressions, the role of vulnerability in creativity, and the significance of feedback in the arts. The conversation highlights the everyday inspirations that move artists and the need for understanding and empathy in the creative process. They also dive into their journeys as dancers, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of navigating their height, body image, and the impact of feedback in dance. Caileigh shares personal experiences related to her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment and how it has shaped her relationship with her body and movement. The dialogue explores themes of self-acceptance, the pressure of societal expectations, and the importance of taking up space in the dance world; emphasizing the need for validation and the empowerment that comes from embracing one's unique movement style. The mind-body connection in healing and the necessity of being an ally to one's body is discussed and what redefining success in the dance industry, advocating for inclusivity, and creating welcoming spaces for all body types in dance looks like.

Caileigh (she/her) is a storyteller and movement artist whose creative practices include acting, writing, comedy, and dance. She is also a social impact producer committed to elevating the voices of women and nonbinary folks.

Activation Warning: Sensitive topics discussed, please take care of your body.

Follow / Resources / Mentions:
IG: @caileighscott
Website: Project Self

• Kim Hale
• “Fancy” by Reba McEntire
• “Rising Strong” by Brené Brown
• Beth Nicely
• Sutton Foster
• Onco-Ballet Foundation - FREE classes for cancer survivors
• Breast Cancer Resources

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.

Send us a text

PART 2: In this conversation, Eileen and Amy explore the intricate relationship between fascia, emotions, and physical sensations. They discuss how fascia serves as a support system for the body, its role in chronic pain that often leads to acute injury, and how emotional trauma can manifest physically. The episode also emphasizes the importance of understanding the body's signals and the need for somatic practices to heal and re-pattern the mind-body connection.

This is a Two Part Episode.
Part 1: Episode 16 on 10.23.24
Part 2: Episode 18 on 11.6.24

Resources / Mentions:

• Episode 16 & 18 Slideshow

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.

Send us a text

Guest: Nora Schell
Actor / Singer / Songwriter

In this interview episode, we speak with Nora on navigating the complexities of the arts industry discussing their experiences with mental health, body positivity, and the importance of community support. The conversation delves into the challenges of being a performer, the role of advocacy in the arts, and the impact of negative feedback on self-esteem. Nora emphasizes the need for change within the industry and the importance of creating safe spaces for artists. They share the impact of their medical challenges on their career and the need for support and solidarity amongst their colleagues. Experiences with toxic education in the performing arts and the challenges of advocating for oneself in a high-pressure environment are touched on as well as the importance of kindness and growth in the industry, the privilege of being an educator and the responsibility that comes with it.

Nora (they/them) graduated from The University of Michigan with a BFA in Musical Theatre and a minor in Gender, Race and Nation. They received Drama Desk, Drama League and Clive Barnes Award nominations for their Off-Broadway debut in SPAMILTON. Nora made their Broadway debut in JAGGED LITTLE PILL. They were most recently seen Off-Broadway playing Bustopher Jones in CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL. Nora will be performing all original music at the Perelman Center's Lobby Stage on November 2nd. Nora continues to cultivate a career focused on the intersection of performing and social justice. Love to Gregg Baker Management and their family.

Follow / Resources / Mentions:
IG: @noraschellmusic
Nora’s Statement I PCOS I NAMI I Spamilton I Cats: “The Jellicle Ball” I Bipolar 2 Disorder I Borderline Personality Disorder I Drama Desk Awards I Drama League Awards I Clive Barnes Foundation I Bryan Perri

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.

Send us a text

PART 1: This conversation delves into the complexities of injury prevention within the dance industry. The hosts discuss the high prevalence of injuries, the impact of collective trauma, and the importance of understanding both physical and emotional aspects of injury. They emphasize the need for a holistic approach to injury prevention, including awareness of muscle engagement, the role of touch in learning, and the significance of mindfulness in movement practices. The discussion also highlights the differences between chronic and acute injuries and the necessity of adapting teaching methods to individual body patterns. In this conversation, Eileen and Amy touch on the intricate relationship between body mechanics, self-perception, and the importance of proper training in dance; emphasizing the need for dancers to understand their unique body patterns, the significance of warm-ups, hydration, and breath awareness, and the role of mobility and joint training in preventing injuries. This episode encourages curiosity and self-discovery, highlighting that the process of learning and understanding one's body is as crucial as the end product in dance training.

This is a Two Part Episode.
Part 1: Episode 16 on 10.23.24
Part 2: Episode 18 on 11.6.24

Resources / Mentions:

• Episode 16 & 18 Slideshow
• Jordan Eagle Episode
• Lisa Long Episode
• Laban / Bartenieff Movement System

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.

Send us a text

Guest: Jordan Eagle
Performer

In this interview episode, Eileen and Amy interview Jordan Eagle, a multifaceted performer and photographer. They discuss Jordan's journey in the arts, the pressures of identity within the performance industry, and the importance of community and storytelling. Jordan shares her journey with photography, her inspirations, and the nuances of supporting artists. The conversation also touches on the realities of being a performer, the challenges of navigating the industry, and the benefits of cross-training for physical well-being. In this conversation, there is an emphasis on the significance of rest and cross-training for dancers and the importance of both mobility and flexibility. Jordan shares her personal experiences with weightlifting, injury recovery, and the psychological impacts of being a dancer. The discussion also highlights the need for a supportive community and the normalization of comebacks in the dance industry, as well as the importance of understanding one's identity beyond physical capabilities.

Jordan (she/her) is a musical theatre performer based in NYC. She has a degree in dance performance and choreography as well as Creative Writing. Over the years Jordan has performed regionally and in NYC cabaret clubs, taught dance and voice, and run her own photography business. Jordan currently works as a copywriter for Dancers Who Lift, a company dedicated to educating and empowering dancers in their nutritional and cross-training journeys.

Follow / Learn More / Mentions:
IG: @jordan.anne.eagle / @j.eaglephotography
TikTok: @jordan_anne_eagle
Website: https://jeaglephotography.com/

• Avalon Artists Group
• Gavin Creel
• Enneagram Test
• Mims Method Physical Therapy
• HSS - Jordan’s Surgeons
• Mary Linda Graham

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.

Send us a text

In this conversation, Eileen and Amy delve into the intricacies of the creative process, particularly in choreography. They explore the nuances of how choreographers and dancers interact, the steps involved in creating a dance piece, and the emotional responses that drive artistic expression. The discussion highlights the challenges faced in collaboration, the importance of inspiration, and the ever-evolving nature of creativity in the dance industry. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding dancer needs, the role of breaks, and the collaborative nature of creating movement. They also examine various sources of inspiration, the significance of artistic intent, and the necessity of clear communication in rehearsals; delving into the importance of breath in movement and the overarching goal of restoring humanity within the dance process.

Resources / Mentions:

• Episode 14 Slideshow
• Crystal Pite
• Horton
• Graham

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.

Send us a text

Guest: Alice Robb
Writer

In this engaging conversation, Eileen and Amy interview Alice Robb, author of 'Don't Think, Dear: On Loving and Leaving Ballet', exploring her journey from the ballet world to becoming a writer. They discuss the emotional complexities of loving ballet, the impact of dreams (in regards to her first book), and the importance of curiosity, especially as we learn. Alice shares her insights on body image, the need for change in ballet training, and how writing this book has allowed her to illuminate problematic themes that have influenced how some readers approach teaching dance moving forward. The conversation highlights the significance of inclusivity, the need for disruption and the acknowledgement of diverse paths within the dance world.

Alice (she/her) is the author of two non-fiction books: Why We Dream (Picador 2019), which was translated into fifteen foreign languages, and Don't Think, Dear: On Loving and Leaving Ballet (HarperCollins 2023), which has been called “devastating” (New York Times); “beautiful, difficult, and compelling” (Vanity Fair); “nuanced, intimate” (Guardian); “enlightening, perceptive” (Wall Street Journal). Don't Think, Dear uses her childhood at the School of American Ballet as a jumping-off point for an exploration of femininity, beauty, pain, the body, and ballet’s place in the modern world.
Her journalism and essays have appeared in Vogue, Vanity Fair, the Washington Post, the Guardian, the New Statesman, the Financial Times, the Times Literary Supplement and elsewhere.

Follow / Learn More / Mentions:
IG: @alicelrobb
Website: https://alicerobb.com/

• Don’t Think Dear: On Loving and Leaving Ballet
• Why We Dream: The Transformative Power of Our Nightly Journey
• Sharon Eyal
• Batsheva Dance Company
• Gaga
• Horton
• ABT & SAB

Support the show

M.O.V.E. with Eileen + Amy is a Kaia Evolutions Podcast.
New episodes air on Wednesdays when in season.

To learn more about Eileen + Amy, be sure to follow them on IG at @ekielty + @amyreah and keep up to date on the podcast at @movewitheileenandamy. For more information about Kaia Evolutions, a culmination of Eileen's life's work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in 2019 - visit https://www.kaiaevolutions.com/ or follow on IG at @kaia.evolutions

If you want to share part of your dancer / movement artist journey with us, email us at movepod@kaiaevolutions.com

*If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255 OR text 988. You are not alone.