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.