Five Ways to Build Community through Dance.
Host: Anna Harsh, M.A, B.A
I taught a recent workshop at a university and as we’re wrapping up, a student lingers behind and said something to me that gave me chills.
Listen in to this profound realization I had.
Listen in to hear 5 ways to build community through dance.
What if our gifts are not just talents, but assignments?
Learn more: www.AllegroDanceCompany.net
Follow Anna IG: @TambourineChronicles
Substack @TambourineChronicles
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#DoingGodsWork #DanceCommunity #FolkDance #WomenSpeakers #CircleDances #SacredMovement
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Tarantella Time
The Dance Floor Podcast with host Anna Harsh
Guest: Connor Marks
Connor Marks is a Chicago-born, Italian American, mandolinist and multi-instrumentalist who explores the folk and dance traditions of Southern Italy through his project, Tarantella Time.
Drawing on the distinctive sound and history of the Neapolitan mandolin, he performs a mix of fiery regional folk tunes and valzers, mazurkas, and polkas with a distinctly Italian flavor. Connor has appeared at Italian festivals in Texas, North Carolina, Washington, D.C., and Chicago,sharing music that bridges history, culture, and celebration.Connect with Connor : IG @ConnorMarksi
https://www.instagram.com/connormarksi/
Connect with Anna : IG @TambourineChronicles
Pouring from an Empty Cup:
The Silent Struggle of Dance Directors
The Dance Floor Podcast,I’m your host Anna Harsh—and today’s episode is a solo one.It’s just you and me. And we’re going to talk about something a lot of dance directors or studio owners feel… but rarely say out loud.
It’s that moment when you realize:
“I’m doing too much… and it’s costing me.”
Whether you lead a company, run a studio, or direct a touringensemble—there’s often an invisible load we carry. The planning, the logistics, the fundraising, the mentoring, the emotional support, the late-night emails, the "one more thing" after rehearsal...
And let’s be honest—sometimes we pour more into our dancers than wepour into ourselves.
Visit www.AnnaHarsh.com
www.AllegroDanceCompany.net #DanceStruggle #DanceDirectors #WomenLeaders #Ghosting #Dancers #EmptyCup #Mentors #Leaders #KindnessMatters #Gratitude #OffStage #Respect #Relationships
From Folk to Footwork : The Danceable Journey of a Mandolin
with guest Andrew Berger- Gross
Host: Anna Harsh
What makes a mandolin tune irresistible to dancers?
Andrew Berger-Gross joins Anna Harsh to share how his musical journey—from Appalachian string bands to the soulful sounds of Italian mandolin—has been shaped by rhythm, culture, and the energy of the dance floor.
Whether you're a musician or a mover, this episode is packed with rich stories, musical tips, and the deep connection between tradition and dance.
Don't miss the beat!
Andrew Berger-Grosshas been on a musical journey since the age of seven.
After attending LaGuardia High School of Music and Arts and Oberlin Conservatory,Andrew spent twenty years immersed in the traditional music of the southeastern United States. An extended love affair with the mandolin eventually led him into the world of Italian and Italian-American mandolin music. In addition to his career as an economist at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Andrew spends his time organizing and participating in local cultural events and playing mandolin and guitar with the Oak City Serenadersand other string bands in the Raleigh, NC area.Follow Andrew on IG @OakCitySerenaders
Follow Anna on IG @TambourineChronicles
#WomanSpeakers #Mandolinists #FolkDance #Music #ItalianDanceMusic
Stand out to get more gigs. Host: Anna Harsh
Hey dancers, dreamers, and doers — welcome back to
The Dance Floor Podcast!I’m your host, Anna Harsh, Artistic Director of Allegro DanceCompany.
I’ve got a very special announcement about one ofour upcoming performances that you won’t want to miss — plus, I’m sharing five powerful ways for dancers looking to book more gigs and build trust with their director.
So whether you’re tuning inbackstage, commuting, or stretching before rehearsal — this one’s for you.”
#DanceGigs #Dancers #WomenPodcasters #BeHelpful #BeKind #GetMoreGigs
When Talent Isn't Enough - top 10 dance tips and advice.
Host Anna Harsh, Dancer, Author, Podcaster, Director Whether you're performing on grand stages or rehearsing in churchbasements, one truth remains: being a great dancer takes more than just talent.
Technique will earn you applause, but character will earn you trust. And in a dance company, trust is everything.
Tune in to hear the top 10 tips that will keep you being hired over and over with success.
For more details:
Leave 5 stars, #LIKE #Share #SUBSCRIBE #WomenSpeakers #ItalianDance #DanceTIPS
The Dance Floor Podcast with Anna Harsh
The Art of the Passeggiata
Host: Anna Harsh
This episode unpacks the passaggiata—a slow evening walktaken with loved ones, often through a village square or along a quiet road. It’s not about fitness or steps, but presence,connection, and reflection.
In the U.S., many families scatter after dinner—this episode encourages reclaiming that time, even if it’sjust a 15-minute stroll around the block.
We reflect on how the walk helps you digest more than just food: it helps you process your day, your relationships, and your breath.
This walk is an unspoken dance with nature and the community.
www.AllegroDanceCompany.netwww.AnnaHarsh.com
#Walk #ItalianLiving #ItalianDance #Passeggiata #ItalianWalking
Northern Italy Dances
Host: Anna Harsh M.A, B.A degree in Dance. Over 32 years of teaching & performing dance while also researching in Italy.
"Southern Italy has Tarantellas, but what’s dancing like upnorth?"
EpisodeSummary:
This episode shifts focus to the northern regionsof Italy, where folk dances include waltzes, mazurkas, and elegant circle dances that reflect European influence. We highlight how northern dances use pedestrian, everyday movements—making them accessible and community-focused, often performed at village festivals.
This is only a short piece of information. Take a full workshop with Anna to get a deeper understanding.
Closingthought:
"Whether it's fiery spins in the south orgraceful steps in the north, Italian dance is as diverse as the land itself. Learn these dances and help preserve them for the next generation.
Want to join Allegro Dance Company?
Visit www.AllegroDanceCompany.net
Join us on tour.
Book your workshop with Anna www.AnnaHarsh.com
#podcasts #italiandance #womenSpeakers #festivals #NorthernItaly #ElegantDances #TheDanceFloorPodcast #AllegroDanceCompany
The Tarantella is over 2000 years old!
Host: Anna Harsh
Ciao Dancers… and welcome back to
Step into Italy: The Dance Diaries.
This episode is one of my favorites. Not because the dance is flashy. Not because it’s fast.
But because it’sancient and Sacred.
And when you hear what I’m about to share,I think you’ll understand why the Tarantella is so much more than a dance—it’s a time machine.
This is just a small bit of information.
Take a class or join the company for a deeper understanding.
#Tarantella #AncientRituals #SacredDances #italy #ItalianCulture #ItalianDance #THEDANCEFLOORPODCAST
Dancing on Tour
THE DANCE FLOOR PODCAST
Host: Anna Harsh
Allegro Dance Company is back on tour for 2025!
Listen to this episode for the full schedule and so much more!
Visit www.AllegroDanceCompany.net for details
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Leave 5 stars!
#THEDANCEFLOORPODCAST #ANNAHARSH #Tarantella #SummerFestivals #BookSignings #DanceWorkshops
#PittsburghEvents #2025Events #ItalianFestivals
Dance Beyond Borders
Host: Anna Harsh
Guest: Anabella Lenzu
Originally from Argentina, Anabella Lenzu is a dancer, choreographer, scholar & educator with 35 years of experience working in Argentina, Chile, Italy, and the USA.
Lenzu directs her own company, Anabella Lenzu/DanceDrama, which since 2006 has presented 400 performances, created 15 choreographic works and performed at 100 venues, presenting thought provoking and historically conscious dance-theater in NYC.
As a choreographer, she has been commissioned all over the world for opera, TV programs, theatre productions, and by many dance companies. She has produced and directed several award-winning short dance films and screened her work in over 200 festivals both nationally and internationally.
Lenzu founded her own dance school L’Atelier Centro Creativo de Danza in 1994 in Argentina, and as an educator for more 35 years, she has been teaching in more than 50 institutions, including universities, professional dance studios, companies, festivals, and symposiums in the USA, Canada, Ireland, Egypt, Australia, Panamá, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, London, and Italy.
In 2023, Anabella received the National Award for Outstanding Leadership in the Independent Sector by NDEO (National Dance Education Organization) and in 2022, the Innovative Dance Educator Award by NYSDEA (New York State Dance Education Association), acknowledging her work as a dance educator who develops innovative pedagogy in the dance field, groundbreaking teachings that have a significant impact on dance, as well as an established record of exemplary leadership on the state and national level in USA.
Lenzu has written for various dance and arts magazines and published her first book in 2013, entitled Unveiling Motion and Emotion. The book contains writings in Spanish and English on the importance of dance, community, choreography, and dance pedagogy. Her second book, Teaching Dance through Meaningful Gestures (2025), explores how technique is a philosophy and a theory, and how the body is an instrument for expression.
Currently, Lenzu conducts classes at NYU Gallatin, the School of Visual Arts, and Peridance Center. From 2020 to the present, she created and directed the Online Choreographic Mentorship Program.
Visit her website: www.AnabellaLenzu.com
Anna Harsh www.AllegroDanceCompany.net
The Tarantella can't be danced alone.
Host: Anna Harsh
This episode explores the social nature of the Tarantella.
The Tarantella, in many of its forms, requires a partner—not for choreography, but for connection, rhythm, and a conversation between dancers. It's about the community and healing the dancer in the center of the circle.
This is only a small piece of research that is being shared. Learn more by taking classes with Anna.
From Folk Dance to Film
Host: Anna Harsh
Guest: Beau Bowden
Beau is an actor, singer, dancer and Allegro Dance Company Alumni that was born and raised in Clarksburg, West Virginia.
Graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre (Acting) from West Virginia University.
Follow Beau:
https://www.instagram.com/beaugbowden/
Anna Harsh
Commercial Dance
Hosted by: Anna Harsh
Guest: Nicole Rae Jones
In this episode, we’re moving into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of commercial dance—where performance meets precision. Nicole is teaching this style so listen in for tips and advice.
Nicole Bio:
A graduate of Point Park University, she has performed in several national tours, including “An American in Paris”, “Legally Blonde”, “South Pacific”, and with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings on “Swing!”. Since returning to Pittsburgh from New York City, she performs and choreographs in the local theater scene for theaters and dance schools. Nicole has choreographed in Pittsburgh, New York City, and London’s West End. Most notably, she associate choreographed the 2022-2023 national tour of “Legally Blonde” andthe 2024 Western PA premier of “Alice By Heart.”
Nicole is resident dance faculty at Seton Hill University and teaches locally in the Pittsburgh area.
Follow Nicole on IG.
https://www.instagram.com/ni_cole_rae_choreography
For more on Anna Harsh
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What if I told you the Tarantella isn’t just onedance—but an entire genre?
Hosted by Anna Harsh
Benvenuti a tutti! Welcome back to
Step into Italy: The Dance Diaries.
I’m so glad you’re here.
Today, I want to share a little history about the Tarantella…
It’s not just one dance.
It’s a whole genre of them with differentsongs, steps and stories.
I know. You probably grew up thinking of the Tarantella as that one iconic Italian dance—fast, upbeat, with twirling skirts and clapping hands. And yes, that version exists.
But here's the truth?
The Tarantella is actually a genre—a whole family of folk dances that stretch across southern Italy, each with its own heartbeat, its own story, its own soul.
Listen to this episode for more details.
REGISTER NOW
THE ITALIAN DANCE CHALLENGE 2025
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/GdOy9l8hSf21FFvt3--W3A#/registration For more details> www.AllegroDanceCompany.net
The Tarantella is NOT a wedding dance.
Hosted by: Anna Harsh
Ciao, dancers, Welcome to Step into Italy: The Dance Diaries,where every step tells a story, and every rhythm carries theheartbeat of a culture.
Today, I want to unravel a dance you think you know—theTarantella. Learn the origin story.
THE ITALIAN DANCE CHALLENGE - FREE EVENT ONLINE
JOIN US NOW
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/GdOy9l8hSf21FFvt3--W3A#/registration
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Anna's Website www.AnnaHarsh.com
Allegro Dance Company www.AllegroDanceCompany.net
#TARANTELLA #AncientDance #ItalianCulture #ItalianDance #FolkDance #SacredDance #HealingDance #MovementIsMedicine #PodcastForWomen
Finding a Talent Agent
Guest: Albert Bramante Host: Anna Harsh
From the film festival circuit to founding one of the industry'sfreshest agencies—My next guest Albert Bramanteshares his journey from casting to launching his ownagency.
Discover what it really takes to find(and keep) the right talent agent in today’s ever-changingentertainment landscape.
Here are three reputable websites where actors can find auditions and casting opportunities:
Backstage – backstage.com
Casting Networks – castingnetworks.com
Actors Access – actorsaccess.com
MENTION THE DANCE FLOOR PODCAST
This is going to be fun for the whole family. Have your camera on since this is a dance challenge. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/GdOy9l8hSf21FFvt3--W3A
CHOOSE ONE:
See more details.www.AllegroDanceCompany.net Follow us on IG @TambourineChronicles
Don't forget to Like, Share and Subscribe
Company Life
Host: Anna Harsh
Guest: Alex HlavatyThis episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at company life after nearly a decade with Eisenhower Dance Detroit. Tune in as he shares real-world insights, choreography tips, and advice for the next generation of dancers ready to take center stage.Alex Hlavaty graduated with a BFA in Dance and a minor in Creative Writing from Western Michigan University in May, 2015. He studied in New York City with Gibney Dance and in Montréal with O Vertigo and Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal before joining Eisenhower Dance Detroit. He is currently in his tenth season dancing with EDD, where he has performed and taught master classes nationally and internationally. He has set excerpts of EDD repertory on high school and university students at summer intensives, workshops, and master classes. Mr. Hlavaty is also an avid choreographer and writer. His choreography has been performed in festivals, intensives, and competitions. He has also created two works on EDD’s professional company. His poetry has been published in the literary journal The Laureate, 14th Edition, and he has written for DancePlug online as a resource for dance students, professionals, and educators. He is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) Junior, Senior, and Advanced program, and strives to bring elements of various cross-training techniques to his performing and teaching philosophy.
Eisenhower Dance Detroit https://eisenhowerdance.org/https://eisenhowerdance.org/Anna Harsh www.AnnaHarsh.comAllegro Dance Company www.AllegroDanceCompany.net
Mind over Movement - Mental wellness for dancers before a performance.
Guests: Kristin Deiss & Michelle LoucadouxHost: Anna Harsh
The lights are dimmed.
The music’s about to start.
Your heart races.
Are you ready?
In this episode, we dive into themental side of dance—how to calm the nerves, sharpen your focus, and step onto that stage with confidence. Whether you're prepping for your first recital or a big showcase, we’ve got tools, stories, and mindset tips to help you dance from a grounded, empowered place.
Hit play and get your mind in motion—because performance starts within.
Michelle Loucadoux has danced in 5 Broadway shows, in 4 ballet companies, and on film and television and has traveled the world empowering young dancers. Michelle is a published author (Rowman & LIttlefield), has an MBA, and is currently the Co-Chair of the Dance Division at AMDA Los Angeles. In the past four years, she has worked full-time with Danscend to support the mental wellness of the dance community and its educators.
Kristin Deiss is a dancer, educator, yogi, and mom living her best life through helping others improve theirs. She holds an MA in History, an MFA in Dance, and is currently the Co-Chair of the Dance Division at AMDA Los Angeles. Having battled a JIA diagnosis that changed the trajectory of her dance career, Kristin is dedicated to helping dancers better cope with the challenges of their art form.
Danscend on IG: @DanscendOfficial Danscend’s mission is to bring mental wellness to the forefront of dance training by providing a space for education, application, and community to dancers, educators, and professionals. https://www.danscend.com/
From Spotlights to Stumbles: Tales of Dance & Theater
Guest: Bob Spiotto
Host: Anna Harsh, M.A (Communication) B.A (Dance), E-RYT200 Yoga, Pilates certified. Over 32 years of teaching experience with performances around the world.
Have you had performances that were nothing but stumbles on stages?
My next guest has worked in the entertainment industry for over 40 years with acting, directing and producing is going to offer advice.
Bob Spiotto holds a B.F.A. in Theater Performance - Hofstra University, and a M.F.A. in Directing - The Catholic University of America (Washington,D.C.) Bob has directed hundreds of theater productions at various regional and professional theaters, schools and universities, as well as for various organizations and companies, and while at Hofstra, he also co–founded the LittleTop Theater Company, and was an advisor to several on campus student theatrical organizations.
He has also served as a host, master of ceremonies, writer andauctioneer for many high profile private and public events, as well as benefits.Follow Bob on Facebook: @BobSpiotto https://www.facebook.com/bob.spiotto/
Anna's Websites: www.AnnaHarsh.com
Tarantella Workshop in NY
May 4, 2pm- 4pm
Long Island City School of Ballet, Long Island City NY
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