Mariah Reives is a dancer, choreographer, and entrepreneur who is currently performing in The Great Gatsby on Broadway. Her previous credits include Funny Girl on Broadway, Cassandra on the 1st National Tour of ‘Cats’ The Musical, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon.
In today's episode, Mariah discusses her time performing on Broadway, why she stepped down as Dance Captain, and how she prioritizes her mental health. She gives advice including when NOT to get an agent, why we should focus on our weaknesses, and why she wishes she did more regional productions before Broadway.
She also shares the story of her Broadway Debut, what it was like bringing her dog along on a National Tour, and why she created The Performer's Circle to give accessible information to performers.
Enjoy our episode with Mariah Reives!
Chapters:
(01:13) Broadway’s The Great Gatsby
(01:46) Stepping Down As Dance Captain
(05:23) What is An Onstage Dance Captain?
(08:24) To Dance Captain or Not To Dance Captain
(13:51) Advocating for Your Needs in a Professional Setting
(19:29) Enjoying the Ensemble Track
(21:45) Giving Dancers Accessible Information
(28:20) When NOT To Get An Agent
(31:42) Don’t Rush to Broadway
(33:55) Broadway Debut in Funny Girl
(40:52) Mariah’s Human Bio (feat. Leo the Pup)
(43:14) Dog Momming on a National Tour
(46:08) Loving Words and Goodbyes
About Mariah:
Mariah Reives is a dancer, choreographer, and entrepreneur who began dancing in Sanford, North Carolina at the age of three. She then went on to train at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts for high school and then graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with a B.A. in Teaching Dance.
She is currently the dance captain and in the ensemble of The Great Gatsby on Broadway. Her credits include Funny Girl Broadway, Cassandra in the First National Tour of ‘Cats’ The Musical, Carmen, Me and My Girl , The New Yorkers, Jerome Robbins Broadway, and The Wiz. She has been seen on television for The Tony Awards, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon.
Reives created a professional workshop for aspiring artists called ‘The Performers Circle’ and is excited to guide the next generation of Broadway stars!
Brooklyn based Clinton Edward (he/they) is a choreographer, writer, actor, educator, and creator who has been the associate choreographer on productions including the Met Gala (with headliner, Ariana Grande), and Urinetown at City Center Encores (starring Jordan Fisher and Rainn Wilson), the assistant dance captain in the original cast of Queen of the Night (off Broadway), and founder of an immersive events company.
In today's episode, Clinton shares how they've crafted their career in a way that's aligned with their desires, needs, and curiosities. He discusses the responsibilities of leadership in theater productions, what was harmful and helpful about his college experience, and what is his biggest dream of choreographing on the biggest stage in the world.
Deepti Menon is an actress, animator, and filmmaker whose work spans music videos, commercials with companies including Nike, Facebook and Converse, and TV roles on Law & Order (NBC), The Equalizer (CBS), and I Think You Should Leave (Netflix). In today’s episode, Deepti shares her honest insight into the entertainment industry as a performer and creator and discusses:
How she booked her television roles (and her thoughts on having an agent)
Realizing her career in animation satisfied her pull towards acting and directing
The pros and cons of self-taping, and what shifted when she went to in person auditions
Being treated extremely differently on set when she was a PA versus when she was talent
Creating a web series with almost no budget, and hoping that project shows others what she’d be capable of with more money, support and resources
Her dreams of being a showrunner (which is absolutely inevitable for this wonderful artist)
Finding, and using, her voice on set and behind the scenes
Writer-performer Isabelle Barbier shares all of the details of her creative process including her journey from improv to scripted projects, where all of her plentiful ideas live, how she turns an idea into a full fledged film, and the impact of professional training (acting school!) on creativity.
Isabelle and Jess discuss the importance of community and collaboration, the ins and outs of indie filmmaking, and the role of humor in addressing sensitive topics such as sexual trauma.
This episode is for you if you’ve ever been curious about making your own work, have a story you’ve been wanting to tell, and are curious to engage in everyday feminine rebellion.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Isabelle Barbier
01:30 Journey of an Artist
03:37 Improv to Scripted Work
05:09 Acting School
09:52 Confidence and Community
14:49 The Challenges of Acting School
18:55 Rediscovering Uniqueness
20:06 The Birth of 'Grrrl Guts'
28:11 The Impact of #metoo
35:01 Understanding Trauma Responses
38:50 The Healing Power of Writing
41:03 Navigating Auditions and Creative Control
47:09 Idea to Final Product
50:07 Creating Indie Short Films
54:28 Wildest Dreams
About Isabelle
Isabelle Barbier is an NYC-based writer-performer who’s obsessed with women talking. Her work tells very silly and very serious stories of everyday feminine rebellion. Her recent screenplays have been finalists for the Academy Nicholls Fellowship, Blacklist X WIF fellowship, and winner at SF Indie Fest.
She’s recently appeared as an actor in The Other Two (HBO Max) Actual People (Mubi) and CRSHD (Tribeca Film Festival). For playwriting, she received The Judith Campion Launch commission from Atlantic Theater company, and after a sold-out workshop at Ars Nova ANT Fest, she’s developing her new show Rip Her To Shreds for an off-broadway run.
In this episode, Broadway performer Chantelle Good discusses the pressing issues within the performing arts industry, emphasizing that representation alone is insufficient and highlights the importance of valuing the hard work of performers.
She shares insights into the daily life of a Broadway performer, the challenges of being a swing, and the necessity of fostering empathy and compassion.
Chantelle also shares a funny “swing” story and shares one of her wildest dreams.
This episode is for you if you're ready to question the status quo, embrace the messiness of growth, and reimagine what leadership and success can look like in the performing arts.
Timestamps & Topics
00:00 Representation in the Arts
03:03 Valuing the Work of Performers
06:14 The Life of a Broadway Performer
08:56 Challenging Toxic Norms
11:48 Embracing Mistakes
17:13 The Journey of a Swing
20:07 Dreams Beyond Broadway
24:05 Empathy and Compassion
About Chantelle
Chantelle Good is a performer, choreographer, and teaching artist who is currently performing in MJ The Musical on Broadway.
Based in Brooklyn, New York, her performance credits include Punchdrunk's Sleep No More and Freddie Falls in Love at the Joyce Theater. She has also danced for artists including JLo, Snoop Dogg, and H.E.R., as well as companies including Still Motion, Loni Landon Dance Project, and The Forest of Arden.
Chantelle also works in the non-profit sector as the Co-Artistic Director of TOES FOR DANCE and the Programs Director of Share The Movement.
She also enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion for dance as a teaching artist and guest choreographer for institutions and programs across North America. She continues to deepen her learning around decolonizing teaching practices, in order to foster inclusive environments for her students and cultivate community whenever possible.
In today’s episode, Chantelle shares about her journey to becoming a swing on Broadway, the importance of setting boundaries in performance spaces, and learning to use your voice.
Chantelle and Jess discuss the unfortunate prevalence of body image issues in the performing arts community and practice navigating conversations about the topic.
This episode is for you if you're questioning how to advocate for yourself in professional settings or looking to reclaim your individuality in an industry that hasn't always felt like it was for you.
*This episode includes a conversation about body image that may be triggering for some. If this is a sensitive topic for you, feel free to pause around 26 minutes in and come back for part two.*
Timestamps & Topics
00:00 Chantelle's Human Bio
02:00 Chantelle's Journey to Broadway
04:10 Life as a Swing on Broadway
05:58 Unexpected Career Paths
09:24 Audition Experiences and Sleep No More
11:23 Setting Boundaries in Performance
12:35 Evolving as an Artist
14:53 Navigating Body Image and Self-Expression
18:23 Mission Statement as an Artist
19:47 Balancing Commercial Work and Artistic Integrity
22:28 Unlearning and Embracing Individuality
26:11 Experiences with Nudity in Performance
32:12 The Importance of Community
34:46 Challenging Body Talk in the Arts
Come back from Part 2!
About Chantelle:
Chantelle Good is a performer, choreographer, and teaching artist who is currently performing in MJ The Musical on Broadway.
Based in Brooklyn, New York, her performance credits include Punchdrunk's Sleep No More and Freddie Falls in Love at the Joyce Theater. She has also danced for artists including JLo, Snoop Dogg, and H.E.R., as well as companies including Still Motion, Loni Landon Dance Project, and The Forest of Arden.
Chantelle also works in the non-profit sector as the Co-Artistic Director of TOES FOR DANCE and the Programs Director of Share The Movement.
She also enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion for dance as a teaching artist and guest choreographer for institutions and programs across North America. She continues to deepen her learning around decolonizing teaching practices, in order to foster inclusive environments for her students and cultivate community whenever possible.
Multidisciplinary artist Spinks shares her journey through dance, acting, writing and ceramics as a queer, biracial woman. She shares why she walked away from musical theater, how she found freedom in commercial work, and the profound reason she hasn’t returned to a dance class…yet. Spinks and Jess also discuss the impact of capitalism on joy, creativity, and a building a career in the arts. This episode is for you if you’re looking to define success on your own terms, find fulfillment in your chosen craft, and carve your own unique path.
Time Stamps & Topics
00:00 Introduction to Spinks: A Multidisciplinary Artist
01:38 Spinks' Human Bio
02:53 The Journey of a Multifaceted Artist
11:04 Navigating Musical Theater
18:34 The Intersection of Various Disciplines
24:22 Commercial Work vs. Artistic Expression
30:57 Vulnerability in Performance
34:54 The Joy of Art & Creating Without Capitalism
35:22 Rediscovering Joy in Dance
39:00 Navigating Fear and Re-Entering Dance
45:02 The Healing Power of Dance
52:04 Cultivating a Sustainable Artistic Career
57:02 Finding Contentment Amidst Chaos
About Spinks:
Spinks is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Brooklyn. First a musician, then a dancer, and eventually an actor, Spinks has found herself entirely devoted to the performing and visual arts her entire life. Her work has been displayed in various theaters, on stages big and small, in cinemas, and in the quiet pages of several magazines all around the world.
On screen, she's been lucky enough to work with the likes of Google, Clinique, Planned Parenthood, Bio Glitz, and Cocoa Jones (to name a few). Her writing can be found published in FROTH Magazine, Strong Young Thing Magazine, Mixed Mag, and Issues 1-3 of Susie Magazine. Her ceramics have been featured by Florence Contemporary Art Gallery and American Design Club.
When not working as an interpretive artist, she can be found experimenting in all things performing and media with her production company, VERNE.
Spencer Martinez, a South Jersey native with a love for Musical Theatre, earned her BA at FDU, becoming the first in her family to graduate. After backpacking through Europe, she kicked off her career with an Off-Broadway production in NYC. Adapting during COVID, she founded the LimeLight platform, providing accessibility and education to the industry.
Recently booking UGC for various companies and the NYC based "Moving UP" workshop, she not only strives for her own comeback but consistently gives back to the industry that fuels her passion. From a log cabin to Manhattan, Spencer's journey epitomizes resilience, creativity, and a commitment to community in the ever-evolving world of musical theatre.
In today’s episode, Spencer Martinez shares her experience with sexual harassment and how it influenced her ability to show up to auditions, what needs to change for both non-union and Equity performing artists, and how she learned to not make decisions based on fear.
She also discusses how “The Artist’s Way” led to a profound personal and professional realization and the steps that led to building confidence including switching voice teachers, using affirmations, and writing her “morning pages.”
Learn more about Spencer Martinez & The Story Project.
Davalois Fearon is a critically acclaimed choreographer, dancer, and educator, who is currently a Core Faculty Lecturer at Princeton University. Davalois was a 2017 Bessie awardee and a 2021-22 Jerome Hill Artist Fellow finalist. Her 12 years with the Stephen Petronio Company is now reflected in her work as founder and director of Davalois Fearon Dance (DFD).
DFD pushes artistic and social boundaries to highlight injustice and inequality and spark vital conversations about change. Fearon’s work has been presented nationally and internationally, including at the Joyce Theater and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Among many others, she has completed commissions for the Bronx Museum of the Arts and Barnard College. Her abundant honors and awards include DanceNYC’s Dance Advancement Fund Award and grants from the MAP Fund and the Howard Gilman Foundation.
In today’s episode, Davalois Fearon discusses the culture shock she experienced when moving from the Bronx to the SUNY Purchase campus in White Plains, her college experience, professional auditions, and joining of the Stephen Petronio Company. She also discusses the creation of her dance company, DFD, some of her brilliant works including Time to Talk and For C.J., the profound gifts she has received as both a mentee and mentor, and her biggest piece of advice for college students.
Learn more about Davalois Fearon & The Story Project.
*Note from the episode:
In the episode, Davalois says,”What is an unexpected title you would give yourself that disrupts the hierarchies? AKA, what is your degree from the Making Shit UP University?" This was learned from Ruha Benjamin, a Princeton Professor, who learned it from Michelle King, Educator Extraordinare.
LOLO (also known as Lauren Pritchard) is an artist, songwriter, actress, composer and mom who has spent the last two decades writing and performing all over the world. She originated a starring role in the 8-time Tony Award winning Broadway musical Spring Awakening and has released 4 full length albums as well as numerous singles and features.
LOLO’s songwriting work with the band Panic! At The Disco earned her a GRAMMY Nomination and she is a co-writer of their international hit “High Hopes” which holds the title for the longest running #1 Rock song in Billboard Chart history.
In November 2021, she produced and starred in the 15th Anniversary Spring Awakening Reunion Concert; a sold out, one-night-only concert at Broadway’s Imperial Theater in New York City. She was co-producer of the accompanying documentary, titled Those You’ve Known: Spring Awakening, released by HBO and Radical Media.
In today’s episode, LOLO discusses the significance of Spring Awakening, her experience as a young performer in a hit Broadway show, how the show impacted the lives of audience members, and the process of creating the 15 year anniversary reunion performance and accompanying HBO documentary. She also describes the challenges and rewards of being an artist in the entertainment industry, balancing motherhood and her career, and her decision to tell her story of abuse in an LA Times article.
Learn more about LOLO & The Story Project.
Tamisha Anthony is an illustrator working for clients such as Penguin Random House, Macmillan Publishers, Little Brown, and Chronicle Books. She recently finished her 6th picture book within 4 years, and is now working on her 7th and 8th.
Tamisha has taught at the New-York Historical Society and the Harlem School of the Arts, and is currently teaching an art history + illustration class called "Redrawing Black History" with Lilla Rogers for Make Art That Sells. Her new class "Find Your Art Style with Style" on the same platform will be available in 2025. Tamisha also writes and illustrates the article “Spilling the Tea with T” for Uppercase Magazine.
In today’s episode, Tamisha Anthony discusses her career as an illustrator and children's book author, how her personal style evolved and helps her be seen for who she truly is, & her background in dance and the decision to transition out of it to protect her mental health. She also discusses body image and the pressure to conform to certain standards in the dance industry, & how to identify “good stress” and move through the discomfort.
Learn more about Tamisha Anthony & The Story Project.
Karma Jenkins is a multi-hyphenate artist whose work on screen includes The Time Traveler's Wife (HBO), Ghost: PowerBook II (Starz) and The Last O.G (TBS). She’s appeared in commercials for Amazon Prime & William Hill Winery and is a member of SAG/AFTRA & Actors Equity.
Karma has worked across the United States at reputable regional stages such as The Old Globe, 5th Ave Theatre & The MUNY, and has recently joined the production side of upcoming new stage works. Karma believes that the change we want to happen starts in our own backyards and she is dedicated to the idea that art and activism go hand in hand.
In today’s episode, Karma discusses using one’s voice for change, the lack of diversity and representation behind the scenes in the entertainment industry, and the need for more diverse voices and perspectives in decision-making roles. She also discusses taking care of one’s mental health, finding outlets for self-expression and joy outside of the industry, and the power of being true to oneself in auditions.
Learn more about Karma Jenkins & The Story Project.
In today’s episode, Dinah Hampson discusses:
The importance of providing performers with the tools and resources to have sustainable career
Challenging the narrative that dancers must suffer and have short careers
Her online platform, Pivot Dancer, which offers resources and classes to help performers take care of their bodies and prevent injuries
The need for empowerment and mental performance skills for dancers
Abuse and unsafe practices in dance and the importance of creating a supportive community
Injury prevention, the importance of sleep, and the need to normalize strength training in dance
Dinah Hampson is a Physiotherapist who is passionate about enjoying life and using her knowledge to promote high performance in others. Dinah holds many certifications including the Sport Physio Diploma and International Sports Physiotherapist qualification, the Diploma of Manual & Manipulative Therapy and Pelvic Health Physiotherapy.
Dinah is the Founder of Pivot Sport Medicine, a multidisciplinary clinic in Toronto, Canada and Pivot Dancer, a virtual dance injury prevention platform with worldwide membership. Dinah has been on the Canadian medical team for over 15 multisport games, including the Olympics, Youth Olympics, Paralympic, Pan American, World University and Commonwealth Games.
Dinah trained in classical ballet, and brings a technical eye to her treatment of dancers and artistic athletes. Dinah works regularly with professional dancers from companies such as the National Ballet of Canada, Joffrey Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre, Singapore Ballet and, Cirque du Solei. Dinah is active in dance science research and is a regular conference presenter.
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Follow along on Dinah’s journey: @dinahhampson @pivotdancer
Transcript available on our website!
In today’s episode, Jhansi discusses:
Her recent move from India to America
The process of creating her music video “We Break Up Because of Family Reasons”
The challenges she faced as a musical theater artist in India
The cultural expectations and challenges of arranged marriages
Loneliness and struggling to find connection in New York City
Setting goals and exploring many interests
Jhansi is a musical theater director, creator, performer, lyricist, and composer. She takes her audience through a range of emotions from unexpected laughter to abrupt tears. Her candid performances focus on the stirring themes of youth, marriage, women’s equality, aspirations, anxiety, desperation, and hope, something that the masses can relate to in their own lives.
Jhansi was the First Indian to be accepted into the BA in Musical Theatre performance program at Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore. She was also a part of Queens of Comedy, which aired on TLC, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. She performed in one of India’s biggest Broadway shows, Aladdin, as Iago. She has directed and created multiple Original Musical Theatre shows including "Don't Eat My Face Pizza" and "Terrified of Twenty-Five”, along with countless collaborations for Broadway style music videos and massive scale festivals.
Jhansi moved to the United States to be a part of the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop in NYC as a lyricist and was also invited to become a permanent member of the American Comedy Group, Broad Comedy.
Follow along on Jhansi’s journey: @thejhansiway
Transcript available on our website!
In today’s episode, Heidi Miami Marshall discusses:
Heidi Miami Marshall’s career has spanned over 25 years as an Acting Coach, Film and Theater Director, Casting Director, and Acting Studio Owner. Originally, Heidi was the lead Casting Director at The Telsey Office for the Broadway musical RENT, as well as for 70+ projects in theater, film, TV, commercial, and voiceover. Heidi has directed on the Broadway shows THE ADDAMS FAMILY, BAZ LUHRMANN'S LA BOHÈME, and THE COLOR PURPLE.
Now the owner of a top acting studio, she’s coached countless actors into roles, and her on-camera training classes are highly regarded by reps and casting directors. She is frequently hired by directors and production studios to prep actors for auditions, screen tests and performance. Talent spans from new actors to Emmy award-winning. Notable collaborators include John Turturro, Baz Luhrmann, and Rob Marshall (no relation). Heidi's clients have graced the big and small screen, from indie to blockbuster, plus countless Broadway stages. She recently coached René Pérez (aka Residente) in Sundance Grand Jury Winner and Tribeca Spotlight Narrative film IN THE SUMMERS.
Also a director, Heidi’s simultaneous filmmaker career provides a keen sensitivity to what is needed from actors. Her work includes S.P.I.C. (Vail, Soho Intl', Bowery), MORE THAN (LAByrinth Theater Co.), MUSCLE (Cinequest, Sun Valley), AMBER, A THROUGH M (Cinequest, Palm Beach), and more. Heidi is the recipient of a NY Drama League Fellowship and American Film Institute’s Directing Workshop for Women.
Follow along on Heidi’s journey: @heidimarshallstudio
Transcript available on our website!
In today’s episode, Chryssie Whitehead discusses:
Chryssie Whitehead is an artist, author, director, choreographer, educator, mentor and producer who began her career as a Rockette. She made her Broadway Debut in the 2006 revival of A Chorus Line as Kristine, which was also captured in the hit documentary, Every Little Step. She is also heard on the cast album in "Sing" with Tony nominated actor, Tony Yazbeck.
She then joined the international tour of Fosse, played Kitty and understudied Velma in Broadway’s Chicago, performed alongside Neil Patrick Harris in Company at Lincoln Center, and danced on Paul McCartney’s international tour.
Chryssie's film and television credits include Stephen Spielberg’s West Side Story, Revenge of the Bridesmaids with Raven Symone, Grey’s Anatomy, and being the dance double in Save the Last Dance with Julia Stiles.
Chryssie is the Co-founder and Co-Director of Broadway Arts Community and its non-profit sister, Broader Than Broadway where she serves as a mentor and coach. She is currently on tour with her autobiographical play with music, In My Own Little Corner: My Moods, My Mom, and Me, as author, artist and lead producer, seeking to normalize conversations around mental health.
Follow along on Chryssie’s journey: @chryssiewhitehead
Transcript available on our website!
In today’s episode, Lauren Mariasoosay discusses:
Lauren Mariasoosay is an actress, singer, and dancer who is currently playing Eliza in the Hamilton Angelica 2.0 Tour! She previously performed in the original Canadian cast of SIX The Musical as Catherine Parr after being on the national tours of Aladdin and CATS. Lauren worked at the Disneyland Resort as a Dance Swing and Principle Vocalist whilst getting her BFA in Musical Theatre at Cal State Fullerton.
Lauren has spent a huge part of her career creating representation for south asian and mixed-race folks in the industry and is hoping to inspire more to join her on the way. She loves to paint, read, and make playlists when she isn’t screlting her face off for a living!
Follow along on Lauren’s journey: @laurenmariasoosay
Transcript available on our website!
In today’s episode, Tuan Malinowski discusses:
Tuan Malinowski is a New York-based director and choreographer, who most recently choreographed Cabaret at Northern Stage. They were the chosen choreographer for New York Theatre Barn’s Choreography Lab, where they were mentored by Emmy-winning, Tony-nominated choreographer Joshua Bergasse.
Tuan’s work as choreographer has also been seen at Jay Armstrong Johnson’s I Put A Spell On You: The Witches Era, Leg Up On Life’s Night of Life, Weathervane Theatre, as well as at universities such as Texas State University, Ithaca College, Viterbo University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
They have associate and assistant credits at theatres such as Goodspeed Musicals, Pittsburgh CLO and Theater Row. Tuan has performed at regional theatres across the country, such as Pittsburgh CLO, Casa Mañana, Kansas City Starlight Theatre and Flat Rock Playhouse. Tuan received their BFA from Ithaca College. They are a member of Actors’ Equity Association and an associate member of Society of Directors and Choreographers.
Follow along on Tuan’s journey: @tuanmalinowski
Transcript available on our website!
TW: Sexual assault
In the final episode of Season 2, Honza Pelichovský interviews Jess to follow up on last week's solo episode.
Jess shares:
The three changes she believes dance programs can make to improve the lives and careers of their dancers
Advice and loving words that she would tell my younger self
Whether or not she would take back her traumatic experience because of how it’s shaped her
How she feels about publicly sharing her story and the healing that it has offered
Her favorite parts of making this podcast (and more about her endless gratitude…)
Transcript available on our website!
In this solo episode, Jessica Altchiler dives into her personal journey and the evolution of The Story Project podcast. She reflects on her experiences, sharing anecdotes from her college years that shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for storytelling. Jessica recounts a pivotal moment in her life — her experience with sexual assault — and candidly discusses the profound impact it had on her. She goes on to share how the Me Too Movement influenced her and highlights the power of collective voices in fostering awareness and driving change.
Transcript available on our website!