Dance Behind The Screen

#153: In this special Season 7 finale, host Martheya reflects on a season shaped by the intersection of strategic planning, technology, and creative leadership in the arts. From AI and immersive performance to community collaboration and sustainable growth, this episode invites listeners to explore what it means to design a creative path guided by purpose, curiosity, and integrity. Drawing from standout conversations with visionary guests, Martheya shares practical insights from the season — from redefining "strategy" as a personal practice to embracing adaptability and reflection as vital parts of the creative process.    00:00 Welcome and Season Overview 02:09 Key Takeaways from the Season 02:56 Deep Dive into Core Principles 05:16 Strategic Planning and Creative Freedom 06:07 Reflection and Sustainable Artistry 06:57 Final Thoughts and What's Next 07:28 Thank You and Farewell   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.  

#152: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, host Martheya speaks with choreographer, filmmaker, and performer Margot Gelber about the emotional depth and collaborative process behind her award-winning dance film If I Were You — an official selection of the kNOwBOX dance Film Festival. Together, they explore how vulnerability and strength coexist in the creative process, how artistic leadership emerges through trust, and what it takes to translate an inner vision into movement on screen. Margot shares her approach to cultivating authentic collaboration and crafting choreography that lingers beyond the frame. Tune in to discover how emotional nuance, artistic clarity, and embodied trust intersect both on and off the screen. (35:22)    00:00 Margot Gelber 00:45 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:34 Margot Gelber's Film Journey 05:04 Strategic Planning for Dance Films 07:49 Crowdfunding and Budgeting Insights 13:33 Promotion and Festival Submissions 17:49 Emerging Technologies in Dance 22:35 Creative Process and Collaboration 24:52 Advice for Emerging Filmmakers 28:08 Current and Future Projects 32:54 Flash Four Segment 33:47 Conclusion and Farewell   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

#151:In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, host Martheya sits down with multidisciplinary artist Gabri Christa, whose work moves fluidly between choreography, filmmaking, performance, writing, and education. Born and raised in the Dutch Caribbean, Gabri brings a global and deeply personal perspective to her art, weaving stories of identity, ancestry, and memory that illuminate the intersections of culture, race, and history. Tune in to discover how Gabri Christa builds bridges between the spirit and the screen, inviting us to move through history and imagination with purpose and grace. (39:32)    Chapters 00:00 Gabri Christa 00:45 Introduction to Dance Behind the Screen 01:03 Meet Gabri: A Multidisciplinary Force 01:56 Exploring Identity, Memory, and Ancestry 02:17 Leadership and Intuition in Storytelling 03:34 The Importance of Team Dynamics 08:07 Technology in Filmmaking and Choreography 13:59 The Role of Intuition and Preparation 22:50 Advice for Emerging Dance and Film Artists 30:24 Saying No to the Box and Yes to the Future of Dance 36:22 Flash Four: Quick Insights 37:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

#150: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast, host Martheya chats with visionary choreographer and RUBBERBAND founder Victor Quijada. From his hip hop roots in Los Angeles to creating the groundbreaking RUBBERBAND Method—a fusion of hip hop, ballet, and contemporary dance—Victor shares his journey, creative process, and insights on breaking boundaries, staying authentic in the digital age, and transforming dreams into reality. (48:01)    Chapters 00:32 — Introduction and Welcome 01:53 — Origins of the RUBBERBAND Method 10:41 — Building RUBBERBAND 18:04 — Leadership and Team Building 25:13 — Dance Performance and Audience Experience 28:39 — Film and Choreography 36:15 — Creative Process and Innovation 40:49 — Flash Four Q&A 47:22 — Closing and Contact Information   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

En este episodio de "Dance Behind the Screen", Wilber conversa con Axel, bibliotecólogo, artista plástico y apasionado del movimiento, sobre la historia y filosofía de la Nueva Red de Bailadores. Descubre cómo este proyecto ha revolucionado la escena de la danza en México y más allá, promoviendo el "baile libre": un espacio sin alcohol, sin acoso, sin competencia y sin costo, donde la comunidad y la inclusión son protagonistas.   Axel comparte anécdotas, retos y aprendizajes de casi una década impulsando eventos donde todos pueden bailar y aportar, sin importar edad, experiencia o recursos. Hablamos sobre la importancia de crear alternativas al modelo capitalista en el arte, el poder del intercambio y la colaboración, y cómo la música y la danza pueden transformar realidades y romper barreras sociales.   No te pierdas este episodio inspirador que demuestra que la libertad, la diversión y la comunidad pueden florecer a través del arte y la creatividad.  ¡Dale play y únete al movimiento del baile libre!     00:00 Introducción al pódcast 00:51 Presentación del invitado: Axel / Nueva Red de Bailadores 02:06 El nacimiento de la nueva red de danza 06:14 Principios fundamentales: sin alcohol, sin acoso, sin competencia y sin costo 13:54 Comunidad e intercambio en la red de danza 28:39 El papel del DJ en la red de danza 37:14 Estrategia e impacto en redes sociales 43:41 Filosofía de la danza y activismo 46:52 Flash Four: preguntas rápidas 48:32 Próximos eventos y cierre     Referencias: Textos de Isadora Duncan.

#149: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, Martheya talks with Amy Elizabeth (Smith) — dance maker, arts administrator, educator — about dance as a practice of connection and change. Amy shares how she navigates interdisciplinary collaborations, balances artistry with institutional demands, and builds supportive spaces for artists. From questions of identity and belonging to the impact of technology on creative opportunities, this conversation spotlights Amy's vision for reimagining what it means to be an artist today. (45:33)   00:00 Amy Elizabeth (Smith) 00:44 Introduction to Dance Behind the Screen Podcast 01:07 Meet Amy Elizabeth: Dance Leader and Educator 02:09 Defining Purpose in Dance 03:10 Strategic Shifts and Community Engagement 04:12 Challenges and Resources in Southeast Texas 07:18 Building a New Board and Starting Over 17:20 Programming and Community Impact 20:32 Funding and Sustainability 26:09 Cultivating Individual Donors 36:41 Mentorship and Radical Curiosity 41:48 Flash Four Segment and Conclusion 45:03 Outros   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

#148: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, Martheya talks with arts leader Anne Kogan to explore what it means to innovate while staying rooted in community. Anne shares insights from her career bridging artistic vision and organizational leadership, highlighting strategies for navigating change, fostering collaboration, and reimagining the role of the arts in today's world. Listeners will gain practical takeaways on leadership, adaptability, and the power of creativity in shaping the future of the arts. (44:17)   00:00 Leadership & Innovation in the Arts with Anne Kogan 00:45 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Guest 01:43 Evaluating Community Arts Programs 05:49 Balancing Wants and Needs in Arts Programming 07:45 Setting Tangible Goals and Using Logic Models 12:10 Key Elements of Resilient Arts Organizations 17:33 No Box Dance: Strengths and Opportunities 20:26 Emerging Trends in Community Engagement 24:06 Defining High-Quality Arts Experiences 27:46 Technology in Arts Programming 30:18 Storytelling in Dance and Technology 40:00 Flash Four: Quick Insights and Recommendations   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

#147: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, Martheya talks with Deborah McMurray, founder and CEO of Content Pilot and a recognized leader in legal strategy, branding, and technology. Deborah shares insights from her work with top law firms, her creative journey as an author, and her service on nonprofit boards—revealing how strategy, storytelling, and innovation connect across industries and the arts. (49:00) 00:00 Deborah McMurray  00:45 Introduction and Guest Welcome 03:09 Background and Career Journey 06:06 Marketing and PR Strategies for Artists 08:14 Importance of Clear Messaging 12:08 Emotional Connection in Digital Communication 17:41 Technology and Tools for Storytelling 18:55 Effective Use of Video in Marketing 24:18 The Power of Video in Legal Newsletters 25:39 Board Memberships and Roles 28:27 Insights on Nonprofit Board Recruitment 34:28 Strategic Planning for Nonprofits 38:46 Social Media Strategies for Nonprofits 43:12 FLASH 4 47:19 Conclusion and Staying Connected   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

#146: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, host Martheya talks with Suzanne Smith, founder and CEO of Social Impact Architects, about what it takes to design a blueprint for creative impact. Suzanne shares how nearly three decades of experience at the intersection of nonprofit, government, and business have shaped her approach to leadership and innovation. Together, they unpack what it means to dream bigger while building structures that last, why cross-sector collaboration is essential for solving today's challenges, and how artists and changemakers can balance vision with execution. (44:02) Chapters 00:00 The Blueprint for Creative Impact with Suzanne Smith, Social Impact Architects 00:44 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:43 Suzanne Smith's Multifaceted Career 04:47 Defining Mission, Vision, and Strategic Planning 07:18 The Importance of Clear Messaging 23:28 Strategic Planning: Clarity, Capacity, and Courage 24:57 Building a Strong Organizational Culture 25:40 Tools and Exercises for Strategic Planning 28:24 Resilience and Agility in Arts Organizations 29:50 Engaging and Growing Your Audience 32:14 Creating Audience-Centered Experiences 35:34 The Importance of Feedback and Surveys 39:54 Flash Four: Quick Insights and Recommendations   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

#145: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, host Martheya chats with creative entrepreneur and educator Emi Matsushita about blending science, business, and the arts to empower dancers. They explore emotional nuance in choreography, artistic leadership, and building sustainable careers through coaching and entrepreneurship. (44:23) Chapters 00:00 Emi Matsushita 00:44 Introduction to Dance Behind the Screen 01:03 Meet Emi: A Journey of Multidisciplinary Influence 02:36 The Intersection of Dance and Entrepreneurship 06:13 Navigating the Creative Pathway 12:47 Communicating Your Authentic Self 21:44 Embracing Technology in Dance 27:19 AI in Education and Entrepreneurship 37:14 Empowering Artists and Building Community 42:24 Flash Four: Quick Insights with Emi   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

La conversación explora el enfoque interdisciplinario de Liz, que combina danza, ecología, feminismo y tecnología. Ella comparte su visión de la ecología como una relación con el paisaje y también como una conexión más amplia con el territorio y la comunidad, y cómo estas ideas influyen en su proceso creativo. Liz enfatiza la importancia de la voz y el lenguaje en su trabajo, defendiendo la claridad, la colaboración y la autenticidad tanto en el escenario como en la vida. El episodio también aborda los retos y posibilidades del trabajo artístico independiente, el valor de la autopromoción, así como las inspiraciones y proyectos futuros de Liz.   00:00 Introducción al podcast 00:29 Presentación de la invitada: Lis 01:55 Definiendo ecología 04:24 Ecología y danza 05:47 Experiencias personales con la ecología 07:30 El papel de la voz en la danza 13:43 Comunicación de ideas y colaboración 17:17 Enfoque interdisciplinario 21:31 Conexión con la Ciudad de México 24:05 Inspiraciones y referencias creativas 26:36 Aspiraciones a futuro 30:36 Flash Four y cierre   Referencias: Ubu web: https://www.ubu.com     Redes sociales: Instagram @almostbleu__

#144: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, host Martheya chats with Emily Bernet and Taylor Rodman, co-artistic directors of Bombshell Dance Project, about breaking boundaries between performers and audiences. Discover how they fuse dance and theater to craft immersive, emotionally charged experiences, use technology to expand impact, and strategize for sustainability and growth. Tune in for fresh insights on creative risk-taking, audience engagement, and empowering female leadership in dance. (39:56)    Chapters 00:44 Introduction to Dance Behind the Screen Podcast 01:13 Meet Bombshell Dance Project 01:40 Creating Immersive Dance Experiences 02:33 Breaking Traditional Boundaries 03:33 Engaging Audiences in Unique Ways 05:00 Innovative Performances and Audience Interaction 12:46 The Role of Technology in Dance 15:41 Strategic Planning and Collaboration 20:11 Funding and Sustainability 26:41 Building a Community and Audience 31:15 Empowering Female Artists and Leadership  36:41 Final Thoughts and Flash Four Round   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

Carmen Ixchel nos comparte cómo su práctica interdisciplinaria fusiona la danza, la tecnología y el archivo, explorando la relación entre el cuerpo y los medios digitales. Al compartirnos sobre sus obras, Carmen reflexiona sobre los límites y posibilidades que la tecnología ofrece en la creación escénica, la importancia de la apropiación de imágenes, el uso de redes sociales y la nostalgia del archivo familiar. ¡Descubre todo lo que influyen en su proceso creativo y en la forma en que Carmen conecta con el público!   00:30 Presentación de la artista 03:19 Primeros experimentos con el videoarte 07:13 Interacción y experiencia del público 11:32 Redes sociales y expresión artística 13:11 Carmen habla sobre su obra con un dron 17:02 La vulnerabilidad de la escena 20:30 TikTok y K-Pop 22:28 El papel de los archivos en el arte 25:19 Crear a partir del archivo 26:58 La nostalgia del archivo y el futuro del arte 30:56 Flash Four y comentarios finales   Referencias: Libro: "Los condenados de la pantalla" de Hito Steyerl. Influencer/artista: "Smac" Sarah McCreanor

#143: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, host Martheya sits down with Rai Barnard, a queer Dallas-based choreographer and performer. Rai creates contemporary dance works rooted in lived experience and influenced by their background in both dance and biology. They share insights into their creative process and offer practical advice for independent artists: highlighting the value of community engagement, building strategic partnerships, and balancing digital and traditional media for effective outreach. (42:31)   00:00 Introduction to Dance Behind the Screen 01:02 Meet Rai Barnard: A Visionary Choreographer 04:58 The Intersection of Dance and Biology 10:06 Technology's Role in Enhancing Dance 13:52 Exploring Identity in Dance and Marketing 17:56 Practical Tips for Independent Artists 28:00 The Importance of Community and Partnerships 38:23 Flash Four: Quick Insights with Rai Barnard 41:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   To watch the show click HERE. Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

La Sociedad del Paisaje es una agrupación de artistas interdisciplinarios que explora las conexiones entre la danza, la naturaleza y la colaboración creativa en el México contemporáneo. Reflexionan sobre la improvisación, la influencia de los paisajes y la importancia de abrazar perspectivas diversas. El pódcast profundiza en cómo las prácticas artísticas pueden desafiar el pensamiento convencional y propiciar relaciones más profundas entre los seres humanos y el entorno. 00:00 Introducción al podcast 00:30 Conoce a las y los invitados: Sociedad del Paisaje 03:26 La esencia de la Sociedad del Paisaje 07:47 Improvisación y afectividades 09:51 El papel de la naturaleza en el arte 11:00 La improvisación como forma de vida 14:36 Adaptar el arte a diferentes contextos 37:36 El concepto de La Vía Negativa 39:45 Hackear las prácticas artísticas 52:22 El simbolismo de la montaña 01:02:47 Flash Four   Referencias mencionadas: Libro: "Escuela de aprendices" de Marina Garcés Película: "Lanscape in the Mist" de Theo Angelopoulos Danza: Las obras de Rodrigo Angoitia  

#142: In the season seven premiere of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast, Martheya from KNOWBOX DANCE introduces the theme of strategic planning and technological innovation in arts and culture. She reflects on KNOWBOX's journey through the TACA Arts Accelerator Program, emphasizing the development of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan. Martheya provides an overview of KNOWBOX Dance's mission, core values, and the organization's commitment to merging dance with technology. She highlights the unique approach of their dance think tank, aims of artist empowerment, and initiatives to expand accessibility and global visibility. The episode closes with an invitation to join their efforts and explore further details through their strategic plan link. (14:19)    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Season Seven 01:25 Reflecting on KNOWBOX's Transformation 02:55 Meet the KNOWBOX Team 03:16 The Importance of Dance in Today's World 04:09 KNOWBOX's Mission and Vision 05:24 Core Values of KNOWBOX  07:50 Innovative Programming and Accessibility 10:23 Strategic Goals and Future Plans 12:31 Conclusion and Call to Action To watch the show click HERE. For a Strategic Planning in Arts Organizations Lesson Plan click HERE.   https://www.knowboxdance.com/strategic-plan https://www.knowboxdance.com/about https://taca-arts.org/programs/arts-accelerator/ Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home  This Season of Dance Behind the Screen Podcast is powered in part by TACA and Moody Fund for the Arts.

Sarah Tran, Founder and Artistic Director of  TranScend Motion, joins Martheya to talk about Creating Dance Content. They discuss building her company TranScend Motion, creating content for social media, and tips for starting your own company. (29:28)  Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home

Erica "EG" Gionfriddo, Co-Founder of ARCOS, joins Martheya to talk about multi/trans/inter/anti-disciplinary dance & technology. They discuss ARCOS, how social media has shifted artmaking, building your portfolio online, and the impact of AI in the classroom . (41:43)  Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home

Erica Felicella, Dallas-based interdisciplinary artist, joins Martheya to talk about The Element of Surprise. They discuss mentorship in the arts, Dallas Aurora, AI, and the digital arts. (31:51)  Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home

Dr. Adesola Akinleye, an interdisciplinary dancer and choreographer artist-scholar, joins Martheya to talk about Dance and Augmented Reality. They discuss spatial practices, perceived borders, and DancingStrong Movement Lab. (41:43)  Episode Show kNOwtes | Podcast Home