Lead & Create

Sarah Blanc is one of those artists who brings her full self into everything she does—whether that’s creating punk gig-theatre for kids, making socially engaged performance, or showing up in her boldest fashion choices. Her work is funny, political, and always unapologetically her.In our chat, we talk about the real side of leadership: the moments when you can hold the space, and the moments when you need to step back and hand it over (including Sarah’s brilliant phrase, “time bitch”). We also touch on rejection, staying in your lane, and what it actually takes to keep showing up as yourself in this industry.And of course, we get into Punk Alley, her riotous kids’ show that gave young audiences permission to ask questions like “why is my brother smelly?” and “why aren’t trans rights taken seriously?”. It’s a reminder that children often see the world more clearly than we think—and that they’re not afraid to ask the difficult questions.This episode is equal parts funny, honest and thought-provoking—a true reflection of Sarah’s artistry and her way of leading.Check what Sarah's is up to following her IG account

Why do some student groups feel more motivated, engaged, and willing to take creative risks than others — even when you’re teaching the same curriculum? And as teachers, how much influence do we really have over those hidden dynamics?In this episode of the Lead & Create Podcast (also available on YouTube), Neus Gil Cortés dives into the undercurrents that shape a classroom or studio:How group roles and unofficial “leaders” affect behaviourThe power of social norms and how to shift themWhy clear definitions of success and expectancy matterWhat teachers can do (and what’s beyond our control)Drawing on her experience teaching since 2009 — from NDC Wales to Hofesh Shechter Company to the National Centre for Circus Arts — Neus shares practical insights to help teachers better understand and influence the learning environment.If you’ve ever wondered whether group dynamics are fixed or whether you can actively shape them, this episode is for you.Links:Watch this podcast as a video hereDownload the slides to visualise the key ideas of the training here Sign up to our newsletter to get more free resources here

In this episode of Lead & Create, Neus is joined by Adrian Porter, Head of Higher Education at the National Centre for Circus Arts and former Cirque du Soleil coach and performer. Adrian shares his journey from childhood gymnastics to international touring, reflecting on how curiosity and play became the foundations of his practice as both an artist and a leader.The conversation dives into what leadership looks like in different contexts — from the rehearsal studio to higher education — and how expectations, motivation, and trust shape creative learning environments. Adrian and Neus discuss the challenges of conflict, how to approach difficult conversations without blame, and why documenting, reflecting, and reframing are essential tools for growth.Together, they touch on circus training as higher education, the influence of sports science, the importance of creativity and empathy in teaching, and what it really takes to keep both students and professionals motivated over the long run.

What does it take to create actual healthy workspaces in dance — not just the ones we talk about? In this episode, I speak with Theo Clinkard — choreographer, teacher, designer, and longtime advocate for respectful creative processes.We explore what happens when dancers are treated as collaborators rather than vessels, how fear shows up in the studio (in both subtle and obvious ways), and what it really means to lead from a place of clarity without collapsing into people-pleasing.Theo reflects on his journey from dancing in major UK companies to rethinking leadership and ethics in his own practice — from calling out outdated norms to sharing the mistakes and tensions of trying to do better. We also touch on the responsibility of funders and programmers, the pressure to produce “more of the same,” and what a slower, more intentional pace might make possible.This isn’t a conversation full of soundbites — it’s a generous, layered exploration of the systems we’re in and how we might shift them together.00:00 – Theo joins the podcast and reflects on challenging outdated practices early in his career.02:39 – We unpack the harm in seeing dancers as “instruments” and why dancer agency matters.06:40 – Theo shares experiences of toxic work culture and asks why we still tolerate it.12:50 – What does a truly healthy creative space look like — and how can we make one?25:09 – How can choreographers be better supported? What does a sustainable practice look like?30:08 – The pressure of being “a singular vision” and how it affects collaboration.33:24 – Who holds power in the sector? Theo shares thoughts on funders, programmers, and responsibility.40:22 – What happens when care and feedback are built into the process from the beginning?49:31 – The crossover between teaching and choreographing — and how they inform each other.56:50 – Final reflections on rest, ambition, identity, and staying open as an artist.🎧 Resources Mentioned in This Episode"As Technique" – Article by Theo ClinkardDownload hereBook: Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel KahnemanView on Goodreads Book: The Ignorant Schoolmaster: Five Lessons in Intellectual Emancipation by Jacques RancièreLearn more on publisher siteInterested in the leadership for teachers course? Subscribe to our newsletter to know when bookings open in early September

We know rest is important. We know we should see friends and take breaks from our screens. But even when we know what’s good for us… we often don’t do it. So what’s really going on?In this episode, Neus Gil Cortes explores twelve reflections to support your mental health as a choreographer — through the lens of four vital relationships: with yourself, with others, with the world, and with your purpose.These aren’t your typical wellbeing tips. Think of them more like perspective shifts — on sleep, loneliness, perfectionism, connection, boundaries, and how to stay grounded in an unpredictable freelance life.Plus: a few thoughts on why letting yourself feel joy might be part of how you keep showing up for others.🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:✨ Happiness as an act of resistance by Skye C. ClearyInspired this episode’s reflection on joy, resilience, and social responsibility — and referenced in connection with Simone de Beauvoir and Albert Camus.👉 Read here 📝 Download the free Mid-Year Check In: Vision, Value & ActionA reflective tool to help you check in with your wellbeing across the four areas — self, others, world, and purpose.👉 Download here 💬 Book a 1-to-1 SessionIf this episode stirred something and you want space to talk it through, you can book a personalised support session by filling this form

What if being fearless isn't the goal? In this episode of Lead & Create, Neus Gil Cortes explores how fear shows up in the lives of choreographers and artist-leaders — and why it’s not something we need to eliminate, but something we need to understand.From funding uncertainty to creative vulnerability, Neus shares personal reflections, common fears in freelance life, and practical tools to help you lead with more awareness when fear arises.This is part of the “How To” series, offering grounded insights for creative leadership in the dance sector.🔗 Let us support you as a leader:FREE RESOURCE: Mid Year Check In- Vision, Value and Action for Freelance Choreographers.A reflective workbook to check in with yourself, realign and dream forward.👉 Get it hereLead & Create Leadership CoursesTraining for independent choreographers and teachers who want to navigate leadership with care, clarity and confidence.👉 https://leadandcreate.uk/leadership-training/1-to-1 Sessions with Neus Gil CortesBook a personalised session with me to reflect, untangle specific challenges or plan your next steps.👉 Fill in this formFollow Lead & Create on Instagram

Welcome back to a brand new season of Lead & Create! We're starting with a big question: what is in your power?As independent choreographers, it’s easy to feel powerless — caught between shrinking funding, uncertain futures, and working environments that don’t always support us. But what if the power we long for is already within reach?In this episode, Neus reflects on:– Why the current landscape makes artists feel small– How to rethink leadership and authority without recreating old hierarchies– The power of tender, intentional leadership– What Kasia Urbaniak calls “relational power” — and how to use it– A short writing exercise to help you shift unbalanced dynamicsWe also share details of the Rethinking Leadership Picnic on 25th July in London — a chance to gather, share food and ideas, and reimagine what leadership in dance could look like.Whether you’re leading a company, running a project, or just trying to find your next step — this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now and start the season with clarity, confidence, and (urgent) optimism.🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode🌱 Join the Rethinking Leadership Picnic📍 Friday 25th July, near Sadler’s Wells East, London👉 Sign up here 🎓 Leadership Support for Independent Artists– 1:1 Leadership Sessions with Neus: Fill in this form– Leadership for Teachers (in-person training): Sign up to our newsletter to get details when booking opens– Leadership for Choreographers (online course): Sign up to our newsletter to get details when booking opens📚 Books & Thinkers Referenced– Not the End of the World by Hannah Ritchie– Kasia Urbaniak (Power dynamics & authority work)💌 Stay in TouchWant to share your reflections or ask about training?📬 Email Neus: admin@leadandcreate.uk 📸 Instagram: @leadandcreate🌍 Website: leadandcreate.uk

In this final episode of the How to Sell a Show mini-series, Neus shares the surprising final booking numbers for Bending Reality — and how nearly 100 people booked just days before the show. She reflects on the flurry of last-minute marketing efforts, what may (or may not) have worked, and the deeper realisation that emerged through all the stress: she really wants this career.It’s a wrap-up filled with gratitude for her team, lessons about technical prep, and a newfound commitment to planning the next phase more strategically.Plus, a heads up — a Lead & Create picnic is on the way!

Neus returns after a short silence to share what happened when the ticket sales stayed slow despite every marketing strategy in the book. In this honest, reflective episode, she talks about navigating a dip in motivation, what helped her reconnect to the creative process, and how prepping the space, listening to her favourite music, and owning her nerves all contributed to a richer rehearsal week.This is a check-in on the messy middle — when things don’t go viral, and yet, the art is quietly coming together.

In this second episode of the “How to Sell a Show” mini-series, I wake up grumpy — not just because we haven’t sold ten more tickets (we’re at 35 with 3 weeks to go), but because I’m running on empty. So this one’s about burnout, being honest when you’re not OK, and how sometimes naming what’s wrong gives you the energy to act.We talk about:Power, ‘good girl’ conditioning, and why I haven’t handed out flyers at my own workplaceHow a new trailer and a few bold asks made a differenceCreative workarounds when the answer is noThe quiet win of someone saying “Hey, aren’t you the one with the show at Jacksons Lane?”It’s a bit messy, a bit raw, but full of small shifts that (hopefully) lead to big change.Curious about the show we are selling and the new trailer? Follow this link: https://www.jacksonslane.org.uk/events/bending-reality/#book 

Welcome to the first bite-sized episode of Lead & Create: The Mini-Series!Neus Gil Cortes shares the real (and slightly chaotic) behind-the-scenes of trying to sell a new dance-circus show in 2025. With one month to go before the premiere of Bending Reality, she talks painfully slow sales, algorithm woes, black-and-white photos that Instagram hates, and the desperate hope that audiences do still exist.Expect honesty, humour, and a little bit of panic — plus the start of a weekly countdown to opening night.Want to see the show I'm talking about? Book here!

In this last episode of Season 1 of the Lead & Create process, host Neus Gil Cortes meets fellow choreographer and friend Miguel Altunaga to explore the intersection of art, self-awareness, and leadership in dance. Both Neus and Miguel share insights from their extensive experience in the industry, highlighting the importance of vulnerability, community, and personal growth in the creative process. Miguel discusses the challenges of understanding oneself as an artist while seeking deeper meaning in one's work. The conversation covers the significance of 'gym for thoughts,' where artists train their minds with the same dedication as their bodies, and the fluid dynamic of a creative room that fosters acceptance and allows dancers to express their authenticity. Neus and Miguel also touch on developing leadership that emphasizes respect, communication, and encouragement over authority, reshaping traditional norms within the dance community. Overall, the dialogue is a testament to the power of art as a form of self-expression and personal evolution. The episode concludes with a reflection on the joys of the artistic journey, advocating for a mindful approach that embraces the ever-changing process of creation.Resources:Online Leadership Course for Independent Choreographers 14 Oct-22 Nov More information and bookings here: leadandcreate.uk/coursebooking

Navigating Leadership in Dance: Insights with Yukiko MasuiIn this episode of the Lead and Create podcast, host Neus Gil Cortes, an experienced Spanish choreographer, discusses leadership in the dance industry with Yukiko Masui, a Tokyo-born choreographer based in London. Yukiko shares her journey in combining hip hop and contemporary dance, her experience with different leadership styles, and the importance of communication, empathy, and creating a balance between care and pushing physical limits in dance. The conversation also touches on the challenges of working in hierarchical and non-hierarchical environments, the intricacies of co-creating with another choreographer, and the impact of cultural backgrounds on leadership approach. Yukiko's experiences, including her time on the Equity Dance Committee and participating in the Clore Emerging Leadership Workshop, have shaped her leadership philosophy. The episode offers valuable insights into Yukiko's growth as a leader, the process of building meaningful relationships within the dance community, and the significance of self-awareness and intention in leadership roles.If you want to develop your leadership style be sure to book for our Online Leadership Course starting 14 October. Click here

Exploring Radically Tender Dance Theatre with Rhiannon FaithIn this episode of the Lead and Create podcast, host Neus Gil Cortes, a seasoned Spanish choreographer and dramaturg, interviews the groundbreaking artist, Rhiannon Faith. The conversation highlights Rhiannon's unique approach to dance theatre, explaining some her recent projects, 'Lay Down Your Burdens' and 'The Care We See.' They delve into the concept of 'radically tender' art, discussing the importance of vulnerability, community, and care within the creative process. Rhiannon also shares insights on the parallel between motherhood and leadership, creating safe spaces for artist collaboration, and the essential support structures they use in the company, including having a therapist for cast, participants and audiences, but also the importance of the team and the collaboration with Maddy Morgan. The episode wraps up with Neus announcing her new online leadership course designed to empower choreographers in leadership roles.In this episode of the Lead and Create podcast, host Neus Gil Cortes, a seasoned Spanish choreographer and teacher, interviews the groundbreaking artist, Rhiannon Faith. The conversation highlights Rhiannon's unique approach to dance theater, focusing on her recent projects, 'Lay Down Your Burdens' and 'The Care We See.' They delve into the concept of 'radically tender' art, discussing the importance of vulnerability, community, and care within the creative process. Rhiannon also shares insights on the parallel between motherhood and leadership, creating safe spaces for artist collaboration, and the essential support structures they use in the company, including having a therapist for cast, participants and audiences, but also the importance of the team and the support of Maddy Morgan. The episode wraps up with Neus announcing her new online leadership course designed to empower choreographers in leadership roles.00:00 Introduction to the Lead and Create Podcast00:55 Meet Rhiannon Faith: A Boundary-Breaking Artist01:57 Recent Projects and Creative Endeavors05:20 The Concept of Radically Tender Dance Theater11:58 Parallels between Motherhood and Leadership20:47 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerable Topics31:25 The Importance of Collaboration and Support47:27 Conclusion and Upcoming Leadership CourseLinks:Rhiannon Faith companyBookings are open for our online leadership course!

Reimagining Leadership with Reece McMahon and So'l JelenkeWelcome to another episode of Lead and Create, where we delve into the transformative practices reshaping leadership in the arts. I’m thrilled to be joined by two trailblazers in the dance community: Reece McMahon and So'l Jelenke.In this episode, Reece and So'l share their journey through a groundbreaking transformation at Chisenhale Dance Space, an iconic venue in East London. Reece, who became the executive director in 2022, and So'l, a vibrant member of Chisenhale's newly established Artist Committee, discuss how Chisenhale has flipped traditional leadership models on their head to empower its artists in unprecedented ways.Reece provides insight into the evolution of Chisenhale from a member-led organisation to a new artist-centred governance model. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of reintegrating a more inclusive and equitable approach, emphasising how the shift aligns with Chisenhale's 40-year legacy of supporting marginalised voices in the arts.So'l, who joined Chisenhale post-transformation, offers a unique perspective on what it’s like to be part of this revolutionary change. She talks about her motivations for joining, the importance of community, and how Chisenhale’s commitment to anti-racism and inclusivity resonates with her personal values.We dive deep into their experiences and explore how past leadership roles have influenced their current practices. This episode promises an engaging discussion on leadership, inclusivity, and the future of artist-led initiatives.Before we dive in, don’t forget to check out our upcoming six-week online leadership course, designed to help independent choreographers build strong foundations for successful collaborations and personal growth--Book here or Sign up for our newsletter to keep in touch with other activities we do.Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Reece McMahon and So'l Jelenke as they share their experiences and insights into redefining leadership in the arts.

In this episode of Lead & Create, Neus Gil Cortes takes you through some key insights into navigating relationships as an independent choreographer. She shares a personal story about a chance encounter with Eva Martinez at the Welsh Dance Platform Festival, reflecting on how to approach relationships with programmers and overcome imposter syndrome. Neus also explores the importance of collaboration, highlighting how critical it is to choose the right people for your projects, establish clear expectations, and set up professional boundaries—especially when working with friends. Drawing from her experience teaching at the National Center for Circus Arts, she emphasizes the value of stepping into new creative environments and the learning that comes from teaching and mentoring.Additionally, Neus offers practical advice on how to explain your work clearly and avoid jargon, how to find mentors by shadowing emerging artists, and why building a community among choreographers is so important. To support you on your journey, she shares tips on contracts, communication, and leadership in creative spaces.If you're looking to elevate your practice, refine your collaborations, and be part of a supportive community of creators, this episode is packed with essential guidance. Plus, Neus introduces her new WhatsApp group for choreographers, offering a safe space to ask questions and share experiences.Tune in and get ready to deepen your understanding of what it means to lead and create as a choreographer!Resources:- Subscribe to our mailing list here to know when bookings for our online leadership course open.- Get your guide to never miss a step in choosing your collaborators! Download it here- This is the spreadsheet I've created with residencies me and other choreographers from the WhatsApp group would recommend, there are many more of course! I will keep updating it with new ones as I find others. View here- If you want to be added to the choreographers' questions WhatsApp group email me at leadandcreate@gmail.com 

Ever wondered how to genuinely embed accessibility into your creative practice without it feeling like an afterthought? Are you striving to create meaningful work for communities with specific access needs and looking for innovative ways to enrich their experience?In this episode, we share our journey of incorporating accessibility for deaf audiences into the creative process of NOISE—a project three years in the making. From two rounds of R&D to an interactive BBC film and a live immersive performance, we discuss how we continuously evolved our approach by listening to artists, consultants, audiences, and venues. Tune in for insights, challenges, and practical ideas on making access a core part of your creative work.In this episode, you’ll get insights about:- How to make accessibility an integral part of your creative process from the beginning- Practical ideas for working with communities with specific access needs- The importance of listening to artists, consultants, and audiencesResources:Towards the end of the episode I talk about a video that Stopgap has created to explain best seating for different access needs that you can find hereFor Access Riders and general access information, check Unlimited's website hereTo know more about the Pastoral Care Offer check Grace's website hereSign up to our newsletter here to be the first to know when our leadership course launches.

In this episode of the "Lead & Create" podcast, we explore the emotional challenges that come with being a choreographer and artist, especially when facing criticism, rejection, and self-doubt. Drawing insights from articles, books and conversations with other artists, we discuss how to navigate the sting of negative feedback, protect your art, and build resilience. Tune in for practical tips to understand and manage those strong emotions, like choosing whose feedback to value, and maintaining a strong connection to your artistry. Whether you're a choreographer, artist, or creative leader, this episode offers valuable advice on staying strong in your creative journey.Links:Sign up to our newsletter hereSusie Moore article on Business Insider here

Join Neus Gil Cortes in an insightful conversation with choreographer Becky Naumgauds. Becky shares her experiences and challenges in the dance industry, touching on themes of feminist activism, leadership, and the importance of consent. They delve into the nuances of leading diverse dance groups, learning from past leadership styles, and the personal growth that comes from embracing mistakes. A must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, activism, and leadership.00:00 Introduction to the Lead and Create Podcast00:55 Meet Becky Namgouds: Multidisciplinary Artist02:50 Activism in Art: Becky's Perspective06:38 Challenging Leadership Experiences13:05 Navigating Consent and Autonomy in Dance17:14 The Importance of Support and Self-Care21:08 Lessons from Rodadoras: A Choreographic Journey30:32 East Wall Production: A Learning Experience37:25 Reflections on Leadership and Teaching40:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ever felt like an outsider in your own family? Or like you are a different person professionally and at home?In this episode of Lead and Create, Neus Gil Cortes explores how family interactions can teach us essential leadership lessons as choreographers. We'll cover 11 key leadership lessons that Neus, a mother of two, takes from parenting advice, and you will be amazed at how well they serve professional interactions too! Share your thoughts and connect with us on Instagram @leadandcreate or send us an email. Let's continue this conversation together!