Episode Summary:

Angelica Stiskin, a distinguished artistic director and choreographer, offers a deep dive into her multifaceted dance career and her educational initiatives at the Joffrey Ballet School. From her early beginnings in New Jersey to becoming a global force in dance, Angelica shares the trajectory of her career, including her mentorship under Billy Larson and her innovative work in choreographing for prestigious events like New York Fashion Week.

As the artistic director of the Joffrey Ballet School, Angelica has played a pivotal role in broadening the curriculum to include both concert and commercial dance, emphasizing the importance of a diverse education in the arts.

Angelica discusses the challenges and rewards of her career, particularly in adapting to unexpected opportunities and the evolving landscape of dance genres. She stresses the importance of perseverance, believing in oneself, and the pursuit of passion, which she believes are key to thriving in the competitive dance industry.

The podcast also touches on the balance between professional and personal life, a theme that resonates deeply with Angelica as she navigates her roles as an educator, choreographer, and director. Her insights into setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care are valuable for anyone looking to sustain a long-term career in dance.

Show Notes:

• (0:03) Dance industry insights with an artistic director.

• (2:57) Early years of dancer Angelica Siskin, including training, mentors, and education.

• (6:36) Artistic director role at Joffrey Ballet School.

• (13:35) Balancing concert and commercial dance education.

• (19:47) Diversifying dance training and career paths.

• (22:31) The importance of believing in oneself and pursuing one's passions.

• (26:54) Work-life balance and prioritizing personal life.

• (31:11) Balancing personal and professional life.

• (36:17) Higher education, master's degrees, and relevancy in dance industry.

• (41:01) Revolutionizing the education system for dancers.

• (51:29) The importance of reputation and relationships in the dance industry.

Biography:

Angelica Stiskin is internationally recognized for her versatility as a choreographer, director, performer, and dance educator. She is honored to lead the next generation of artists as the Artistic Director of Joffrey Ballet School’s Jazz & Contemporary Trainee Program and Flagship Jazz & Contemporary summer intensive, SPECTRUM.

She began her trajectory at Joffrey Ballet School as choreographer and educator in 2008, appointed Artistic Director in 2017, and has directed the worldwide Audition Tour since 2021.

She is seen touring the country on faculty for Heat Convention & Competition’s National Tour, as well continuing her work as choreographer, director, and creative consultant designing high-level concepts for fashion, editorial, and live entertainment. Most recently, Bloomberg Philanthropies commissioned Angelica to choreograph by request of notable creative, Beth Crandall, for the grand opening of PAC/NYC, Perelman Performing Arts Center (next to the Freedom Tower).

This major press event of the “ribbon connecting” ceremony highlighted the students and alumni of the Joffrey Ballet School. Angelica choreographed and consulted (using Joffrey Ballet School Trainees), the opening spectacle for the runway show of Brazilian brand, PatBO (featured on Beyoncé), at New York Fashion Week in February 2024.

She continues to experiment with screen dance collaborating with NYC-based filmmakers to design dance for film and provide movement direction for the worlds of dance along with a vast array of artistic mediums. She is now pursuing her Master’s in Education Leadership at Harvard University, a part-time program specifically designed for professionals in education carrying full-time careers.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/angelicastiskin

https://www.facebook.com/AngelicaStiskin