In our three-part sequence, How to navigate your European audition tour, Dance Informa speaks with three American artists who’re dwelling the dream – dancing professionally in Europe. But how did they get there? How did they hear about auditions or community to be seen by firms? Where did they keep whereas embarking on their very own curated audition tour? How did they get their foot within the door overseas?
This version, we hear from Shannon Maynor, who danced a few years as a freelancer in NYC, and is now making a dwelling dancing, instructing and creating in Berlin, Germany.
Shannon Maynor – @shannon_maynor
Background
“I began my ballet coaching at 4 years outdated, and by age 10, I just about needed to do it on a regular basis. I moved to check at San Francisco Ballet School after I was 16. Getting to look at and dance with the most effective firms within the United States was an enormous step and supply of inspiration.
Freelancing in New York additionally gave me invaluable abilities and uncovered me to many alternative kinds and methods of working. I like that within the NYC dance scene, you may juggle so many alternative tasks –– something is feasible at any time. For me, although, I felt like I wanted a little bit of a slower tempo, to essentially relish within the course of. I reached a degree in New York the place I felt like I used to be on autopilot. I like performing, however I used to be focused on diving deeper into creating and being coached within the studio.
Moving to Berlin in 2019 completely rejuvenated me and my profession, and even via COVID, I’ve felt totally supported as an artist. Here, there’s time and sources to domesticate my work. I’m in my 30s and extra in love with dance and making artwork than I’ve ever been. My largest mistake was initially attempting to squeeze myself right into a field that didn’t match, which prompted me to get discouraged early on. To keep away from that, attempt to be actually clear about what you need (what kinds, freelance vs. salaried firm, what’s vital to you as a dancer, and so on.). While it’s vital to be open-minded, attempt to not drive your self into conditions that you realize aren’t aligned with what you want as an artist and human being.
Aside from all the on-line sources (danceeurope.web, dancingopportunities.com, and so on.), I recommend checking the social media accounts of particular firms or choreographers you’re focused on. Also, don’t be shy, particularly if you happen to’re new to a metropolis, to inform colleagues and lecturers that you just’re in search of alternatives. Even with the effectivity of the web, I discover that phrase of mouth remains to be one of the best ways. When I made a decision that I needed to maneuver to Europe, I advised mainly everybody I spoke to and ended up with invaluable recommendation and contacts.
My largest piece of recommendation is to not be shy! If you’re taking an organization class, ask questions and possibly see if you happen to can observe a rehearsal. Planning an audition tour may be costly and sophisticated, however when you have time and there’s a metropolis you’re focused on, attempt taking a category or workshop there. These are nice methods to fulfill much more dancers who can supply steering or sources.”
By Charly Santagado of Dance Informa.
