What does it take to become a choreographer on Broadway? Jennifer talks to Director-Choreographer, Katie Spelman, who shares the complex and often nonlinear trajectory of the choreography world that led to her Broadway choreographic debut for The Notebook (which unfortunately closes December 15th). Katie breaks down the distinct roles and positions in the choreography world – from dance captain to assistant to associate – offering clarity on how each supports a production. Katie divulges some of her favorite tools, expresses how creating imperfect work regularly can unlock creativity, and highlights the collaboration and trust required to build and sustain productions. Together, they also discuss the systemic challenges in the industry, including gender disparities in creative leadership, the need for diverse representation on and off stage, and Katie’s personal commitment to uplifting others in the industry. Listeners will gain tangible insights into the importance of finding collaborators, embracing imperfection, and choreographing for the bodies and performers you have in a room. Whether you’re a dancer, choreographer, or simply curious about the artistry of storytelling through movement, this episode offers a rich exploration of creativity, resilience, and the power of community.
About Katie: Katie Spelman (she/her) is a Chicago-born, Brooklyn-based director and choreographer. She made her Broadway choreographic debut this past season with The Notebook. Recent credits include Great Comet (Writers Theatre), The Music Man (Marriott Theatre, 8 Jeff Nominations), Cabaret (Barrington Stage Company, Berkie Award for Best Choreography); the world premiere of An American Tail (CTC); Hello Kitty Must Die (Edinburgh Fringe), Day 365 - Live from the Rainbow Room with Dylan Mulvaney, Once (Writers Theatre), Swearing in English (Ars Nova), aren’t you glad you stayed in (TEAM Petri Project), AD 16 (Olney Theater, Helen Hayes Award for Best Choreography), The Beautiful Game (Tokyo, TOHO Productions), The Who’s Tommy (DCPA), and Oklahoma! (Goodspeed). She was the Associate Choreographer on Moulin Rouge for the Boston, Broadway, and Australian companies, as well as an associate on the Broadway productions of Amelie, American Psycho, and Once; she was the Associate Choreographer on RENT Live! on Fox, and the Associate Director for Close To You on the West End. Katie has also collaborated with Lookingglass, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Camerata Bern, Court Theatre, The Hypocrites, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Timeline Theatre, and Northwestern University. Katie was the Associate Choreographer on Moulin Rouge for the Boston, Broadway, and Australian companies; an associate on the Broadway productions of Amelie, American Psycho, and Once; and was the recipient of the SDCF Agnes DeMille.
Katie’s IG: @k8spelman
Katie’s Website: www.katiespelman.com
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