Ep. 102- Calen Kurka
Questions asked in this episode:
What has it been within this profession that continually inspires and engages you to dive deeper? (1:42)
So when we're talking contemporary mechanics, what does that mean? (7:15)
Can you create open and authentic dancers if you are not open and authentic? (8:44)
Is there anything that you can offer dance teachers or people listening that could support them in this exploration of presence and curiosity of artistry? (15:44)
Raised in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada, Calen Kurka started his training in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Musical Theatre, Modern, and Chinese Dance. He then later moved to Edmonton, Alberta, furthering his training competitively.
As an instructor Calen has taught across Canada, the U.S. and Japan, and more recently in Ireland at Dublin's Dance Jam '07. He is currently instructing for Dance Masters of America as one of their Master Faculty, and is also on faculty with Dance Educators of America. His choreography has been recognized as outstanding at many competitions throughout the U.S. and Canada, and has been the recipient of many awards. In addition to teaching in and around New York he's also assistant to choreographer, director, instructor, Michele Assaf.
Calen's performing credits include being an original member of the first national tour of Jeff Amsden's widely acclaimed A Few Good Men Dancin', and performing with recording artist Carmella in a tribute concert to Cher. He's also worked closely with choreographer/instructor Chris Hale. As a featured performer, Calen's stage credits include having spent a year on contract with Tokyo Disney as a Main Stage performer, and taking on such leading roles as Capt. Von Trapp in The Sound of Music and Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors in regional stage productions. In addition he can be seen in The Live! at Broadway Dance Center video series Turns and Turn Combos, dancing with choreographer Danny Herman, and Floor Work with Calen Kurka and Chris Hale: A new addition to the "Live at BDC" collection.
As founder and Artistic Director of :pushing progress a company, Calen hopes to continue his journey as an artist, instructor and choreographer. He wishes to inspire, and be continually inspired by those who so honestly give of their talent and themselves. He continues, with his company, to create work pushing new movement, strong technique, honesty, emotional commitment, and growth. It is an evolutionary journey with no boundaries, no limits, no ends.
