The Acrobatic Arts Podcast

Acrobatic Arts Inc
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The Acrobatic Arts Podcast

Welcome to the Acrobatic Arts Podcast! Join our host, Loren Dermody, as she interviews some of the top leaders and innovators from the dance and acrobatic industry. Acrobatic Arts is passionate about providing current and relevant information for everyone. If you are interested in hearing open and honest conversations with professionals from all over the world, then you are sure to find these episodes intriguing and full of inspiration!

  1. APR 9

    Ep. 107 Acro Chat: Coaching, Creativity, & Connection with Drew Burgess

    Don't miss this exciting episode with Drew Burgess! From his world-class expertise to his knack for solving tough challenges, Drew shares how Acro Chat is revolutionizing support for dance teachers and studio owners. Whether you're looking for inspiration, guidance, or just a little TLC, this is the episode you need to hear! About Drew Burgess Ohio native, Drew made his industry debut on Live with Regis during Amazing Kids Week. Upon relocating to California, he trained at L.A.'s best studios including EDGE, Millennium, Fusion, and the PAC Annex. Drew is highly sought after as a performer, choreographer, guest teacher, dance supervisor, & dance captain. Drew can be seen on teaching & adjudication panels for: Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, Dance Teachers Club of Boston, Headliners, DanZa, 10+ Dance Masters of America Regional Chapters, Dance Educators of America, & the Rhee Gold Company. A former competitor himself, Drew's regional titles include Master, Junior, and Teen Mr. Dance of Ohio, as well as, Mr. Dance of the Pacific Coast. Nationally, Drew is a former Jr. Mr. Dance of America and Mr. Dance of America. Drew is certified by test to teach through DMA & DEA in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, & Acrobatics and is an active member in both organizations. Drew is also proud to be Acrobatic Arts Certified (M1-M3) & part of their U.S. Division Staff of Course Conductors & Examiners.Drew's passion for dance circles the globe with guest workshop classes, technique clinics, & choreography, year-round. His corporate & live entertainment credits include performances with the Radio City Rockettes, Taylor Swift, & The Baha Men. Drew's students have accolades including: Teen Miss Dance of Arizona, Male Dancer of the Year, Miss Dance of Ohio, & Mr. Dance of America. His National Choreography merits include the Sherry Gold Memorial Choreography Award from DMA & Best Small Group & Production from NexStar. Drew has toured worldwide with Rasta Thomas' Bad Boys of Dance as a Swing in Rock the Ballet 2 and Romeo & Juliet. He was honored to serve as the Tap Director for four years at Spisak Dance Academy in Glendale, Arizona; and now resides in Columbus, Ohio and is part of of the teaching staff at Straub Dance Center. Find out more about Acro Chat with Drew Burgess: https://www.acrobaticarts.com/training-courses/acrochat-with-drew-burgessFollow Drew on Instagram: @drewdances If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

    18 min

  2. MAR 26

    Ep. 106 Advanced Acro: Tumbling Unlocked with Sandra Elliott & Vicki Fletcher

    Acrobatic Arts company Principal Sandra Elliott and Master Teacher Vicki Fletcher unveil Acrobatic Arts' new Advanced Acro Teacher Certifications: Aerial & Back Handspring, plus Back Tuck & Back Layout. Discover how these courses can improve your teaching by focusing on high-level spotting techniques and skill mastery. Learn to identify and correct common errors and build yours and your dancer's confidence in these skills. Don't miss out! Tune in now! About Sandra Elliott With over 30 years teaching experience, Sandra has also been enjoying her role as a course conductor and examiner with Acrobatic Arts since its inception in 2012. She assisted in developing the Module 1 Teacher's Certification Course. In addition, she developed the Graduate Student Teacher's Certification course, the Adjudicator Certification for AcroDancecourse and the Pin Examiner Certification course. Sandra is a registered teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance and has her Bachelor of Education Degree, with a major in dance. Throughout her teaching career, she has successfully prepared students for all levels of RAD exams. One of her students achieved her Royal Academy of Dance Solo Seal while another student participated in the RAD's Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition (formerly ‘The Genee') who later became a member of the Citie Ballet Company and is currently a member of Ballet Kelowna. Sandra has also been closely involved in the training of many students who have gone on to dance in professional shows including The Music Man (Broadway), Radio City Music Hall Rockettes, Movin' Out (Canadian Tour), Cirque Du Soleil (Las Vegas), So You Think You Can Dance Canada, Celine Dion and Taylor Swift. One of those students was the 2013 winner of UK's Got To Dance and a competitor in World of Dance Season 2. He is currently running his own contemporary company ‘Untitled' out of the UK. Sandra's choreography has won many overall, title and choreography awards. She is passionate about not only developing artistic dancers that have excellent technique but she also loves helping dancers to understand how the things they learn in dance can translate into their personal lives helping them to push themselves to be the best they can be. About Vicki Fletcher Vicki Fletcher was born and currently lives in Ontario Canada and has been dancing since the age of 2. She soon realized that her love for all forms of dance was something she wanted to share with others through teaching. She began teaching at the age of 17 and has been doing it ever since. Vicki brings 25 years of teaching experience in jazz,tap,acro,lyrical, stretch and conditioning and musical theatre. Vicki graduated from Dance Masters of America's Teacher's Training School at Kent State University and the University of New York in Buffalo and is also certified through the Ontario's Gymnastics Federation. Vicki has adjudicated dance competitions and has taught workshops at many studios in Canada. She feels it is very important to stay current with your training so attends workshops and conventions whenever she can. She has won many awards for her creative and innovative choreography and her students have won numerous awards,scholarships and titles. Many have gone on to pursue their own careers in dance whether it be performing in companies or on cruise ships, studying dance in University and becoming teachers themselves. Through her years of teaching Vicki has become more and more passionate towards the acro aspect of dance and has had great success in building a strong acro studio. This love for acro and the desire to see it done safely by teachers and students is what makes being a part of Acrobatic Arts so exciting for her. She is looking forward to working with students and teachers from all over the world who share her passion for acro. If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

    22 min

  3. MAR 12

    Ep. 105 AcroDance Insurance 101 with Joanne Klenk

    Protect your passion and safeguard your business! Join Loren Dermody and Joanne Klenk, National Dance Insurance Program Director at Promark Partners Insurance Services, as they dive into the world of dance studio insurance. Discover tailored coverage for AcroDance and Aerial Arts, learn how to minimize risk, and get answers to your most pressing insurance questions. Don't miss this essential episode for dance studio owners and teachers! Need some visuals? Check out Joanne's Weekly Mini presentation, Insurance for Acro & Aerial Arts with Joanne Klenk, on YouTube! Reach Joanne Joanne Klenk, CPCUDance Insurance USA | Promark Partners Insurance ServicesNational Dance Insurance Program Directorjklenk@promarkinsurance.comPh: 716-633-8401danceinsuranceusa.comIG: @danceinsuranceusa If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

    9 min

  4. FEB 26

    Ep. 104 Acro Exam Ready: Examiner's Top Tips (3-5) with Sandra Elliott

    Exam season stressing you out? Acrobatic Arts Principal Sandra Elliott is here to help! This week on the Acrobatic Arts Podcast, Sandra shares her examiner insights on mastering Levels 3-5. Discover the most common corrections, flexibility secrets, and strength-building hacks for bridges, handstands, and more. AND...find out how your studio could WIN a FREE mock exam consultation with Sandra herself! Don't miss this chance to get your students exam-ready! About Sandra Elliott With over 30 years teaching experience, Sandra has also been enjoying her role as a course conductor and examiner with Acrobatic Arts since its inception in 2012. She assisted in developing the Module 1 Teacher's Certification Course. In addition, she developed the Graduate Student Teacher's Certification course, the Adjudicator Certification for AcroDancecourse and the Pin Examiner Certification course. Sandra is a registered teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance and has her Bachelor of Education Degree, with a major in dance. Throughout her teaching career, she has successfully prepared students for all levels of RAD exams. One of her students achieved her Royal Academy of Dance Solo Seal while another student participated in the RAD's Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition (formerly ‘The Genee') who later became a member of the Citie Ballet Company and is currently a member of Ballet Kelowna. Sandra has also been closely involved in the training of many students who have gone on to dance in professional shows including The Music Man (Broadway), Radio City Music Hall Rockettes, Movin' Out (Canadian Tour), Cirque Du Soleil (Las Vegas), So You Think You Can Dance Canada, Celine Dion and Taylor Swift. One of those students was the 2013 winner of UK's Got To Dance and a competitor in World of Dance Season 2. He is currently running his own contemporary company ‘Untitled' out of the UK. Sandra's choreography has won many overall, title and choreography awards. She is passionate about not only developing artistic dancers that have excellent technique but she also loves helping dancers to understand how the things they learn in dance can translate into their personal lives helping them to push themselves to be the best they can be. If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

    21 min

  5. FEB 12

    Ep. 103 Thoracic Mobility: The Key to a Flexible Spine with Sarah Reis

    Join host Loren Dermody and special guest Sarah Reis on the latest episode for a deep dive into thoracic mobility and spine articulation. Sarah breaks down the key anatomy behind common bridge issues and how to improve your technique with targeted exercises. From unlocking tight hip flexors to understanding the fascial system, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help your dancers. Don't miss out—this bite-size anatomy lesson is one you'll want to add to your teaching toolbox. Tune in NOW for expert insights and practical strategies. About Sarah Reis In her early development Sarah split her time between gymnastics and dance then later got into circus work and competitive rock climbing. The combination of these skills led her to a performance career as a stunt double in the thriving Vancouver film scene. While enjoying a professional performance career she worked on various projects including cruiseship contracts, print, television, film and nightlife productions. Sarah has always felt it was important to continue her education and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology in 2006. After graduation Sarah started work as an artistic sport rehabilitation specialist in a Physiotherapy clinic during the day while teaching dance in the evening. At the clinic Sarah primarily designed return to training programs for injured artistic athletes.Sarah is a certified teacher in acrobatics through the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA) and is a level three coach in women's artistic gymnastics with the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). Sarah holds longstanding certificates with many established dance teacher, Pilates and fitness related organizations. Sarah eventually returned to school to study contemporary dance at Simon Fraser University and completed a second degree in Education. Sarah spent some time working in the school district, holding an official teaching license with the BC ministry of Education in the specialty of performing arts and physical education. In 2008 she completed her Master's degree in Human Performance Coaching Sciences from the University of Victoria where she researched in the field of athletic motor development and later developed the curriculum for the International Dance Teaching Standards teacher education program for developing dance educators. Sarah began her doctorate research in Leadership Education but has since switched her focus to Dance Medicine. Within her research Sarah is interested in AcroDance teaching methodology and recently presented at the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science. When not touring as a public speaker, Sarah is the director of a large dance competition and manages a physiotherapy clinic among other small businesses. Sarah has spent the last decade touring worldwide presenting at various universities, dance conventions and conferences and can also be seen live from Los Angeles with CLI Studios. With a strong creative pull Sarah has been choreographing AcroDance lines and productions for more than twenty years and continues to be passionate about student development when she is home and able to teach in her hometown. Module three certified, Sarah is an examiner and course conductor here at Acrobatic Arts. www.danceteachingstandards.com Listen to Sarah's previous episodes: Ep. 12 Tips for Cartwheel Rebounds and Roundoff - Sarah Calvert Ep. 42 Mats for AcroDance Training with Sarah Reis Ep. 53 Life Lessons in Dance with Sarah Reis Ep. 54 Life Lessons in Dance with Sarah Reis, Pt 2 Ep. 98 Balancing Competition and Education in Dance with Sarah Reis If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

    15 min

  6. JAN 29

    Ep. 102 Dance Convention Revolution with Derek Piquette

    Dive into the explosive world of dance with Loren Dermody and Derek Piquette as they unpack the groundbreaking Prodigy Dance Convention and the rising importance of acro in performance. From viral University of Minnesota routines to insights from UDA Nationals, this episode reveals why dance teams are transforming the performing arts landscape. Get the inside scoop on the upcoming Accelerate Acro Convention and discover how acro skills are revolutionizing dance, commercials, and professional performances. Tune in for an electrifying journey through the future of movement! About Derek Piquette Derek Piquette, a multifaceted artist from Chicopee, MA, began his dance journey at 10. A principal dancer in Carmen and The Maid, he gained recognition on Season 12 of So You Think You Can Dance, finishing top 4 and touring. Derek founded Intrepid Dance Company in 2017, directing and choreographing its debut, "HER." Starring as the "Trickster" in Cirque Du Soleil's KOOZA, Derek also reached the finals on NBC's World Of Dance Season 3. As a teacher and choreographer, Derek contributed to renowned organizations like CLI Studios and judged competitions. Choreographing 350+ award-winning pieces since 2014, he left a mark on Dance Moms, Disney Channel's Backstage, and So You Think You Can Dance. Derek's passion extends to mentoring young dancers globally, leaving a lasting impact through his exceptional teaching approach and inspiring them to excel in dance. Follow Derek on IG: https://www.instagram.com/derekpiquette/ Prodigy Dance Convention: https://www.prodigydanceconvention.com/ Accelerate Acro Convention: https://accelerateacroconvention.com/ If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

    27 min

  7. JAN 15

    Ep. 101 Flipping Forward: Acrobatic Arts in 2025 with Mandy Yip

    This is THE podcast episode you can't miss! Acrobatic Arts Founder Mandy Yip is dropping game-changing insights that will transform how you approach AcroDance education in 2025. From explosive industry trends to insider strategies that could skyrocket your career, this conversation is packed with must-know information. Want to stay ahead of the curve and unlock opportunities others are missing? Tune in now and get ready to level up your acro game! Mandy Yip, Acrobatic Arts Founder With over 350,000 dancers participating in Acrobatic Arts classes every week, Mandy Yip manages the delivery of training programs and the Acrobatic Arts syllabus in over 65hundred dance studios around the world. She also created the most comprehensive and researched Acrobatic Arts Curriculum, as well as innovative apps such as the AcroDance Resource Center. Mandy is a highly sought-after industry expert, known for her engaging workshops and clinics across North America, Europe, and Australia. Prodigy Dance Convention: https://www.prodigydanceconvention.com/ Accelerate Acro Convention: https://accelerateacroconvention.com/ If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com Acrobatic Arts: https://www.acrobaticarts.com

    23 min

  8. 2024-12-04

    Ep. 100 Top Episodes of 2024

    The finale episode of this year's The Acrobatic Arts Podcast features memorable moments from the 2024 line-up. Top take-a-ways in a countdown of the best include clips from Derek Piquette, Karen Ritchie, Dr. Linda Bluestein, Drew Burgess, and Dr. Leisha Strachan. Thank you to our listeners, and a huge thank you to ALL our amazing guests this past year! Feel free to also send us your ideas for the topics and innovators from the dance and acro industry that will entertain, inspire, and take your teaching to the next level in 2025: Admin@acrobaticArts.com Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/ If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now! Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

    19 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Acrobatic Arts Podcast! Join our host, Loren Dermody, as she interviews some of the top leaders and innovators from the dance and acrobatic industry. Acrobatic Arts is passionate about providing current and relevant information for everyone. If you are interested in hearing open and honest conversations with professionals from all over the world, then you are sure to find these episodes intriguing and full of inspiration!

Information

  • Creator
    Acrobatic Arts Inc
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    106
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 by Acrobatic Arts Inc
  • Show Website
    The Acrobatic Arts Podcast

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