Lead & Create

Neus Gil Cortes
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Lead & Create

Join Neus Gil Cortes, a seasoned dancer and choreographer with 34 years of experience, as she delves into the leadership issues and challenges faced by independent choreographers. In each episode, Neus shares valuable insights from her extensive career, emphasizing the importance of clear roles and responsibilities to create productive and collaborative environments. Through her own experiences and conversations with diverse guests, Neus aims to transform some toxic aspects of the dance culture by promoting positive, supportive leadership. Tune in for practical strategies and inspiring stories that will help overcome common challenges and foster better working environments for everyone in the dance community.

  1. OCT 11

    #15- A Chat With... Miguel Altunaga

    In this last episode of Season 1 of the Lead & Create process, host Neus Gil Cortes meets fellow choreographer and friend Miguel Altunaga to explore the intersection of art, self-awareness, and leadership in dance. Both Neus and Miguel share insights from their extensive experience in the industry, highlighting the importance of vulnerability, community, and personal growth in the creative process. Miguel discusses the challenges of understanding oneself as an artist while seeking deeper meaning in one's work. The conversation covers the significance of 'gym for thoughts,' where artists train their minds with the same dedication as their bodies, and the fluid dynamic of a creative room that fosters acceptance and allows dancers to express their authenticity. Neus and Miguel also touch on developing leadership that emphasizes respect, communication, and encouragement over authority, reshaping traditional norms within the dance community. Overall, the dialogue is a testament to the power of art as a form of self-expression and personal evolution. The episode concludes with a reflection on the joys of the artistic journey, advocating for a mindful approach that embraces the ever-changing process of creation.Resources:Online Leadership Course for Independent Choreographers 14 Oct-22 Nov More information and bookings here: leadandcreate.uk/coursebooking

    48 min

  2. OCT 5

    #14- A Chat With... Yukiko Masui

    Navigating Leadership in Dance: Insights with Yukiko MasuiIn this episode of the Lead and Create podcast, host Neus Gil Cortes, an experienced Spanish choreographer, discusses leadership in the dance industry with Yukiko Masui, a Tokyo-born choreographer based in London. Yukiko shares her journey in combining hip hop and contemporary dance, her experience with different leadership styles, and the importance of communication, empathy, and creating a balance between care and pushing physical limits in dance. The conversation also touches on the challenges of working in hierarchical and non-hierarchical environments, the intricacies of co-creating with another choreographer, and the impact of cultural backgrounds on leadership approach. Yukiko's experiences, including her time on the Equity Dance Committee and participating in the Clore Emerging Leadership Workshop, have shaped her leadership philosophy. The episode offers valuable insights into Yukiko's growth as a leader, the process of building meaningful relationships within the dance community, and the significance of self-awareness and intention in leadership roles.If you want to develop your leadership style be sure to book for our Online Leadership Course starting 14 October. Click here

    48 min

  3. SEP 27

    #13- A Chat With... Rhiannon Faith

    Exploring Radically Tender Dance Theatre with Rhiannon FaithIn this episode of the Lead and Create podcast, host Neus Gil Cortes, a seasoned Spanish choreographer and dramaturg, interviews the groundbreaking artist, Rhiannon Faith. The conversation highlights Rhiannon's unique approach to dance theatre, explaining some her recent projects, 'Lay Down Your Burdens' and 'The Care We See.' They delve into the concept of 'radically tender' art, discussing the importance of vulnerability, community, and care within the creative process. Rhiannon also shares insights on the parallel between motherhood and leadership, creating safe spaces for artist collaboration, and the essential support structures they use in the company, including having a therapist for cast, participants and audiences, but also the importance of the team and the collaboration with Maddy Morgan. The episode wraps up with Neus announcing her new online leadership course designed to empower choreographers in leadership roles.In this episode of the Lead and Create podcast, host Neus Gil Cortes, a seasoned Spanish choreographer and teacher, interviews the groundbreaking artist, Rhiannon Faith. The conversation highlights Rhiannon's unique approach to dance theater, focusing on her recent projects, 'Lay Down Your Burdens' and 'The Care We See.' They delve into the concept of 'radically tender' art, discussing the importance of vulnerability, community, and care within the creative process. Rhiannon also shares insights on the parallel between motherhood and leadership, creating safe spaces for artist collaboration, and the essential support structures they use in the company, including having a therapist for cast, participants and audiences, but also the importance of the team and the support of Maddy Morgan. The episode wraps up with Neus announcing her new online leadership course designed to empower choreographers in leadership roles.00:00 Introduction to the Lead and Create Podcast00:55 Meet Rhiannon Faith: A Boundary-Breaking Artist01:57 Recent Projects and Creative Endeavors05:20 The Concept of Radically Tender Dance Theater11:58 Parallels between Motherhood and Leadership20:47 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerable Topics31:25 The Importance of Collaboration and Support47:27 Conclusion and Upcoming Leadership CourseLinks:Rhiannon Faith companyBookings are open for our online leadership course!

    51 min

  4. SEP 19

    #12- A Chat With... Reece McMahon and So'l Jelenke

    Reimagining Leadership with Reece McMahon and So'l JelenkeWelcome to another episode of Lead and Create, where we delve into the transformative practices reshaping leadership in the arts. I’m thrilled to be joined by two trailblazers in the dance community: Reece McMahon and So'l Jelenke.In this episode, Reece and So'l share their journey through a groundbreaking transformation at Chisenhale Dance Space, an iconic venue in East London. Reece, who became the executive director in 2022, and So'l, a vibrant member of Chisenhale's newly established Artist Committee, discuss how Chisenhale has flipped traditional leadership models on their head to empower its artists in unprecedented ways.Reece provides insight into the evolution of Chisenhale from a member-led organisation to a new artist-centred governance model. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of reintegrating a more inclusive and equitable approach, emphasising how the shift aligns with Chisenhale's 40-year legacy of supporting marginalised voices in the arts.So'l, who joined Chisenhale post-transformation, offers a unique perspective on what it’s like to be part of this revolutionary change. She talks about her motivations for joining, the importance of community, and how Chisenhale’s commitment to anti-racism and inclusivity resonates with her personal values.We dive deep into their experiences and explore how past leadership roles have influenced their current practices. This episode promises an engaging discussion on leadership, inclusivity, and the future of artist-led initiatives.Before we dive in, don’t forget to check out our upcoming six-week online leadership course, designed to help independent choreographers build strong foundations for successful collaborations and personal growth--Book here or Sign up for our newsletter to keep in touch with other activities we do.Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Reece McMahon and So'l Jelenke as they share their experiences and insights into redefining leadership in the arts.

    42 min

  5. SEP 15

    #11-Things I'd say to Choreographers Just Starting Out

    In this episode of Lead & Create, Neus Gil Cortes takes you through some key insights into navigating relationships as an independent choreographer. She shares a personal story about a chance encounter with Eva Martinez at the Welsh Dance Platform Festival, reflecting on how to approach relationships with programmers and overcome imposter syndrome. Neus also explores the importance of collaboration, highlighting how critical it is to choose the right people for your projects, establish clear expectations, and set up professional boundaries—especially when working with friends. Drawing from her experience teaching at the National Center for Circus Arts, she emphasizes the value of stepping into new creative environments and the learning that comes from teaching and mentoring.Additionally, Neus offers practical advice on how to explain your work clearly and avoid jargon, how to find mentors by shadowing emerging artists, and why building a community among choreographers is so important. To support you on your journey, she shares tips on contracts, communication, and leadership in creative spaces.If you're looking to elevate your practice, refine your collaborations, and be part of a supportive community of creators, this episode is packed with essential guidance. Plus, Neus introduces her new WhatsApp group for choreographers, offering a safe space to ask questions and share experiences.Tune in and get ready to deepen your understanding of what it means to lead and create as a choreographer!Resources:- Subscribe to our mailing list here to know when bookings for our online leadership course open.- Get your guide to never miss a step in choosing your collaborators! Download it here- This is the spreadsheet I've created with residencies me and other choreographers from the WhatsApp group would recommend, there are many more of course! I will keep updating it with new ones as I find others. View here- If you want to be added to the choreographers' questions WhatsApp group email me at leadandcreate@gmail.com

    30 min

  6. SEP 3

    #10- How To Embed Access As A Creative Practice

    Ever wondered how to genuinely embed accessibility into your creative practice without it feeling like an afterthought? Are you striving to create meaningful work for communities with specific access needs and looking for innovative ways to enrich their experience?In this episode, we share our journey of incorporating accessibility for deaf audiences into the creative process of NOISE—a project three years in the making. From two rounds of R&D to an interactive BBC film and a live immersive performance, we discuss how we continuously evolved our approach by listening to artists, consultants, audiences, and venues. Tune in for insights, challenges, and practical ideas on making access a core part of your creative work.In this episode, you’ll get insights about:- How to make accessibility an integral part of your creative process from the beginning- Practical ideas for working with communities with specific access needs- The importance of listening to artists, consultants, and audiencesResources:Towards the end of the episode I talk about a video that Stopgap has created to explain best seating for different access needs that you can find hereFor Access Riders and general access information, check Unlimited's website hereTo know more about the Pastoral Care Offer check Grace's website hereSign up to our newsletter here to be the first to know when our leadership course launches.

    34 min

  7. AUG 22

    #9- Dear Choreographer: It is going to hurt (sometimes)

    In this episode of the "Lead & Create" podcast, we explore the emotional challenges that come with being a choreographer and artist, especially when facing criticism, rejection, and self-doubt. Drawing insights from articles, books and conversations with other artists, we discuss how to navigate the sting of negative feedback, protect your art, and build resilience. Tune in for practical tips to understand and manage those strong emotions, like choosing whose feedback to value, and maintaining a strong connection to your artistry. Whether you're a choreographer, artist, or creative leader, this episode offers valuable advice on staying strong in your creative journey.Links:Sign up to our newsletter hereSusie Moore article on Business Insider here

    24 min

  8. AUG 13

    #8- A chat with... Becky Naumgauds

    Join Neus Gil Cortes in an insightful conversation with choreographer Becky Naumgauds. Becky shares her experiences and challenges in the dance industry, touching on themes of feminist activism, leadership, and the importance of consent. They delve into the nuances of leading diverse dance groups, learning from past leadership styles, and the personal growth that comes from embracing mistakes. A must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, activism, and leadership.00:00 Introduction to the Lead and Create Podcast00:55 Meet Becky Namgouds: Multidisciplinary Artist02:50 Activism in Art: Becky's Perspective06:38 Challenging Leadership Experiences13:05 Navigating Consent and Autonomy in Dance17:14 The Importance of Support and Self-Care21:08 Lessons from Rodadoras: A Choreographic Journey30:32 East Wall Production: A Learning Experience37:25 Reflections on Leadership and Teaching40:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    42 min
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About

Join Neus Gil Cortes, a seasoned dancer and choreographer with 34 years of experience, as she delves into the leadership issues and challenges faced by independent choreographers. In each episode, Neus shares valuable insights from her extensive career, emphasizing the importance of clear roles and responsibilities to create productive and collaborative environments. Through her own experiences and conversations with diverse guests, Neus aims to transform some toxic aspects of the dance culture by promoting positive, supportive leadership. Tune in for practical strategies and inspiring stories that will help overcome common challenges and foster better working environments for everyone in the dance community.

Information

  • Creator
    Neus Gil Cortes
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Lead & Create

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