Research Symposium

BIO

Jasmine Burelsmith is from the greater-Houston area and has danced since the age of three. She is currently pursuing her BFA in Dance and minoring in Art History and General Business. Beyond that, she is involved on campus as a member of the College of Fine Arts Leadership Council, Community Arts Initiative, Phi Eta Sigma, and hopes to be inducted into the Hispanic Honor Society this semester. Outside of school, she performs with the Tallahassee Ballet as a company member and teaches youth ballet classes.

Behind the Table

Abstract

Musical theatre, specifically broadway dance, has emerged from a problematic past. Thus, this research questions what broadway dance is and how collaborators receive credit for their contributions. These concepts are explored creatively through a choreographic work that brings to light the frustrations of those in front of the table. Historically, white males have been the lead creatives, driving a theatrical production from behind the table. Therefore, this work illuminates the intricate relationships of those not in positions of power and infers the emotional and physical strain endured by dancers. Beyond that, choreography is often collaborative during the early creative process where each individual would and should normally receive credit for their
contribution throughout the process. This work brings forward what is incorrect with the ladder of theatre workshops. Within the production team and dancers, acknowledgment is crucial and necessary in order to further succeed in the industry. This concept rings true at every level of the production hierarchy.

Keywords: musical theatre, dance, minority representaion