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MARK MEISMER
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Mark Meismer
Renowned Dancer - Stage, Television & Film
Mark's credits span from Mia Michaels' innovative company, R.A.W to countless film and television appearances including Austin Powers II, Will and Grace, Mad About You and the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has danced at the MTV Music Awards and the VH1 Fashion Awards. He has toured with Reba McEntire and Ricky Martin, and has performed in countless commercial and industrial projects. Mark is also the found and Artistic Director of Evolution Dance Company in LA. We got on the phone with him to discuss his amazing career, his biggest influences, and his advice for you.
 | | Mark and Reba |
Getting started in the business….
In the 6th grade, Mark went to watch a friend’s dance recital. Noticing that there were boys dancing in the show he told his parents that he wanted to do the same. Just like that, the free spirited dancing that Mark had always done around the house was given structure and a technique that has served to make him one of the most sought after dancer/teachers in the US today. On his mother’s suggestion, Mark auditioned for the Orange County High School of the Arts and was accepted with very little formal training under his belt. With 4 years at the School of the Arts however he had time to really focus on his training and on becoming a strong and versatile dancer.
Mark’s most rewarding theatre experience….
With over 15 years of performance experience Mark truly sees the value and the blessing that every job has been for him but when asked to single out one job in particular he has a quick and clear answer. His work with Mia Michaels and her company R.A.W (Reality At Work). “Mia took me to another place as a dancer…she took me to a place where I didn’t even know I was capable of going.” Mark performed with R.A.W in New York City, Japan, Korea, Amsterdam and at the Jazz Dance World Congress in Chicago. “Artistically…” he says, “there is nothing like concert dance. You push yourself to your limits as an artist.”
Mark speaks enthusiastically about his work in television and film and also about the amazing feeling of dancing behind artists like Ricky Martin and Reba McEntire to the roar of screaming fans. “I wouldn’t trade it for the world!” he says. He’s also thankful for his work as Mia Michaels’ assistant on Celine Dion’s show in Las Vegas (A New Day) and for the benefits of being on the flip side of the creative process. It is when Mark speaks about his company work however that he becomes most passionate. Working in a company is about “being vulnerable and being an artist” and it’s with Mia Michaels (who he credits as the most influential person in his career) that Mark finds that fulfillment.
| Q: | With a career ranging from company work to T.V, film and concerts, what does Mark credit for his versatility in the industry? | | A: | “Technique is the base of all dance.” Says Mark. “It gives you a different level of confidence and allows a choreographer to mold you.” Those who have seen Mark dance will know that he is a technician few can rival and that technique, matched with an undeniable passion and the ability to adapt to whatever style a choreographer asks of him, make Mark one of the most “cast-able” dancers working today. |
….But with all his success, has Mark ever had an embarrassing audition
He certainly has! Like the nightmare where you’re sent onstage without knowing the choreography, Mark found himself at an important audition for choreographer, Marguerite Derricks and when it was his turn to dance… “I was like a deer in headlights” he laughs. Front and center for the combination, Mark completely blanked, “I was horrified…I wanted to walk right out of the room.” Luckily he knew the choreographer and had a chance to redeem himself. “You’ve just got to keep everything in perspective” he says. Knowing that it’s ok to laugh at yourself is always important. We all make mistakes…even the pros!
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| Q: | So what advice does Mark have for dancers trying to break into the industry? | | A: | “Stay in class. Take classes that you’re not comfortable with.” He suggests. “It’s the best way to prepare yourself for auditioning.” There is always a risk of becoming comfortable with one style so it’s extremely important to be open and adaptable if you want to work in the business. You need to let go of your habits and dance the way the choreographer wants you to dance. They’re not interested in your personal style; they want to see if you can blend with the group. It’s rarely about being a soloist in this business. “There’s no time to train on the job” Mark stresses, “you’ve got to show them you can do it at the audition. Take notes and take corrections!” Remember that you are auditioning for or taking class from someone with a style all their own so be respectful and do your best to adapt to what they’re looking for. If you’ve got a distinctive style that you just can’t shake then Mark has a great idea for you… “Those dancers should think about becoming choreographers themselves.” |
| Q: | What’s the most important piece of advice that Mark would like to pass on to dancers? | | A: | “Be humble” (with your gift) he says. “There are so many amazing dancers in this business with so many different talents.” There is no point comparing yourself to others. You just have to be thankful for your own gifts and learn how to take full advantage of your talents. |
I find this to be Mark’s most touching and heartfelt advice to fellow dancers. It’s wonderful to encounter such a talented and giving artist who is without a hint of ego. Mark’s passion and spirit are inspiring and are clearly evident when he dances. Check out his website for upcoming events where you might be lucky enough to catch him onstage. www.markmeismer.com
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