DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #55
TAIFA HARMONY BARTZ
Singer, Actress, Director
New York City
https://www.facebook.com/Taifa.Bartz
https://www.instagram.com/tai.harmony.bartz
https://twitter.com/taiharmony
https://www.linkedin.com/in/taifa-harmony-bartz-669248109
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW1FTtDPJ8ORCRvkuMFEDm0an2Fq4RR2L

In his 55th interview, David speaks with his cousin (long-time haven't seen cousin) artist Taifa Harmony Bartz, a singer, actress, producer - all around bella persona with good vibes and great energy! [Taifa: Did we chop it up or what?!]

Taifa is also the oldest daughter of American Jazz Saxophonist and World-Class Musician, Gary Bartz. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Bartz

Taifa is an artist in her own right and is doing her thing! (Yes, she can sing y'all and does it toward the end of the interview!)

David and Taifa talk about family, growing up, visits to the home of Aunt Pauline in Baltimore, DNA, creativity, setbacks and breakthroughs.

They also discuss music, the importance of rhythm and the power of healing through art.

They even touch on the subject of being black (or not being black enough) and colorism in the African American community.

David's note: I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did. You can find Taifa on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube!

DavidPFranceTV Interview #58
PATRICK BARNITT
Actor, Singer
Los Angeles, CA USA
https://www.patrickbarnitt.com

In his 58th interview, David catches up with Patrick Barnitt, an actor and singer who is based in Los Angeles, California. They talk about living and managing life during this global medical crisis; latest projects, musical influences and growing in New Jersey (shout out South Orange / Maplewood, NJ). They also both share a few of the "war stories" they experienced while making their way in the entertainment business.

We hope you enjoy.

Patrick Barnitt is an American singer, composer, producer, and actor.
He has performed and/or recorded with such jazz luminaries as Howlett Smith, Larry Gales, Wilfred Middlebrook, George Gaffney, Terence Blanchard, Laura Pursell, Paul McDonald, Stephan Oberhoff, Tamir Hendelman, Christoph Lutey, Everette Harp, Cesar Benitez, Maiya Sykes, Larry Koonse, Ron Eschete, Dean Koba, Dori Amarilio, Stephan Oberhoff, Celso Alberti, George Stone, Laura Dickinson, Kenna Ramsey, Christine Nelson, Meloney Collins, Duane Benjamin, Gary Ferguson, Bill Armstrong, Joel Scott, Rusty Higgins, Billy Paul, Kendall Kay, Robert Kyle, Tony Guerrero, John Rodby, Ron Anthony, Barry Zweig, Wayne Bergeron, Andy Martin, and Frank Devito, to name a few. He regularly performs at the famous Hollywood rat-pack lounge, The Dresden Room with the famed duo, Marty and Elayne Roberts, immortalized in the film, “Swingers”.

His debut record, "When The Time Is Right", was produced by legendary songwriter/pianist, Howlett Smith and featured the Tamir Hendelman trio. It was released in Asia in 2003 by Universal Records.

Patrick has been working as an actor for the last 25 years. He originated the role of the crooner the successful dance-musical, Shag With A Twist. His television and film credits include, Star Trek: First Contact, Star Trek: Voyager and Deep Space Nine, The Shield, Working, Eleventh Hour, Las Vegas, Beverly Hills 90210, In Enemy Hands, Cross Wars and he most recently appeared in The Lost Day with Danny Trejo and Billy Baldwin. He starred in the crime-thriller, Coffin with Bruce Davison and Kevin Sorbo and in the sequel, Coffin 2 (both of which are now available on Amazon Prime). He also served as associate producer on Coffin-2. He starred in the sci-fi thriller, festival winning short, Axiom. Patrick regards working with Dennis Hopper, Bruce Davison, Jonathan Frakes, and David Fincher as some of the highlights of his career.

DavidPFranceTV Interview #57
KARA YOUNG - Supermodel, Entrepreneur
Business Owner, "Hair Rules"
New York City
https://hairrules.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kara_Young

In his 57th Interview, David speaks with Kara Young, an American Model, Actress and Entrepreneur based in New York City.

David found Kara while researching black women and their hair care as a topic for a future interview. It was then, he discovered that Kara and business partner Anthony Dickey had launched "Hair Rules", a New York City salon and hair care product label.

Kara developed in the late 80s/early 90s era of the "Supermodel"; her peers are Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Veronica Webb, Stephanie Seymour, Karen Alexander, Claudia Schiffer, the list goes on.

Kara has graced the covers of Vogue, Glamour and Elle Magazine to name a few; she is well known for her association with Victoria's Secret, with Revlon's "Most Unforgettable Women" 1990s advertising campaign and Playboy Magazine. She has worked with the best photographers in the fashion business including Richard Avedon, Steven Meisel, Patrick Demarchelier, Gilles Bensimon, Peter Lindbergh, Albert Watson, Sante D'Orazio and Herb Ritts.

In this interview, Kara reveals her background growing up biracial in the San Francisco area in the late 70s/early 80s; her early days as a model in Los Angeles; her experience working in Europe and Japan; and her eventual move to New York City where she now resides with her husband and two children.

A few of the highlights: Kara speaks of her family, the influence of her mother and her sisters, the relationship with her father and his family; former President Donald Trump (whom she dated in the late 90s); and her philosophy about work, beauty, haircare and selfcare.

[David's note: I love the fact that Kara is open and shares her willingness to experience new situations and challenges; she has a definitive way of speaking and thinking about herself in relation to subject matters both inside and outside the world of modeling.

Basically, this was a conversation about personal development.

My apologies for the photo slide show not working. Kara and I managed this interview through technology difficulties, but we kept it MOVING... I hope you enjoy! Be safe out there! And thank you Kara!]

#supermodel #model #entrepreneur #biracial #vogue #victoriassecret

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #56
DUCHESS HARRIS, PhD, JD
Professor of American Studies and Political Science
Author, The Duchess Harris Collection
St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
https://www.duchessharris.com

In his 56th interview, David speaks with long-time colleague Duchess Harris, a professor of American Studies at Macalester College. Duchess is also an author of books for children under the banner of The Duchess Harris Collection, which features 115 books for students in grades 3-12 on topics such as race and policing, and #MeToo.

In this interview, Duchess recounts pivotal moments as a student government leader at the University of Pennsylvania, what influenced her to blaze a trail in the world of academia as a young professor, her family, background and upbringing and current life as a working professional, wife and mother.

David and Duchess tackle topics of race, gender, class and discrimination specifically the legal rights of black women in the workplace, the politics of hair, growing up in the 1980s, the impact of slavery in the "modern" world and the legacy and impact of this story on their generation (Generation X) and following generations.

David's Note: One of the best conversations, I have had in a long time! Duchess is a powerhouse! Get ready to take notes!

Bio:

Professor Harris was a Mellon Mays Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania. She graduated in 1991 with a degree in American History. Six years later, she earned a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Minnesota. She did postdoctoral fellowships at the Institute on Race and Poverty at the University of Minnesota Law School and at the Womanist Studies Consortium at the University of Georgia.

​In 1998, Harris joined the faculty at Macalester College. She became the first Chair of the American Studies Department in 2003 and was granted tenure in 2004. In 2007 she decided that attending law school would allow her to expand the scope of her scholarship even further. In 2008, she was the only law student in the country chosen to be an Associate Editor for Litigation News, the American Bar Association Section’s quarterly flagship publication. In 2009, she won a $96,000 fellowship from the Bush Leadership Program, which encourages their recipients to create positive change in their communities. In 2010, she became the first Editor-in-Chief of Law Raza Journal, an interactive on-line race and the law journal.

She earned a Juris Doctorate in January 2011, and has an expertise in Civil Rights Law. In 2015, The Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers chose her to receive “The Profiles in Courage Award.” She is currently a member of Governor Tim Walz's Board of Public Defense.

She is also the proud curator of the Duchess Harris Collection, which has 115 books written for 4-12 graders. Macalester College President, Brian C. Rosenberg, interviewed her about her book on the #MeToo Movement.

Professor Harris is a scholar of Contemporary African American History and Political Theory. Her academic books include, Racially Writing the Republic: Racists, Race Rebels, and Transformations of American Identity, (2009), Black Feminist Politics from Kennedy to Clinton, (2009), Black Feminist Politics from Kennedy to Obama, (2011),Black Feminist Politics from Kennedy to Trump, (2018) and "Black Girl Magic Beyond the Hashtag:
Twenty-First Century Acts of Self-Definition" (2019).

She resides in Vadnais Heights MN with her husband, Dr. Jon. V. Thomas, their three children, Austin, Avi, and Zach; a British Short Haired cat named Skittles, a stray cat named Tommie, and a Standard Poodle named Mocha.

DavidPFranceTV Interview #54
STEPHANIE VAN BURK
Artist, Designer, Model
Los Angeles, California USA
https://www.vanburkofficial.com​
https://www.patreon.com/stephvanburk
https://www.instagram.com/stephvanburk
https://www.youtube.com/stephanievanburk​

In his 54th interview, David speaks with artist, designer and model, Stephanie Van Burk from her apartment in Los Angeles.

Stephanie, who originally is from Geneva, Switzerland, has lived in Los Angeles for several years now. David and Stephanie first met during a photo shoot and have maintained communication over several years.

In this episode, Stephanie talks about her early career in modeling, how she was scouted, living in Montreal, New York City and Milan, Italy; restlessness and creativity, what eventually brought her to Los Angeles and her love for designing.

David and Stephanie also take a look at her modeling photographs, and she walks us through each one and presents the story behind the images.

Bio:

Stephanie Burkhalter is a fashion designer and activist empowering humans through fashion and art.

She is born and raised in Geneva, Switzerland with a passion for art and design. After working as a former model, she graduated from the Marangoni Institute in Milan as a fashion designer.

​Her Brand Van Burk is a mix of European and American energy for a striking rock and roll style.

​As she has always been a heart of a rebel, she started up a movement, "Free Your Fear", in order to help people to express themselves through art.

Creating expression through art with a focus on fashion can help overcoming their fear.

It helps release emotions; builds self confidence, self love and acceptance, and open the door to creative opportunities.

Society doesn't define you.

YOU define YOU

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #53
VALERIE BARNES
Valerie Barnes Film
New York City
www.valeriebarnesfilm.com

TRUMP AND THE U.S. PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION AFTERMATH

David speaks with Valerie about President Trump, the election results and what occurred on the 6th of January at the U.S. Capitol Building.

The conversation is lengthy, however, we try to cover it all and from more than one angle. We welcome your comments.

From Valerie's website:

Every person has a story.

​Whether the story unfolds through an art film, documentary, music film or a wedding film matters not. What matters is the ability for the filmmaker to interpret each story and present it in an emotionally engaging manner.
__________________________

I've always been enriched by the knowledge learned from the diversity in the projects I've created and in the people I've met along the way. These people have taught me that it is our differences which make us interesting and our similarities which unite us.

I have filmed people who celebrate in the joy of marriage, musicians who strive to be heard, performers who light up a stage or screen with their energy, those who struggle with intolerance and indifference against them, and many others who move forward in life trying to make their mark in whatever is their passion.

My work has taken me to places both nationally and internationally. I am mostly a referral based business which speaks to the trust and satisfaction others have felt when working with me.

Everybody has a story to tell and film and video are the vehicles I use to tell these stories.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #52
JOE OVELMAN
Contemporary Artist and Author
Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York City
https://www.joeovelman.com

In his 52nd interview, David speaks with Joe Ovelman, an artist living in the process of moving from Philadelphia to Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York City.

In this conversation, Joe discusses his development as an artist, his first job, his art, life as an artist in New York City, the launching of his trilogy book series and his take on the student loan situation in the United States and its impact on society.

Joe also introduces his latest venture, www.100pajamas.com, where he now lends his drawing skills as tee-shirt designs for babies and young children.

Bio:

Joe Ovelman is an American contemporary artist and author who works with video, photography, sculpture, installation art, performance art, artist's books, and drawing. His work has also featured in several New York City street murals. Ovelman currently lives and works in Philadelphia and New York City.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #51
GABRIELLE GLORE
Producer, "Sylvie's Love"
Festival Director and Head of Programming for Urbanworld (Film Festival)
Brooklyn, New York City

For his first interview of 2021, David welcomes Gabrielle Glore, one of the producers of the film "Sylvie's Love", the new Amazon Original release starring Tessa Thompson and Nnamdi Asomugha and directed by Eugene Ashe.

David also speaks with Gabrielle about their days as fellow undergraduates at the University of Pennsylvania; her career start at HBO; the various roles at Time Warner, BET and Viacom; her role as an independent producer and her ascent to the role of Festival Director and Head of Programming for Urbanworld (Film Festival).

"Sylvie's Love" also features unexpected performances by actors Eva Longoria ("Desperate Housewives") in a supporting, but important role to the story; Erica Gimple (you may remember her from the "Fame" television series) and MC Lyte (yes, that's right! MC Lyte - the rap and hip-hop artist of New York City early 80s/90s fame).

Other standouts are actors Aja Naomi King, Jemima Kirke, Alano Miller and Ryan Michelle Bathe as well as Lance Reddick, ("The Wire") who plays Mr. Jay.

A strong shout-out goes out to the hair and make-up team as well as the music, cinematography, production and costume design.

Note: Mr. Ashe also wrote the screenplay. Ms. Thompson served as an Executive Producer of the project. Mr. Asomugha served as one of the producers of the film as well.

If you are interested in learning more about film production and the effort it takes to make a film in this current day environment, this interview serves as a great source of information and inspiration.

Thank you Gabrielle and the entire crew for the effort! Well done!

Gabrielle's Bio:

Gabrielle Glore is Festival Director and Head of Programming for Urbanworld, a New York City festival providing a platform for film, digital, and music storytellers from around the globe. With a focus on community, Urbanworld curates an inclusive slate of content representing the broadest lens of storytelling for audiences.

In addition, Gabrielle consults with various media and entertainment companies, as well as nonprofits, on content curation, strategy, branding, and production, with current and historical clients including WarnerMedia, HBO, BET Networks, Leading Women Defined, Comcast, Viacom, ARRAY and the Equal Justice Initiative.

As a content creator in the film and television space, Gabrielle serves as a consulting producer for WarnerMedia’s 150, sourcing and developing stories for opportunities across the company’s portfolio of content driven brands. Her interest in creative producing has led to her involvement with projects including ESPN Films’ 30 for 30 documentary Through The Fire, narrative feature Dirty Laundry (Executive Producer), and the narrative feature, Sylvie’s Love (Producer), acquired out of Sundance 2020 by Amazon Studios.

For two seasons, she served as the Series Producer for CENTRIC’s television show "The Round", a platform for women giving inspiring TED-style talks on a range of impactful topics. She continues to develop a slate of film and television projects under the GLORIFIED production banner.

Prior to fostering her entrepreneurial spirit, Gabrielle spent over a decade in various marketing roles at Time Warner, across businesses including HBO and Warner Music Group, as well as Time Warner Corporate.

Gabrielle holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics, with a concentration in Marketing from The Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania.

Gabrielle also serves as a Board Member of MoCADA (Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts) in Brooklyn, NY, where she resides, as well as on the Board of The Moth, a NYC based nonprofit dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling.

DavidPFranceTV YEAR END COMMENTARY 2020
DAVID P. FRANCE
Founder, DavidPFranceTV
Basel, Switzerland

A brief year end commentary and thank you for 2020.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #50
DANNÉ JOHNSON
Law Professor, Oklahoma City University School of Law
Attorney
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
United States

In his 50th interview, David speaks with long-time friend and colleague, Danné Johnson, a law professor and attorney based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. In this conversation, David and Danné tackle the subject of race and black women, two of Danné's most passionate subjects of interest. During this discussion, they delve into hot topics such as immigration, LGBTQ, civil rights, black businesses and entrepreneurship, employee rights, Obama and the gender free bathrooms, fear playing out throughout the generations and the current role of corporations in society.

Danné Johnson is the Constance Baker Motley Professor of Law at Oklahoma City University School of Law. She is responsible for helping students to learn the law and how to best serve the needs of their clients through listening and cultural competency.

Danné has 17 years of experience as a professor. Her research and scholarship interests are varied. She enjoys discussion and research in the area of implicit bias. She has published articles on a variety of topics including, but not limited to, securities regulation and nonprofit organization, along with race, class and gender influences. Johnson is a sought-after speaker in the areas of nonprofit management and governance, implicit bias, race and feminism. She is a Certified Diversity Professional and has presented materials about race and implicit bias for the United Methodist Church, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, Office of the Federal Public Defender, the Oklahoma Library Association and One Mic One Voice Temple B’nai Israel 2019 Martin Luther King Day podcast. Johnson has taught in London, China and the Cayman Islands.

Danné’s awards include the Opala Lifetime Achievement in the Law 2020 presented the the Oklahoma City University School of Law Alumni, the Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher Award for Diversity 2019 presented by the Oklahoma City Association of Black Lawyers, and she has twice been recognized by the Journal Record as one of the “50 Making a Difference.” Johnson is an active member of the Links, Inc., a service organization for professional women where she serves as the strategic planning chairperson; Jack & Jill of America, Inc., an organization of mothers dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders where she chairs the nominations committee; The Make A Will and Financial Planning Program, an organization providing wills and estate planning materials where she works to secure law-student volunteers; and the Chi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

On the national stage, Danné has worked with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., on the Sisterhood and Inclusion Committee and as a member of the Legal Advisory Council; additionally, she is past chairman of the American Association of Law Schools Section of Women in Legal Education and a past member of the Law School Admissions Council’s Legal and Finance Committee.

Prior to launching an active and fulfilling life in Oklahoma City, Danné practiced law with MetLife from 2000-2003 where she worked to register and develop mutual funds and variable annuity policies, and from 1994 to 2000, Danné worked for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in the Division of Enforcement in New York City, serving as a staff attorney, senior counsel and finally, as a branch chief. In the latter role, she trained, supervised and guided attorneys who were investigating violations of federal securities laws.

Danné earned her JD from the National Law Center at George Washington University, and her BA in Afro American Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. She is licensed to practice in New York.

Danné and her spouse Reginald are the proud parents of two wonderful children Layla, 17, and Ahmad, 13. Her family serves as the motivation for all that she strives toward and is the reason for her struggle against everyday oppression.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #49
LUCA OCCELLI - Feelings and Judgment
Metaphysical Counselor / Practitioner
London, UK and Italy

For his 49th interview, David speaks with Luca Occelli for the third time. Luca is a Metaphysical Counselor based in London, United Kingdom who works there, and in his country of origin, Italy.

During this discussion, Luca speaks on the subject of judgment and how often it blocks us from feeling, from expressing ourselves fully and from giving, receiving and experience love. This love is not the traditional romantic which we know from the storybook, but love from experiencing inner peace which will allow us remain calm, removed, yet aware.

Luca provides explanations and methods to recognize judgment and manage it. Also, he provides steps to regain self-control, so that we can begin to feel better and eventually live with true freedom.

I hope you enjoy the conversation!

From Luca's Website:
https://www.lucaoccelli.com

I grew up in a small village in the north of Italy. At the age of 20, I went to London to learn English. I very much liked it and stayed there. My life was never perfect for various reasons. I was curious by nature and liked to try new things. My family situation was not a very happy one so I started to drink and experiment with drugs quite regularly.

My mother was addicted to antidepressants and to alcohol. She was very depressed and once told me that her biggest wish was to die. It shattered the perspective I had about my life and future, I became fragile and depressed too. At the young age of 47, she died without having to commit suicide.

That was one more excuse for me to drink more alcohol and take more drugs. This led to two major car accidents in which I was not injured although I destroyed two cars. One fine evening in 2002, I took so many drugs that while crossing the road in London I got hit by a car. I smashed my head against the windscreen (which felt as if a brick had hit my face) and I fell on the pavement with shattering impact.

To my surprise, I was completely unharmed. I was completely clueless about what had just happened in a fraction of a second! Two weeks after this accident while I was hanging out (it was early evening and I had not drunk any alcohol or taken drugs), a stranger approached me and told me that he was a Medium and had something important to tell me. It sounded funny at first and to my scientific mind, it was totally illogical!

He said there was a woman who could be my mother (this was six years after her death) who was communicating through him to say that she was fine and would always be there to help me in an instant like she had always done, but that it was time for me to change my lifestyle now.

Also, he told me to be careful from that day and for the next two weeks – not to drink and drive or get into cars with people who had been drinking. I never saw him again. He did not ask me for money but he left a piece of advice wrapped in a life-transforming revelation that I have cherished until today. That encounter literally changed my life.

Since then I have not grieved for my mother. I moved on. It became obvious to me that who we really are is that invisible, intangible something that pushed a man that did not know me to tell me what he did. I then literally looked up and said: “If there is something or someone out there who can help me out, I really want to change”.

I stopped taking drugs and drinking excessively and felt high on Life – as if I were taking the most powerful drugs I had ever taken! Living life happily literally became my drug, and I didn’t experience any withdrawal symptoms.

I felt so different. I believe it was because I opened myself to the possibility of Life being Eternal and to the existence of an Intelligence – a Power that I have been using ever since, a Power we all use even if we do so unconsciously.

I then started to look at everything that was spiritual in nature. I started reading books, attending seminars and workshops, I studied Metaphysics and Clinical Psychology in order to be able to help others overcome life’s challenges and discover who they truly are.

As I said, I opened myself up to a new dimension I had not considered before. Of course, I still had to work for what I wished for and I still have to, but the major fears, the source of anxiety and compulsions that I was feeling before, have disappeared. Soon after the event I felt so good that I made a pact with this invisible Intelligence, a Power that I experience regularly.

I promised that I would do whatever it took to remain in that state of consciousness naturally and that I would like to do something with what I had found to help others realise and feel the same. I now help others to realize the infinite potential that they have at their disposal and how to use it to live as happily as they wish. This has become my mission.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #48
ENRIQUE CRUZ DEJESUS
Artistic Director/Choreographer/Producer - Alpha Omega Theatrical Dance Company
New York City

For his 48th interview, David interviews Enrique Cruz DeJesus, the Artistic Director and Choreographer of Alpha Omega Theatrical Dance Company located in the East Village, New York City. David was a member of Alpha Omega from 2001-2007 when Enrique was transforming the company with the assistance of current Executive Director, Donna Clark and former Executive Director, the late Dolores “Dee Dee” Vanison-Blakely.

Enrique trained at Alpha Omega Theatrical Dance Company under the artistic direction of co-founder Ronn Pratt and Andy Torres while simultaneously studying at the Darvash School of Ballet and Dance Theater of Harlem.

As a dancer he worked with several modern dance companies and notable choreographers such as Eleo Pomare, Talley Beatty, Gary DeLoatch, Martial Roumain and George Faison. During this time, he began what became an active career as a choreographer, singer, actor and teacher in theater, film and concert dance and in 1998 became the artistic director of Alpha Omega Theatrical Dance Company.

Enrique’s artistic goal is to bring his directing and choreographing styles to concert dance with a liberal take on popular and urban movement along with traditional and theatrical forms. The blend creates contemporary modern dance works that are equally accessible and entertaining to all audiences.

Enrique teaches master classes and workshops locally and nationally and served as choreographer and teacher at Howard University, George Washington University, North Carolina Central State, Durham University, Florida A&M University, DC Arts and the NYC Arts Connection. His work as a teaching artist has been recognized by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council for his dance education work with inner city youth.

Enrique was awarded a SPARC grant and Manhattan Borough President ‘s grant for his work with seniors 65+ and has been further acknowledged by the New York State Council on the Arts where he served as a panelist.

Alpha Omega is located at 70 East 4th Street, NYC.

For more information, please feel free to contact Enrique at the following website:

http://alphaomegadance.org

Additional biographical information:

Enrique choreographed and staged The James Merritt production "From Africa to America" starring Award winning actors Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee and was the assistant director and choreographer for the workshop musical "Collapsing Universe" at Theater for the New City. He has choreographed productions of “Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night”, “Linnea” “Jeremiah” and “A Mid- Summer Night’s Dream” off- Broadway at the Storm Theater in addition to “Satin Slipper” at the Theater of Notre Dame in NYC. Additionally, he choreographed a production of “Carmen” for Teatro Circulo also in NYC. His work has been seen locally in the industrial marketing campaign for Wise snack products throughout NYC and nationally featured on the PBS documentary “Mi Mambo based on the Harbor Conservatory in East Harlem, NY.

Mr. Cruz DeJesus continues to work in theater, film, and concert dance with theater credits that include national tours of “Dreamgirls” and “Jesus Christ Superstar"; the original production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's “Requiem Variations” performed at the Opera Omaha Theater; the New York City Shakespeare Festival's “Measure for Measure”, produced by Tony Award winner George C. Wolfe; the European tour of “Evita”; the original workshop production of the Tony Award winning musical “The Life”, in which he was written as himself; “Man of La Mancha” at Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey and the Engeman Theater on Long Island; “Guys and Dolls” performed at the Dallas Theater Center; “The Who's Tommy” at Cherry County Playhouse in Michigan; “South Pacific” at Barrington Stage Theater in Massachusetts; “Camila”, “Miss Saigon” [Barrymore Nomination] and “Evita” at the Walnut Street Theater; “Ragtime” and the “King and I” at Fulton Opera House in Pennsylvania; “Two Gentlemen of Verona”, the musical at Centerstage in Baltimore, MD; “Aida” at ArtPark; “Black Nativity” [Drama Desk Nomination] at the Duke Theater in NYC; “Miss Saigon” and “Smokey Joe’s Café” at the Virginia Musical Theatre; and “Evita” at Arvada Arts Center in Colorado.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #47
"RAISE YOUR SPIRITS"
Founders: MAX MILLER / KEVIN RAIFORD / SCOTT KING
Pittsburgh/Las Vegas/Atlanta USA
www.raiseyourspirits.net

In his 47th interview, David speaks with the founders of “RAISE YOUR SPIRITS”, Max Miller, Kevin Raiford and Scott King.

“RAISE YOUR SPIRITS” is a “sales enhancement” and marketing event business which centers around the enjoyment of fine distilled beverages or “spirits” (brandy, vodka, tequila and the like) to engage and educate corporate clients, their employees and business associates.

Max, Kevin and Scott met while students at the University of Pennsylvania and developed an appreciation for spirits through hosting small private gatherings and cocktail parties. This friendship eventually lead to the start of their business, hosting events and introducing quality spirits to a larger audience.

In this conversation, David and the founders discuss how the business started, how they managed to get their first client, and how they managed their business before and during after the pandemic.

From the website: www.raiseyourspirits.net

Three strangers shared three glasses of spirits in college in 1986 and became friends for life.

These college friends went on to pursue careers in the consumer products industry and emerged with an understanding of business, business challenges, and with a passion for experiencing life to the fullest.

Twenty years later one friend approached the other two with an idea: bringing distilled spirits to life in an authentic and engaging way, and Raise Your Spirits was born.

At the core of the Raise Your Spirits philosophy is a desire to help organizations build lasting internal and external relationships using unique tasting experiences to drive engagement, sales, and productivity.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #46
KENNY FIKES
Developer, Entrepreneur
Knoxville, Tennessee USA

For this 46th interview, David speaks with Kenny Fikes, a developer and entrepreneur based in Knoxville, Tennessee
In this interview, David and Kenny discusses a few more ideas on this 24th of December, day before Christmas Day.
They talk about the current political environment, the economy and the current medical crisis happening in the United States.
They also discuss the current state of black leadership in America and his strategies for the end of 2020 and moving into 2021.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #45
RENEE AMBUSH
Impartation Strategist, Film Writer, Singer, Published Author and All-Around Creator
Atlanta, Georgia US
www.RebirthofRenee.com
www.ABetterBaltimore.us
FB: Renee Ambush
IG: RebirthofRenee
Twitter: OUTTHABOX7

In his 45th interview, David speaks with Renee Ambush, an "Impartation" Strategist a native of Baltimore, Maryland living outside of Atlanta, Georgia.

In this interview, Renee goes deeper into her work, her background in the field of psychology and social work and her love for Lauryn Hill (she gets fired up toward the end of the interview); it is always hearing her point of view.

What is an Impartation Strategist?

According to thefreedictionary online: Impartation is "the transmission of information. imparting, conveyance. transmission - communication by means of transmitted signals. giving - the imparting of news or promises etc.; "he gave us the news and made a great show of the giving"; "giving his word of honor seemed to come too easily"."

Well, Renee explains what that is... and shares with us her journey as an impartation strategist. I would call her a "healer", but it is much more.

Renee also shares her story as an "overcomer" of sexual and emotional abuse as well as negative generational thinking and belief systems. It is from this place which she began to acquire tools needed in order to take charge, control and responsible for herself and her future.

Renee is a renaissance woman. I call her a one-stop shop community center. She counsels, she writes, she sings - and she can even "do hair"... she is a licensed hairdresser and stylist for years. She has also recorded a gospel single which was noticed by the music industry, she's a licensed ordained minister... the list goes on.

Currently, Renee is working on a film called "Better Baltimore", which presents the average day and point of view from the working police officer in Baltimore. It is her hope that people can start to see a different perspective from the police narrative being portrayed in the media.

Why does Renee do all of these things? This is a very interesting conversation about how the "out-of-the-box" is the new normal.

We hope you enjoy it!

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #44
CHRISTINE CECONELLO
Choreographer, Dancer
Augsburg, Germany
https://www.christinececonello.com

For his 44th interview, David speaks with Christine Ceconello, a choreographer and dancer originally from Brazil and now residing in Germany. David and Christine worked together approximately five years when David P. France Dance Company was still in operating in Basel, Switzerland. During this conversation, Christine talks about her upbringing, how she developed an interest in dance, the various artists and choreographers she has worked for and with; as well as her connection in ballet and contemporary dance world in Europe.

David also speaks with Christine about dance as a language, woman in the field of dance (as directors and choreographers); the diversity in the creation and learning of dance; as well as the impact of the current epidemic on the dance community.

Christine is very pleased to invite you to attend the premiere of Christine Ceconello's work: 1:1 ONE ONE, on December 5th, at 7:30pm, on YouTube. Performers: Irupé Sarmiento and Diego Cruz.

The tickets can purchase through sympla, on the link:

https://www.sympla.com.br/11one-on-one__1067227

The idea of creating this show emerged as a means to continue developing our creativity, even in complex times. The show approaches an attempt to connect, a silent conversation, a desire to touch even if virtually. Not even different time zones and the distance prevented us from working together. We did all this for the pleasure of creating, dancing and sharing our art.

It will be a joy to share this work with you. I hope you will enjoy it and we want to know your opinion!

We are waiting for you!

Christine, Irupé and Diego

CHRISTINE'S BIO

Christine Ceconello was born in Caxias do Sul, Brazil. She is currently working as a dancer, choreographer and choreographic assistant throughout Europe and South America.

Starting out as a dancer with the Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro, she also went on to perform with Theatre Castro Alves, De Anima Dance Company, Staatstheater Augsburg, Grand Theatre de Geneve, Stadttheater Hagen, Theatre Heidelberg and Deutsche Oper Berlin. During this time she enjoyed dancing choreographies by Amanda Miller, Itzik Galili, Mauro Bigonzetti, Cayetano Soto, Peter Chu, Emily Molnar, Mauricio de Oliveira, Mário Nascimento, Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, Martino Muller, Stephen Shropshire and Andonis Foniadakis.

As of recent worked as choreographic assistant of Martino Muller, Marcelo Misailidis and Stephen Shropshire, helping them in the creation of their work.

She's been developing her own choreographic works, being nominated for the Prêmio de Dança Cesgranrio 2019/2020 as best choreographer and performer.

She now enjoys a varied carreer spreading throughout central Europe, assisting, performing and choreographing with independent artists and theatres.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #43
BAMBI DEVILLE
Actress, Stylist, Designer, Author and Entrepreneur
Owner of Bambi DeVille Vintage
New Orleans (French Quarter)
https://www.bambideville.com

For his 43rd interview, David speaks with long-time friend Bambi DeVille, a 7th generation New Orleanian, an actress, stylist, designer, author, entrepreneur and owner of Bambi Deville Vintage located in the French Quarter, New Orleans.
At this moment, Bambi is facing a number of challenges during this pandemic. As one of my eyes and ears on the ground in New Orleans, Bambi gives us a sense of the impact of this pandemic on small business owners and entrepreneurs in the French Quarter and the opportunities that the lockdown created in the face of what many might consider a major setback.

David and Bambi also discuss how creativity emerges in times of adversity, the impact of technology on American leadership and politics; generational shifts, luxury and the metrosexual, the impact of the pandemic and the election on the economy.

At this moment, Bambi is facing a number of challenges during this pandemic. As one of my eyes and ears on the ground in New Orleans, Bambi gives us a sense of the impact of this pandemic on small business owners and entrepreneurs in the French Quarter and the opportunities that the lockdown created in the face of what many might consider a major setback.

David and Bambi also discuss how creativity emerges in times of adversity, the impact of technology on American leadership and politics; generational shifts, luxury and the metrosexual, the impact of the pandemic and the election on the economy.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #42
ZOI FLOROSZ
A VIEW FROM BUDAPEST
Singer, Actress, Filmmaker
Budapest, Hungary

For his 42nd interview, David speaks with Zoi Florosz, a singer, actress and filmmaker based in New York City. David and Zoi cover a variety of topics: how she has been dealing with the pandemic, being chosen as a lead actress in an independent film, an update on her various film projects, her passion for music and singing, and lastly a discussion of the beauty and art form of Flamenco, its roots and influences.

Zoi's origin, her upbringing in Hungary, her parents (Hungarian Mother/Greek Father visual artists), her training in various art forms and disciplines (acting, jazz, classical music), her move to New York City for further training in video and filmmaking and her challenges living as an artist in the city.

During this conversation, Zoi also gives us insight into process as a participant and winner of various filmmaking prizes in different festivals including the Marche du Film in Cannes.

Zoi also describes how critical "networking" as it is in Cannes and film festivals around the world -Monaco, Athens, Cyprus, New York, including Winter Film Awards where she would eventually meet the person who become the center and story of her directorial debut documentary feature film.

Zoi is an exceptional conversationalist. I hope you all enjoy.

Zoi's Bio:

Zoi Florosz is an award-winning filmmaker, also a versatile singer/actress/dancer. She studied classical music at Conservatory of Pecs, jazz voice at Liszt Ferenc Music Academy in Budapest, and Musical Theatre at American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. Zoi concluded her studies at Digital Film Academy in NYC as a filmmaker.

From filmmaking to fine art music videos, dance films, documentaries, PBS specials, short and feature films, Zoi has worked as producer, director, director of photography, editor, choreographer. She also coordinated large camera crews on locations worldwide, leading multi-camera studio shoots, conducting exclusive interviews.

Zoi created the Film & Video Department at the legendary dance center New Dance
Group, New York, working as Film & Video Director, creating a weekly TV shows and
worked closely with choreographers.

Zoi's experience, passion and understanding for music and dance gives her special
perspective on how to choreograph for the camera, on how dance translates to digital
media. She loves the musical format.

Her credits includes:

GAMETIME -feature film, Choreographer/Assistant Director

BRUSHSTROKES – short, Director, Producer, Choreographer
/Awards- Independent Spirit Award @ Angel Film Awards Monaco International
Film Festival, Best Independent Film @ Winter Film Awards NYC

CHILDREN OF THE WIND- crossover music video, short, Singer/Actress,
Producer, Editor /Awards-Official selection @AFA Monaco International Film Festival, @Winter Film Awards, @World Peace Initiative - Peace and Tolerance Gala Cannes 2016,
@Cyprus International Film Festival, “ Best Live Performance Soundtrack”
award @Bridges International Film Festival Athens, Greece, 2017

DREAM OF A SHADOW-feature, Associate Producer, AD,
/Awards- Nostimon Imar Award @Cyprus International Film Festival, Best
Production design @Bridges International Film Festival

SYRINX-cellphone short, Director, DP, Editor, Music
/Awards-“Best Soundtrack for a film” @Global Short Film Awards Cannes 2019

BLUE BIRD OF HOPE-cellphone short, Director, DP, Editor, Producer
/Awards-“Best Documentary” @AFA World Peace Initiative Karl Bardosh
Humanitarian cellphone category, Cannes 2019

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #41
VALERIE BARNES
Film and Video Artist, Storyteller and Business Owner
Valerie Barnes Film
New York City
https://www.valeriebarnesfilm.com

The following interview took place on Sunday, 20 September 2020. David speaks with Valerie about the civil unrest and political change happening all over the United States. Valerie, who is based in New York City, gives us her view on how the pandemic and the lockdowns are affecting the city. David and Valerie also discuss matters including George Floyd, The Police and the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Toward the end, the conversation turns to Flamenco, which David has been learning for the past seven (7) years.

From Valerie's website:

Every person has a story.

​Whether the story unfolds through an art film, documentary, music film or a wedding film matters not. What matters is the ability for the filmmaker to interpret each story and present it in an emotionally engaging manner.
__________________________

I've always been enriched by the knowledge learned from the diversity in the projects I've created and in the people I've met along the way. These people have taught me that it is our differences which make us interesting and our similarities which unite us.

I have filmed people who celebrate in the joy of marriage, musicians who strive to be heard, performers who light up a stage or screen with their energy, those who struggle with intolerance and indifference against them, and many others who move forward in life trying to make their mark in whatever is their passion.

My work has taken me to places both nationally and internationally. I am mostly a referral based business which speaks to the trust and satisfaction others have felt when working with me.

Everybody has a story to tell and film and video are the vehicles I use to tell these stories.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #40
OMAR WASOW
Assistant Professor, Princeton University
Co-Founder of Blackplanet.com
Princeton, NJ

In his 40th interview, David speaks with Omar Wasow, Assistant Professor at Princeton University and Co-Founder of Blackplanet.com.

David met Omar when they worked at MSNBC (U.S. Cable Television Station).

Omar was a correspondent who focused on technology and David worked as a Guest Booker for Breaking News - Dayside and Weekend Programming.

In this conversation, David speaks with Omar about his upbringing, being biracial in America, his time at MSNBC, the birth of Blackplanet.com; the role of technology and innovation in the current media landscape, and how racial unrest and social upheaval could affect the election and the political direction of the United States.

Omar also speaks about his wife, Jennifer Brea, their marriage and Jennifer's debilitating experience suffering many years with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).

Omar is a graduate of Stanford University in California with a degree in Race and Ethnic Relations. He earned a PhD in African-American Studies, a Master of Arts in Government and an Master of Arts in Statistics, all from Harvard University.

Wasow graduated from Stuyvesant High School in New York City, where he was President of the Student Union.

In 1995, Wasow was proclaimed by Newsweek as one of the "fifty most influential people to watch in cyberspace.

(Note: As a professor, Omar's focus is on race and technology.

Blackplanet.com was launched on September 1, 2001 by Omar, who in 2001 was running "New York Online", a pre-web community he started in 1993 from his living room in Brooklyn. Blackplanet.com would eventually be sold via a company called Community Connect for $38 million to Radio One, a Lanham, Maryland-based media founded by Black American Businesswoman Cathy Hughes.)

www.blackplanet.com

(Additional note: Jennifer created a documentary film, "Unrest" about her experience often directing from her bed.

"Unrest", premiered at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival and received the US Documentary Special Jury Award For Editing.

Jennifer also co-created a virtual reality film which premiered at Tribeca Film Festival.

Currently, Jennifer is experiencing remission of the illness.)

www.unrest.film

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #39
ALEXANDRA D'ITALIA
Director of the Writing Center / Co-Director of the Moot Court Honors Program / Associate Professor of Law
Southwestern Law School
Writer, Artist, Podcast Co-Creator and Host: “Women Bridging The Gap”
Los Angeles, California USA

https://www.podchaser.com/creators/alexandra-ditalia-107aIZSp3X

In his 39th interview, David speaks with long-time friend, colleague and high school classmate Alexandra D'Italia.

Alexandra is a writer, intrepid traveler, WWOOFER, volunteer, and lifetime learner. After a brief career as a criminal defense attorney, she earns her living as a law professor in Los Angeles. She spends every summer she can teaching and volunteering at Jacaranda School for Orphans in Limbe, Malawi.

Alexandra is a Law Professor at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles. She is passionate about writing, art and traveling. David and Alexandra have not spoken in approximately 20 years. They cover a lot of topics in a very short period of time: growing up in South Orange/Maplewood, New Jersey; academic life, writing, travel, art and the pursue of non-traditional careers and living.

Alexandra's Biography from Podcast:

Alexandra is a writer, intrepid traveler, WWOOFER, volunteer, and lifetime learner. After a brief career as a criminal defense attorney, she earns her living as a law professor in Los Angeles. She spends every summer she can teaching and volunteering at Jacaranda School for Orphans in Limbe, Malawi.

Alexandra’s Biography on Law School Website:

Since high school, when she published her first short play, Alexandra D'Italia has had a passion for writing and has pursued a varied career path that requires that skill. As a result, she brings a unique perspective to her role as Director of the Writing Center at Southwestern. Early in her career, she was a communications specialist in press and Congressional relations, then earned her law degree so she could have a more hands-on role in advocacy. She went on to serve as a criminal defense appellate attorney representing indigent defendants through the Sixth District Appellate Program. She was also a contributing author to legal treatises, a freelance journalist, and a writer of fiction.

Regardless of its form, Professor D'Italia believes that all good writing has the same basic rule: "Know the audience and engage it." She explains, "You have to trust your reader, but at the same time you need to be generous to the reader. That balance is tough to learn, and so many students just give up." But she doesn't believe there are any "bad" writers out there, just "unpracticed ones."

"Strong writing skills are key to finding a job in this market. And in practice, a well-written brief can make the difference in a close case."

Professor D'Italia began her teaching career in 2002 as a member of the adjunct faculty of her alma mater, Golden Gate University School of Law, where she taught Appellate Advocacy and Legal Methods. She also served as faculty advisor to the Law Review and developed a unique advanced legal writing elective that incorporates creative writing workshop pedagogy to help engage law students in improving their legal writing.

Professor D'Italia joined Southwestern's Legal Analysis, Writing and Skills faculty in 2006, and later became an adjunct faculty member to concentrate on her own writing as well as the advanced legal writing elective. She returned to the full time faculty in Fall 2013 when she was appointed as the Writing Center Director. She also currently serves as Director of Southwestern's Moot Court Honors Program. Professor D'Italia is devoted to ensuring that students get as much writing experience as they can while they are in law school. Her dedication to students was recognized in 2012 and 2013 when she was awarded the Adjunct Excellence in Teaching Award.

She has served as a contributing author and editor of treatises on State Constitutional Law, Criminal Law Advocacy, Texas Torts and Remedies, Texas Litigation Guide, Illinois Tort Law, Illinois Civil Trial Guide, and Business Insurance Law, among other areas. She has also lectured on a variety of topics related to writing, public interest, and other areas of law. While a law student, she was a Public Interest Law Scholar and Managing Editor of the Law Review.

Professor D'Italia's training, experience, and accolades in writing are not limited to the law. She recently earned a Masters in Professional Writing with an emphasis in fiction from the University of Southern California, graduating with honors and winning the Edward W. Moses Award in Fiction. Her stories and plays have been published in national journals, including Gold Man Review, Meat for Tea, Red Rock Review, Arcadia and South Loop Review, and a number of her short plays have been produced, most recently in New York at The Producers' Club Theater.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #38
CHRIS YOUNG
Martial Artist, Actor and Model
Owner of Gong Lung (Steel Dragon) Studio
Pittsburgh

www.steel-dragon.org

For his 38th interview, David speaks with Chris Young for the second time. Chris is a martial artist, actor and model based in Pittsburgh, PA. In this episode, David and Chris discuss latest projects, acting, the art of making Chinese lions used in cultural celebrations and his ancestors. They also discuss the idea of FLOW and how it is integral to martial arts, dance (Chris is learning Samba), capoeira and daily life.

More on Chris:

At his school, Gong Lung (Steel Dragon) he and his students practice several style of Chinese martial arts including Eagle Claw, White Ape Connected Back, Xing-Yi, Bagua and Tai Chi. Additionally, they practice the Afro-Brazilian style of Capoeira Angola. Steel Dragon is also well known for Chinese lion dance, the performance of which is how it started. Steel Dragon performs Dragon Dance as well.

Chris fell into modeling by accident when he was scouted and enjoyed it. After a while, he decided to pursue it more seriously. In the process, he decided to take acting in the hopes it would help his modeling. As a result, thanks in no small part to his teacher, he also fell in love with acting itself and has started more seriously pursuing that craft on its own merit.

Where he can, Chris tries to find synergy between these three sets of skills and well as practicing them each on their own. The pursuit of these is pretty much the mainstay of his life.

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #37
ALESSANDRO LIZZA
Yoga Instructor
Holistic Operator
Rome, Italy

In his 37th interview, David speaks with Alessandro Lizza, a Yoga Instructor and Holistic Operator based in Rome, Italy.

During this interview, Alessandro gives us an update on the effects of the pandemic in Rome, highlights working out at home (instead of the gym), his diet and fasting and demonstrates a few exercises one can do while sitting in front of the computer. He also discusses in more detail how he feels about the mind, body and soul connection with regard to yoga and holistic living.

Alessandro Lizza is a yoga instructor and a holistic operator based in Rome. He has also worked as a natural nutritionist and developed and hosted workshops on “wellbeing & stress management “ for several international embassies in Italy.

A fitness and healthy life lover, you can find info about him on:

www.alessandrolizza.com
Instagram: alessandro_lizza
Facebook: YOGA Dynamic/Dynamic YOGA

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #36
RENEE AMBUSH
Impartation Strategist, Film Writer, Singer, Published Author and All-Around Creator
Baltimore, Maryland US
www.RebirthofRenee.com
www.ABetterBaltimore.us
FB: Renee Ambush
IG: RebirthofRenee
Twitter: OUTTHABOX7

In his 36th interview, David speaks with Renee Ambush, an "Impartation" Strategist from Baltimore, Maryland.

What is an Impartation Strategist?

According to thefreedictionary online: Impartation is "the transmission of information. imparting, conveyance. transmission - communication by means of transmitted signals. giving - the imparting of news or promises etc.; "he gave us the news and made a great show of the giving"; "giving his word of honor seemed to come too easily"."

Well, Renee explains what that is... and shares with us her journey as an impartation strategist. I would call her a "healer", but it is much more.

Renee also shares her story as an "overcomer" of sexual and emotional abuse as well as negative generational thinking and belief systems. It is from this place which she began to acquire tools needed in order to take charge, control and responsible for herself and her future.

Renee is a renaissance woman. I call her a one-stop shop community center. She counsels, she writes, she sings - and she can even "do hair"... she is a licensed hairdresser and stylist for years. She has also recorded a gospel single which was noticed by the music industry, she's a licensed ordained minister... the list goes on.

Currently, Renee is working on a film called "Better Baltimore", which presents the average day and point of view from the working police officer in Baltimore. It is her hope that people can start to see a different perspective from the police narrative being portrayed in the media.

Why does Renee do all of these things? This is a very interesting conversation about how the "out-of-the-box" is the new normal.

We hope you enjoy it!

DavidPFranceTV INTERVIEW #35
CHRISTAL BROWN
Choreographer, Educator, Performer, Professor, Mother, Life Mastery Consultant, Disciple of Christ
Chair, Dance Department, Middlebury College
Chief Visioning Officer for Steps & Stages Coaching
Middlebury, Vermont USA
https://christalbrown.com
http://www.middlebury.edu/academics/dance/faculty

For his 35th interview, David speaks with Christal Brown for the second time. Christal is a Choreographer, Educator, Performer, Mother, Life Mastery Consultant, Disciple of Christ, Associate Professor and Chair of the Dance Department at Middlebury College in Middlebury, Vermont USA.

Christal is also the Chief Visioning Officer of Steps & Stages Coaching.

During this conservation, we cover the recent launch of Christal's Life Coaching Business in which she offers DREAMBUILDING courses. David and Christal also discuss living one's dream, being creative and what that means, being in "right" relationship with oneself and the community, the role of structure in creation as well as the challenges of being a black woman in today's society.

Christal is a native of Kinston, North Carolina, and received her BFA in dance and minor in business from the University of NC at Greensboro. Upon graduation, Brown went on to tour nationally with Chuck Davis' African-American Dance Ensemble and internationally with Andrea E. Woods/Souloworks. Immediately following those experiences, Brown performed with and managed Gesel Mason Performance Projects while apprenticing with the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange in Takoma Park, Maryland. Upon relocating to New York Brown, apprenticed with the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company before finding a home with Urban Bush Women, where she spent three seasons as a principal performer, community specialist and apprentice program coordinator.

Aside from performing, Brown is the Founding Artistic Director of INSPIRIT, a performance ensemble and educational conglomerate dedicated to bringing female choreographers together to collaborate and show new work, expanding the views of women of all ages, and being a constant source of inspiration to its audience as well as members. Founded in 2000, INSPIRIT has been honored to show work at Aaron Davis Hall, St. Mark's Church, Joyce Soho, The Lincoln Theater of Washington, D.C., and various other venues across the country.

Combining her athleticism, creativity, love for people, and knack for teaching, Brown continues to teach and create works that redefine the art of dance and the structure of the field.

From Christal's Website:

Creating, Committing to, and Practicing our Best Selves

I am 41 years old, a woman of faith, and a single parent. I am also an entrepreneur and professor, and for the last 31 years of my life, I have been a dancer. My career as a dancer has given me the skills to create beauty and meaning through movement. While most people only see the outcome of my work through the performance, the true work lies in the creation, verification, and rehearsal of the ideas I want to convey. The performance is merely a hint of the process of discovery I’ve undergone.

Creation

Whether we assign ourselves the title of artist or not, we are all creative beings. Whether we use our creative energy to solve problems, bring people together, or manage a household, we all have a unique way of utilizing our gifts. As a dancer/choreographer, I develop ideas into movement, and then I use that language to illuminate important concepts and ideas. Although audiences may not completely understand my movement, that does not deter me from moving. In fact, my desire to communicate my concept urges me to move with deeper clarity, intention, and intelligence. In order to achieve my goal of communication, I need to look at the concept I am trying to express from as many vantage points as possible in order to verify my perspective.