Becoming Daddy AF: Redefining Virtuosity and Legacy with David Roussève

Growing older is a privilege… I had to ask myself, What is the truth of my own life?” – David Roussève

In this resonant conversation, David Rousseve—internationally acclaimed choreographer, performer, and educator—reveals the journey behind his first full-length solo work in over 20 years: Becoming Daddy AF. From his early days as a solo performance artist in the 1980s in New York, through groundbreaking group choreographies and personal loss, to the layered present of movement, memory, and mentorship, David’s story is as profound as it is inspiring. We discuss the paradoxes of aging in dance, redefining virtuosity, and the courageous vulnerability required to honor both past and present in the body. David opens up about love, loss, and the power of chosen family, candidly sharing how personal tragedy and deep compassion shaped his art. We also explore his views on technology in performance, crafting kinetic storytelling for both stage and film, and his unwavering belief in the ability of the arts to bridge divides and cultivate shared humanity. This episode is a masterclass on creative longevity, purpose, and the dance between grief and joy—onstage and in life.

A Few Key Takeaways

Evolving Virtuosity: Movement Across Generations David dives into what it means to be a dancer at 65. The virtues of maturity, wisdom, and self-acceptance become sources of innovation, not limitation. Love, Grief, and the Transformation of Self The life and loss of David’s partner, Connor, became the emotional core of Becoming Daddy AF—offering audiences space for empathy, reflection, and hope. Rethinking the Artist’s Role in Society From collaborations with the ballroom and Vogue communities to speaking at UCLA’s Commencement, David insists that artists are vital agents of healing and unity in polarized times. Creating Meaning Through Technology and Metaphor Despite a love-hate relationship with digital tools, David explores how projection, sound, and light add emotional layers and expand storytelling potential onstage. Mentorship, Meditation, and Sustained Inspiration David discusses daily practices—especially meditation—that anchor his creativity, teaching artists to find purpose and connection at every stage of their journeys.

Links/Credits Mentioned in this Episode

• Learn more about David Rousseve: Official bio and upcoming performances at CAP UCLA
• Becoming Daddy AF: Kelly Strayhorn Theater