35. Dancing Toward Change: Dan Watt’s Journey from Stage Performer to Emmy Winning Filmmaker

In this interview, Emmy Award-winner Dan Watt joins Teisha for an exciting and heartfelt conversation about his journey from dancer to director, producer, and documentary filmmaker–and all the pivots and setbacks in between.

We begin by exploring Dan’s love for performance, recalling childhood memories of putting on neighborhood shows, learning ballroom dance in his parents’ basement, and having his natural rhythm discovered by his dance teacher during a freshman talent show—early experiences that planted the seeds for his future in the arts.

Next, we dive into the depths of his incredible career, including the early challenges he faced such as fierce competition and personal rejection like being told he was “too masculine” for a Janet Jackson video; his transition to director in which he choreographed 100+ sold-out performances like Annie and Foot Loose, and worked to increase access of lesser known productions by bringing them to the L.A. market where they became unexpected hits; and his break into TV and film in which he spent 10 years working with Columbia Pictures and Simon Cowell realizing the value of transferable skills and age-based wisdom–but not before he experienced a discriminating rejection by the Dr. Phill Show.

Then, we zoom in on his greatest challenge—and most rewarding project—producing the Emmy Award-winning documentary, Everybody Dance, a film that follows children with disabilities who find joy and empowerment through dance; discuss how spending 10 months filming these families profoundly changed Dan forever, opening his eyes to the daily challenges these kids face and the incredible strength and resilience they show; and highlight how the experience deepened his understanding of disability inclusion and inspired him to continue creating projects that give a voice to underrepresented communities.

Packed with humor, insight, and real-life lessons on overcoming adversity, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling, the arts, and making a difference.

Resources:

• Everybody Dance

• Dan Watt on Instagram

• Dan Watt on Threads

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