57 - Rachael Markarian: 2x Superbowl Halftime Shows, Katy Perry, Rihanna, Pink, Beyoncé

Episode Summary:

Rachel Markarian, a versatile entertainment professional with an illustrious career as a dancer, choreographer, actor, and educator. Rachel takes us through her inspiring journey from her early struggles with ballet to becoming a seasoned artist working with industry legends like Rihanna, Katy Perry, Beyoncé, and more. 

Rachel discusses her pivotal moments, from moving to New York at 15 to pursuing her career in Los Angeles, and how she transitioned from dance to acting, embracing new opportunities despite injuries. She also talks about her role as an educator, her work with Energy Dance Project and CLI Conservatory, and the importance of teaching young dancers both technical skills and life lessons.

She offers invaluable advice on handling rejection, growing confidence, building a personal brand, and balancing multiple career paths. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights for dancers looking to thrive in the entertainment world.

Show Notes:

• (00:00) - Introduction to the podcast and guest, Rachel Markarian

• (04:30) - Rachel’s early struggles with ballet and how overcoming physical challenges shaped her career

• (10:30) - The influence of conventions and how Rachel discovered the larger dance world

• (16:00) - Moving to New York at 15 and gaining independence to pursue her dreams

• (20:00) - Transitioning to LA: Rachel’s journey into commercial dance and her first big break

• (25:00) - Behind the scenes of life on tour

• (35:00) - Transitioning from dance to acting: How Rachel pivoted after a back injury and during the pandemic

• (42:00) - Rachel’s work as an educator and mentor to the next generation of dancers

• (50:00) - The secret to longevity in the dance industry

• (57:00) - How to maintain confidence through auditions and setbacks

• (1:05:00) - Building confidence and growing your social media following

• (1:12:00) - Pursuing multiple career paths

• (1:20:00) - Q&A: Answering questions from aspiring dancers and sharing advice

• (1:30:00) - Final words: The importance of following your gut and focusing on your goals

Biography:

Rachael Markarian grew up outside of Boston, where she was immersed in a rich tapestry of arts and culture from an early age. New York City soon became a second home, especially after she attended a Performing Arts High School and trained at some of the city’s most prestigious institutions. Her passion for the arts blossomed, leading her to major in Theatre & Dance at Oklahoma City University. Afterward, she moved to Los Angeles, where she booked her first film role in The Haunted Mansion alongside Eddie Murphy. 

Rachael has collaborated with esteemed directors such as Michael Satrazemis, Susanne Bier, Joseph Kosinski, Ryan Murphy, Avi Youabian, Steven Soderbergh, Amy Sherman-Palladino, Christopher Guest, and many more. Her impressive list of credits includes Top Gun: Maverick, Magnum PI, Captain America: Brave New World, Tales of the Walking Dead, Sweet Magnolias, The Morning Show, All American, Queens, Bandit, First Wives Club, Dollface, The First Lady, Legion, Glee, True Blood, and The Ms. Pat Show, as well as commercials for brands like AFLAC Insurance, Microsoft, Target, and H&M. Her love for theater led her to portray the lead role of Kari in The Pavilion, a Pulitzer Prize-nominated play by Craig Wright, at the Malibu Playhouse.

As a performer, Rachael has danced and toured with top artists, including Rihanna, Katy Perry, Beyoncé, Pink, Justin Timberlake