61 - Chantal Robson: Madonna, One Direction, N´sync, Usher, Becky G, Madison Beer

Episode Summary:

Chantal Robson, a choreographer, creative director, and producer with an impressive career working with pop icons like NSYNC, Britney Spears, Madonna, and Demi Lovato. Chantal shares her remarkable journey from Australia to the heart of the entertainment industry, offering invaluable insights into her evolution from a professional dancer to a leading figure in creative direction and production.

Chantal discusses her early days in dance, the pivotal moments that led her to choreograph and direct, and how she seamlessly transitioned into the role of creative producer for massive productions like The Grammys, Billboard Music Awards, and America’s Got Talent. She reveals behind-the-scenes stories, including the challenges and triumphs of producing large-scale events, directing award shows, and her creative process for shaping unforgettable performances.

Throughout the episode, Chantal emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, understanding the business side of dance, and embracing the journey even in the face of rejection. She also provides practical advice for aspiring dancers and creatives on how to approach auditions, build valuable relationships, and gain experience through assisting and learning from industry veterans.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to take their dance career to the next level, whether on stage or behind the scenes. Join us for this inspiring conversation with one of the industry's finest!

Show Notes:

• (0:00) – Introduction to The Business of Dance podcast

• (1:15) – Menina introduces Chantal Robson and her incredible career in the dance industry.

• (3:30) – Chantal’s early dance experience in Australia and move to the U.S.

• (6:00) – Chantal’s first break as a backup dancer and her transition to professional dance.

• (8:45) – Transitioning from dancer to choreographer and creative director.

• (12:00) – Behind-the-scenes of large-scale events: The Grammys, Billboard Music Awards, America’s Got Talent.

• (17:00) – Creative process and managing the pressure of producing large shows.

• (22:00) – Handling rejection and staying true to yourself in the dance world.

• (26:00) – Gaining experience and building relationships through assisting.

• (31:00) – The role of social media for dancers in today’s industry.

• (35:00) – Balancing artistic vision with commercial success in dance productions.

• (39:00) – Final advice on staying confident and authentic in your dance career.

• (42:30) – Menina wraps up the episode with gratitude for Chantal’s insights.

Biography:

Chantal Robson is a Creative Director, Choreographer, Producer, Educator, performance coach and Visionary who has worked with some of the top global talents including, One Direction, N’sync, Demi Lovato, Becky G, Britney Spears, Usher, Madonna, Gloria Trevi, Victoria Justice, Madison Beer, Leah Kate and more.

Moving from Australia at a young age, Chantal started as a professional dancer and quickly moved into choreography and associate creative producing many live stage shows and performances. From choreographing 4 years of JUST DANCE VIDEO GAMES for Disney to producing and directing on multiple awards shows (Grammy’s, Billboard’s, VMA’s, Kid’s Choice, etc) and live concerts for Demi Lovato, N’sync, Britney Spears and Gloria Trevi to stage shows for Disney and Franco Dragone productions- INDIA.

Chantal has also recently worked with Silent House on the amazing “Awakening” at the Wynn Hotel and produced the 2023 F1 Opening. In TV Chantal has been a Choreographer on American Idol, eight seasons as supervising ch