80 - Liz Imperio: Madonna, Michael Jackson, Gloria Estefan, Cher

Interview date: December 8, 2024

Episode Summary:

Liz Imperio, a renowned choreographer, director, and educator with an extensive career working with superstars like Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, and Gloria Estefan. Liz shares her personal journey from a young dancer struggling with body image in ballet to becoming a leading figure in the dance industry. She discusses pivotal moments, including her discovery of flamenco, working alongside Kenny Ortega, and choreographing her first world tour at the age of 20.

Liz emphasizes the importance of resilience and the mindset required for longevity in the dance industry. She offers invaluable advice on finding your unique voice, trusting your creativity, and staying true to your craft despite the pressures to conform. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the significance of self-worth and the role of personal relationships in advancing a dance career.

This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring dancers looking to break through the barriers of self-doubt and achieve success in a competitive and evolving field.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Liz Imperio’s background

• (2:30) Liz’s early dance experiences and discovering her passion for movement

• (5:45) Overcoming rejection in ballet and transitioning to other dance styles

• (11:00) Liz’s first professional dance company at age 14

• (16:30) Working with Kenny Ortega and becoming his associate choreographer

• (20:00) Liz’s journey to choreographing her first world tour at age 20

• (25:15) The power of trusting your creativity and overcoming self-doubt

• (30:00) The role of mindset and belief in a dancer’s career success

• (35:00) Liz’s work as the artistic director of Hollywood Vibe Dance Convention

• (40:30) Building a culture of teamwork and trust in dance environments

• (45:00) Liz’s journey with Success Dance and creating programs for dancers

• (50:00) Networking and standing out in the dance industry

• (55:00) Advice for dancers on navigating the business side of dance

• (60:00) Liz’s perspective on being Latina in the industry and embracing cultural uniqueness

• (65:00) Closing thoughts on passion, self-worth, and perseverance in dance

Biography:
Liz Imperio is a highly acclaimed director and choreographer in the entertainment industry with an impressive list of achievements. Born and raised in Hollywood, California, she has worked with some of the biggest names in music and entertainment, including Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Gloria Estefan, Cher, and Michael Jackson.

She has directed and choreographed Jennifer Lopez's world tour, Dance Again, as well as Gloria Estefan's last three world concert tours. Liz also directed and choreographed two of Madonna's world tours: the Re-invention Tour and the Confessions Tour. Her work has been seen in various television shows and specials such as American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, American Music Awards, and Disney Channel's Gotta Kick It Up. Liz has also directed and choreographed for movies and commercials.

In addition to her impressive resume, Liz was recently named Honorary Artistic Director and was commissioned to set new works to celebrate Giordano's Jazz Dance Chicago's 50th Anniversary. The piece, La Bellaza de Cuba, premiered to rave reviews and toured throughout Europe in the summer of 2022.

Liz is known for her creativity and unique style, which is heavily influenced by her Cuban-American heritage. Her work has been praised for its fusion of various dance styles, from contemporary to Latin, and her ability to tell stories through movement. Her innovative choreography has earned her several awards, including an Emmy for Outstanding Choreography for the television special, Great Performances: Miami City Ballet Dances Balanchine and Tharp.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/lizimperio

https://www.facebook.com/liz.imperio

App

https://success.dance/