We had the good fortune of connecting with Heidi Duckler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heidi, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk-taking in general is an important aspect of life, It challenges our grit and our perseverance. Taking risks has played a monumental role in my career and journey of site-specific work. Embracing risks leads to a more creative practice for the work that I do. Experimenting with risks has encouraged me to be an innovator and a leader in my field. Creative risks have also provided me the courage to create change in my process.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

When it comes to my art, what sets me apart from others is that me and my dancers create movement anywhere but a stage. I am most proud of and excited about the sustainability of the company being around for over 38 years, and how the company celebrates inclusion and creates a more equitable platform for expression throughout Los Angeles.

Nothing is easy. Success comes slowly over time. As one keeps learning and evolving, we need to understand that we should be open to change and adapting to new circumstances and different perspectives. That is not an easy feat to do for anyone. Having empathy has got me to where I am today professionally and personally.

The lessons I have learned along the way are to adapt and how doing that aids in our survival of the world. I encourage all of us to be open and listen. I want the world to know that Heidi Duckler Dance thrives on excellence. We don’t accept the status quo. We challenge current circumstances. That’s what makes us daring, bold, and visionary.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Climb the Overlook at Baldwin Hills for a great scenic view of the city followed by brunch at Post and Beam.

Day 2: Drive down the Arroyo Seco to experience the LA River and stop at the eclectic Bunny Museum in Altadena.

Day 3: During the day, head over to Santa Monica Pier for sweet treats and a ride on the historic Ferris wheel. At night, take an immersive night walk at Astra Lumina in Palos Verdes.

Day 4: Begin with a hike at Tree People and explore deep into the valley, then head over to Idle Hour in North Hollywood for burgers and beers.

Day 5: Museum day at The Broad then go to Perch for lunch in downtown LA. Conclude with spending time at The Geffen and end the night at The Lets Go Disco & Cocktail Club in the arts district.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to the individuals who believe in me and the work that I do. I dedicate this to Heidi Duckler Dance’s longtime supporters, funders, and our amazing board of directors, and staff. To our phenomenal artists, collaborators, musicians, production teams, and Teaching Artists, thank you for your endless support, efforts, encouragement, values and most importantly, your love.

Website: www.heididuckler.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heididuckler/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heidi-duckler-dance/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heididucklerdance

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiiakWRk9taMbYBwFr4k2Sg

Image Credits
Sean Deckert, Rush Varela, GingerSolePhotography

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