Perspectives: Zooming in on Dance Leadership featuring Bailey Woodman
Get to Know Bailey:
Where are you from and where are you based now?
Toronto
What are your roles in the dance industry?
Dance Educator, Choreographer, Performer, Adjudicator, Administrator, Associate Director/Choreographer for Virgin Voyages
What are your top 3 favourite credits or jobs from your dance career?
Cirque Du Soleil, 7 Fingers, Associate Director/Choreographer for Virgin Voyages
"…My commitment is to create open and honest spaces where everyone can thrive and blossom into the artists they are meant to be..”
Photo of Bailey Woodman
What does the word leadership mean to you in the context of the dance industry? How do you think it applies to your roles as a dance educator, choreographer, and leader, and how does it influence your practices?
I have always embraced my role as a leader in dance, and I am deeply honoured by the opportunities that have helped me grow in this capacity. From dance captaining and assistant choreographing to serving as a head adjudicator and most recently as an associate to widely recognized directors and choreographers, each experience has shaped my perspective and purpose. I hold this role with immense gratitude, recognizing it as my chance to ensure every dancer feels seen, valued, and safe in the art form they love. My commitment is to create open and honest spaces where everyone can thrive and blossom into the artists they are meant to be.
Can you share ONE pivotal moment in your dance career that shaped your growth as a performer, choreographer, or leader in the industry?
Meeting my mentor Genevieve Dorion-Coupal when I was 20 years old.
What is your favourite thing about working in the dance industry?
My favorite thing about working in the dance industry is the constant challenge it brings. While no day ever feels easy—each one demands new levels of creativity and adaptability—my passion for what I do outweighs every obstacle. The inspiration I find in a studio is limitless!
What is your VISION for the future of the local or global dance community? How do you hope to see the dance industry evolve, especially regarding leadership, inclusivity, and mentorship?
Dance is ever-evolving and thrives through the guidance of teachers, as all our knowledge is passed down through shared experience. I dream of an industry free from gatekeeping, where every generation feels inspired and empowered to grow. By fostering this spirit, we can use dance not only to shape skilled artists but also to nurture compassionate, well-rounded individuals both inside and outside the studio.
What advice would you give to others stepping into leadership roles in the dance industry, such as becoming a dance educator, choreographer, or adjudicator?
My advice to peers stepping into leadership roles is to prioritize understanding the people you work with as humans, not just dancers. Can that note wait? Is that note something that needs to be done on its feet? Say your feedback twice in your head with different tones; which one would you rather receive? Everything is figure-out-able. Lead from behind the pack and with an open heart. If you are clear, you are kind.
Who has been a mentor in your dance career, and how did their guidance influence your growth?
Genevieve Dorion Coupal took me under her wing when I was 20, and her mentorship forever changed the course of my career. She transformed me from a "studio kid" into an artist who understands entertainment through the eyes of an audience. Under her guidance, I learned to see the bigger picture: how to tell a story with authenticity, move with intention, and pace myself both mentally and physically during long rehearsal days. She taught me the value of compartmentalizing different projects and artistic endeavours and to stay grounded. But most importantly, she showed me that the best stories you bring to the stage come from the life you live off it.
If you could give one piece of advice to young dancers or people who want to enter the dance industry—in all its forms—what would it be?
What you love about dance will continually change...but you will always love it.
Anything we missed or that you’d like to add?
Thanks for reading about my story with dance. I am an open book! Feel free to reach out to me on socials or by email if you have any questions.
Thank you Bailey, for sharing your inspiring journey and commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and empowering space for dancers to grow and thrive. You can stay connected with Bailey via Instagram: @baileywoodman or email: baileywoodman@gmail.com
