The Art of Choreography with Gianna Reisen
Movement is “allowing yourself to let go,” according to professional dancer and choreographer, Gianna Reisen, who outlines her creative process, favorite parts about living in both Los Angeles and New York, how to stay inspired, and what she’s most looking forward to this year.
Photo: @pickledthoughts
First, tell us a little bit about yourself, your background with classical ballet, and the evolution of your dance career.
I began training at the School of American Ballet in New York City when I was 11 years old. After studying at SAB for seven years, I was offered an apprenticeship with the SemperOper Ballet in Dresden, Germany. That same year, I was commissioned to choreograph my first ballet for the New York City Ballet, which premiered in 2017 at the the company’s Fall Fashion Gala. My ballet for NYCB opened many doors for me, and since then, I’ve choreographed twice for NYCB, I’ve danced and choreographed for the Los Angeles Dance Project and have come back to work for SAB as a choreographer. Sort of a full circle moment!
What does the process look like for you when choreographing a body of work?
My choreographic process always starts with the music. It is the most important aspect of dance-making to me. After I find a piece of music that inspires me, I will study it for a few months before I begin working in the studio with the dancers. Rather than coming up with a theme or story beforehand, I like to experiment with my interpretation of the music to see if the movement leads me to a story or theme. I am very particular in my creation process, but I also love to collaborate with my dancers and lead a positive, conversational experience for everyone.
Photo: Paul Kolnik
As the youngest choreographer in history to offer a ballet to New York City Ballet’s storied repertoire, what advice can you offer to young dancers who are interested in becoming choreographers?
If your school or training program offers any choreographic opportunities, do it! I’ve heard a lot of stories about dancers being interested in choreography, but fearing the vulnerability it takes to create work for the first time. Every process is different and it is extremely important to take your time to ensure your creative voice can be heard by your audience. There is a first time for everything. Trust your vision!
What does the word movement mean to you?
To me, movement is tied so deeply to the music or composition you are moving to. I believe movement can be your direct interpretation of the notes in a composition or the lyrics in a song. Movement is incredibly freeing, whether you are a trained dancer or not. It is so important to be in tune with your body. Movement is allowing yourself to let go.
What has been the most exciting moment in your career so far and why?
The most exciting moment in my career so far has been premiering my first work for the New York City Ballet. Words cannot describe how incredible it was to feel this breakthrough within myself as an artist. It was a very special moment for me and felt like a dream come true!
Having lived in both New York and Los Angeles, what are your favorite and least favorite things about both cities?
Photo: @pickledthoughts
New York is near and dear to my heart because I lived my early/teenage years in the city, and some of my fondest memories as a choreographer happened there. I love the culture that New York has to offer in the performing arts world and in everyday life. I’m not sure that I have a least favorite thing! In Los Angeles, the performing arts world is up and coming, I love the sunshine, and I love how dedicated people are to the creative industry. My least favorite part would probably be that you have to drive everywhere… I don’t have a license!
How have you stay inspired during the pandemic?
I think film is a medium that a lot of dancers and choreographers are using to keep dance alive through this pandemic, being that live performances are being put on hold. I have worked on a lot of film sets (whether as an actress, choreographer, dancer, or director) throughout the pandemic as a way to stay engaged and inspired. I’ve learned a lot about the film industry and I am excited to have the knowledge I have now moving forward into other projects.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
I am looking forward to a bit of relief for the world we are living in today. I think that a lot of artists and creatives are beginning to see a light at the end of the tunnel and I am happy to be one of those people. I am eager to keep working on personal projects and collaborating with the people I love, despite our distance.
Learn more about her work at giannaresien.com
Follow Gianna on Instagram at @reisen_dance