Catch our upcoming virtual variety show on November 7 at 4 PM PST!
Playspaces is a virtual variety show produced by People Play Dance Theatre, celebrating movement in unconventional spaces. Each featured work was created or filmed outside traditional stage spaces. The artists of Playspaces explore how physical expression transforms ordinary environments into sites of imagination. Each piece reveals the human body’s ability to play, adapt, and create meaning wherever it moves.
People Play Dance Theatre invites movers, dancers, and performance makers to submit short works for Playspaces, a virtual variety show.
We’re seeking original movement-based works created and filmed in non-traditional spaces. This could be a hotel room, a stairwell, a rooftop, a garden, a parking lot. For this production, the location is as much a part of the piece as the performer.
After the premiere: The full program will remain available for replay.Submission Guidelines
Who Can Apply:
Dancers, movers, physical theater artists, interdisciplinary performers. Individual and group performances will be considered. Please submit a separate form for each submission.
What We’re Looking For:
Original works filmed in non-traditional spaces Strong use of movement and location Clarity of concept and creative camera framing
Technical Specs:
Video format: MP4 or MOV, 1080p minimum
Landscape orientation
Sound: Original score, royalty-free, or live natural sound preferred.
Announcing a new show with Stage Fright Theater Company!
Ever wonder what would happen if your favorite horror slashers settled their scores on the dance floor? In this killer competition, three iconic villains face off in a no-holds-barred boogie battle for the ultimate prize: the Golden Knife. Who will slay the stage-and who will get served?
Cast
Cam Crystallake (Host) – Jeremy Lucas Michael Myers- Kara Bree Jason Voorhees- Valerie Brewster Ghostface- Chelsea Caracoza
Choreography by Nicole Rudder
Join us on the Show Floor Stage at Midsummer Scream!
Discover the innovative world of Mummenschanz, the legendary Swiss mime troupe that redefined visual theater. This lecture, narrated by Nicole Rudder, explores their signature style, iconic performances, and the concept of “mummery” that sets them apart. Learn how Mummenschanz continues to captivate audiences without words, using masks, props, and movement to create unforgettable storytelling.
We recently wrapped up an incredible photo shoot with some amazing Orange County performers!
This shoot was not only a celebration of creativity but also a chance to support our local community.
We are proud to have sponsored this event to create unique marketing materials for a local business and an opportunity for performers to connect and play.
We are truly grateful to these local performers and our creative team for joining us in bringing these visions to life!
We’d also like to give a massive thank you to our supporters who help make events like this possible. Your contributions directly impact our ability to foster creativity and community connections.
Want to help us keep the momentum going?
Donate today and help us continue providing resources and opportunities for artists!
For performers and artists, imposter syndrome can feel like an unwelcome shadow, lingering just behind moments of success or creativity. This ever-lurking shadow whispers doubts into the quiet spaces of your mind:
“You don’t belong here.”
“You’re not talented enough.”
“What if they find out you’re a fraud?”
If these thoughts sound familiar, know this: you are not alone.
Imposter syndrome thrives in the hearts of high achievers, particularly in industries where subjective opinions often shape how we measure success. However, it is not an insurmountable barrier. Here’s how you can begin to overcome it:
1. Redefine Success
Success in the arts is not a straight line. It’s a winding journey marked by growth, experimentation, and connection. Celebrate personal milestones instead of focusing on external accolades such as applause, awards, or social media followers. Your milestones may be something like mastering a new technique, completing a challenging project, or simply showing up for your art on the hard days.
2. Embrace Vulnerability
Artistry is inherently vulnerable. Every performance and every creation is a piece of you offered to the world. Imposter syndrome thrives in the fear of being seen, but what if being seen is the point? Lean into your vulnerability; it’s where your authenticity lives. And authenticity, more than perfection, is what audiences and collaborators connect with.
3. Challenge your Inner Critic
Your inner critic may be loud, but they are not always truthful. When it says you’re not good enough, ask yourself: “Is this fact or fear?” Collect evidence of your competence, whether it be positive feedback, moments of pride, or the reminder that someone asked you to show up and share your work.
Over time, repeating this practice can help reframe the narrative.
4. Remember That You’re Not Alone
Even the most seasoned professionals experience moments of doubt. Meryl Streep has spoken about feeling like a fraud. Maya Angelou admitted to worrying that she’d be “found out” despite her unparalleled literary achievements. These icons remind us that imposter syndrome doesn’t invalidate our worth; it’s a sign that we care deeply about what we do.
5. Build a Support Network
Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. These people could be mentors, peers, and friends who remind you of your value. Share your feelings with them; often, simply voicing your doubts can diminish their power.
6. Create for the Love of It
Remember why you started. Whether it’s the joy of storytelling, the thrill of live performance, or the freedom of creative expression, reconnecting with your “why” can ground you. When you focus on the act of creating rather than the validation it might bring, the weight of imposter syndrome lessens.
7. Reframe Failure as Growth
Fear of failure often fuels imposter syndrome.
Remember, failure is not the end of the art, it’s a tool for growth. Every misstep is an opportunity to learn and improve. Allow yourself the grace to stumble, knowing that growth often comes from the moments that challenge you most.
You Belong Here
Your voice, movement, and vision matter as a performer or artist. The world needs your unique perspective. Being human means you inherently have the ability to reflect humanity, evoke emotion, and spark change. Imposter syndrome is not a sign that you don’t belong; it’s often a sign that you’re pushing boundaries and stepping into spaces that demand your courage.
So take a deep breath, step into the spotlight, and trust in the power of your artistry. You are enough, just as you are.
Find calm in just 3 minutes with this guided breathing meditation. Perfect for busy schedules, this short practice helps you center your mind, reduce stress, and reconnect with your breath. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a midday pause, or winding down, this meditation is here to guide you toward mindfulness and relaxation.
It’s tempting to say “yes” to every opportunity that comes your way—after all, every gig seems like a step forward in your career, or another chance for fun. But here’s the hard truth: taking on too much can backfire, both professionally and personally.
In my experience, dancers who overcommit can end up in situations where they either have to flake out or underdeliver, leaving behind frustrated choreographers, directors, or collaborators. That kind of reputation can ruin future opportunities faster than you think.
Before you commit to a project, take a step back and ask yourself:
Do I truly have the time in my schedule to give this my best effort?
Do I have the skills or stamina to meet the expectations of this role?
Will this opportunity align with my long-term goals as a dancer
Am I truly willing to show up for this opportunity?
Setting boundaries isn’t about saying no to everything—it’s about being intentional with your yes.
Learning to set boundaries will allow you to show up fully prepared, professional, and committed with consideration and respect for the rest of the production team
Don’t be the dancer who agrees to everything and ends up quitting halfway through. Be the dancer who knows their limits, sets boundaries, and builds a reliable, professional reputation you can be proud of.
Reflection is a powerful tool for growth, especially in dance. Reflecting on your experiences can deepen your understanding of the skills, techniques, and creativity explored in the dance studio. It’s an opportunity to celebrate your progress, acknowledge challenges, and consider how to use what you’ve learned moving forward.
The end of the year (or semester or term) is the perfect time to pause and reflect on your dance journey. What did you learn? What inspired you? What surprised you? These reflections can also help your dance instructors design future classes tailored to their students’ needs and interests.
People Play Dance Theatre 