143 | Identity and Impact with Rai Barnard

Knowbox dance
1 day ago
2 min read

#143: In this episode of Dance Behind the Screen, host Martheya sits down with Rai Barnard, a queer Dallas-based choreographer and performer. Rai creates contemporary dance works rooted in lived experience and influenced by their background in both dance and biology. They share insights into their creative process and offer practical advice for independent artists: highlighting the value of community engagement, building strategic partnerships, and balancing digital and traditional media for effective outreach. (42:31)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dance Behind the Screen

01:02 Meet Rai Barnard: A Visionary Choreographer

04:58 The Intersection of Dance and Biology

10:06 Technology's Role in Enhancing Dance

13:52 Exploring Identity in Dance and Marketing

17:56 Practical Tips for Independent Artists

28:00 The Importance of Community and Partnerships

38:23 Flash Four: Quick Insights with Rai Barnard

41:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Actionable Takeaways with Practical Tips

Leverage Social Media Authentically
- Takeaway: Rai emphasized using platforms like Instagram not just for promotion but for community connection.
- Practical Tip: Share works-in-progress, behind-the-scenes stories, or short reflections instead of only polished final products. This builds genuine engagement.
Build Local + Global Artistic Networks
- Takeaway: Rai spoke about the value of community ties in different places.
- Practical Tip: Attend local performances and join online dance/arts forums. Nurture both your immediate community and extended networks to expand opportunities.
Sustainability Through Collaboration
- Takeaway: Partnerships open doors to resources and new audiences.
- Practical Tip: Seek at least one cross-disciplinary collaboration per year (e.g., with a musician, visual artist, or filmmaker) to diversify your creative practice and funding possibilities.

Bio

Rai Barnard (they/them) is a queer Dallas-based choreographer/performer invested in crafting insightful contemporary dance works, grounded in lived experience.

Their training began with competitive dance before earning degrees in Dance and Biology from UT Dallas in 2021. They expanded their training through opportunities with Orlando Ballet School, Sidra Bell Dance NY, Keith Clark, Ami Shulman, Lukas Malkowski, and Marijke Eliasberg.

Rai has created and performed original choreography throughout North Texas, including opportunities with Arts Mission Oak Cliff (2022 artist-in-residence), {254} Dance Fest, Agora Artists, Garage Arts Project, and more.