Sep 29, 2020
This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT,
Aleksandra interviews LaMar Baylor, an award-winning dancer and Broadway performer
who is also a Board Member and Cultural Ambassador for
MindLeaps. LaMar holds a BFA from The University of the
Arts and recently completed his Master of Science in Arts
Administration from Drexel University. As mentioned, he is a
performer with Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway and is an alumnus of Philadanco,
the Eleone Dance Theater, and the Rebecca Davis Dance
Company.
Baylor, who himself was a “renaissance man” in
high school before finding his niche, is a firm believer that dance
equips its artists with the physical, mental, and emotional skills
to tackle any of the world’s challenges. To LaMar, this fact
explains why dance has been so transformative for individuals in
the MindLeaps program, which takes dance to vulnerable populations
internationally. On the podcast, LaMar recounts lessons he’s
learned in his career and expands on the importance of the arts in
our world, particularly in 2020.
Moving Quotes:
“I’m a firm believer that if you are a dancer, you can do anything."
“I’ve never come across a person who has stepped into the theater and not been touched in some way, shape, or form … Our job as artists is to impact others’ lives."
“There’s a saying that says, ‘Earth with no art is eh.’"
“There’s nothing like being able to fully express yourself. We’re seeing that across the country right now. The arts is my protest. It is my ability to say what I want to say in whatever capacity."
“There are so many opportunities and windows that dance actually affords people. I don’t know if everyone is aware, but they are out there. In trying to find your purpose, see where your passion and interest lies the most. Then do your research."
Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:37: LaMar discusses his eager anticipation to return to the stage after the COVID-19 virus subsides and the overall importance of the arts.
7:46: LaMar explains the importance of live performances in a day and age where anything can be accessed from a phone, tablet, or TV.
13:17: Baylor reflects on his experience on Broadway and how The Lion King has been such a moving experience for him.
16:27: LaMar describes his role in The Lion King as a “swing” and how the fluid nature of his role is “like a roller coaster.”
18:18: Baylor retells his journey from youth to Broadway and emphasizes the importance of doing research up front and finding your passion.
22:51: Aleksandra and LaMar dialogue around lessons LaMar learned in his upbringing and, specifically, around the importance of being open to all opportunities as they arise.
29:59: Baylor speaks to the importance of money management as an artist and why artists are so prone to avoid issues dealing with money.
32:26: Baylor discusses his involvement with the organization MindLeaps and his first exposure to a third-world culture, far unlike anything he’d experienced in the US.
38:42: LaMar explains why he believes the MindLeaps program is so powerful in transforming the lives of youth around the globe.
Bullet List of Resources –
LaMar Baylor
MindLeaps