Testimonials

Angela Palladini: The Associate Development Series, fiercely created and led by Ali Solomon, was hands down one of the most influential and inspiring programs I’ve ever been a part of. The plethora of expertise from such well-established, intelligent, kind, talented, and wise artists/humans was absolutely invaluable. I cannot recommend this program more. Thank you, Ali, for creating such a special program to experience, share, and learn, and get excited about all things creative amongst fellow aspiring associates!

Ramita Ravi: Thank you again for doing this! This program fills a much needed gap when it comes to understanding the associate world - what it means, how to get into it, how to add value on the job, and so much more. Ali created such a welcoming environment for us to ask questions, connect with industry veterans, and practice associate skills in real-time. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to learn more about this part of the industry!

Courtney Darlington: I found the Associate Development Series, curated and led by Alison Solomon, to be extremely informative and inspiring especially at this point in my creative career. I loved how much she valued bringing in different working Choreographers and Associates with the intent of highlighting various experiences. That was a key takeaway for me, that there is no one way of being an associate, but being professional and being prepared is always warranted. I also loved how hands-on this class series was. Ali provided us with many different scenarios to try to simulate all that associates may face in a creative process. I left feeling like I had a toolbox to enter the professional realm with. If you’re curious at all about being an associate or if you already are one and are looking to further hone your skills, get into this series!!!

Sarah Juliet Shaw: Alison Solomon’s Associate Development Series is truly a one-of-a-kind program. It not only breaks down the ins and outs of being an associate choreographer, but also equips you with the practical skills necessary to apply the knowledge you’re learning. I actually used many of the tools we practiced during the workshop on a choreography job immediately after finishing the program, which speaks volumes about how relevant and valuable they are. Beyond preparing you to be an associate, the skills are also applicable to being a choreographer, a dance captain, a swing, or a proactive ensemble member in any rehearsal process. I can’t recommend this program enough for any dancer who might be interested in the other side of the table or is just looking to expand their network and skillset as a dancer!

Laura Sky Herman: ​​Getting an inside look at five associates’ experiences in just eight hours fast-tracked my understanding of this unique and often unseen pathway. The on-your-feet exercises sparked my creativity in new and welcome ways, and connecting with fellow workshop participants was an unexpected bonus. This series is an invaluable resource—not just for those curious about what lies behind the table, but for dancers more broadly. Learning choreography in this “pre-pro” setting helped me let go of the undue pressure I often place on myself in class and auditions. As a result, I actually picked up choreography more quickly in an open class that same evening. It was wonderful to reconnect with this side of my artistry, and I’m excited to carry this experience with me into future adventures.

Ian Saunders: During the workshop not only was the definition of what an associate made clear for me; the job and duties as well as the mindset of what is required of an Associate was made much more clear.  The testimonials of current associates and their experiences brought so much value that when we had to apply that to certain scenarios, it felt like we had been given the tools and also the freedom to explore in real time.  After the workshop, not only did my dancing improve in retention, but my exploration in the choreographers' parameters and understanding their direction was accessed.  This workshop has been the most important and the most freeing for me as a dancer. I implore all dancers to take a chance and learn from Alison and her guests.