We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ghislaine Van Den Heuvel a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Ghislaine thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

One of the most significant projects in my career has been my work with Martha Graham’s Second Company. Performing in major productions within the Graham organization was a defining moment, deepening my connection to Martha Graham’s legacy and broadening my artistic horizons as a dancer.

A standout experience was dancing the principal role in the iconic piece “Chronicle – Prelude to Action.” Created in 1936, “Chronicle” still carries a potent message that resonates in today’s world. This performance underscored the importance of letting the story guide my movements. Performing this lead role, I remained on stage for the entire piece, which was so powerful. This project has been both an eye-opener and transformative, showcasing the profound impact of Martha Graham’s work on my artistry.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

From my first dance classes at the age of 8, I knew dance was destined to be a lifelong passion. Growing up in Maastricht, the Netherlands, my early connection with dance was profound. At 12, I was accepted into a pre-education dance program, which set the stage for my dream to become a professional dancer.

Fast forward to today, my career has been marked by significant professional achievements, all of which I am deeply grateful for. For three years, I have been a member of the Martha Graham Second Company in New York, which has allowed me to deeply engage with and perform the iconic Graham repertoire. In that time, I’ve also collaborated with guest-choreographers like Yoshito Sakuraba and Bradley Shelver.

My current role as a company artist with Tabula Rasa Dance Theatre as well as my work with Dance Spotlight have expanded my artistic horizons, showcasing my versatility across a diverse range of styles from avant-garde to classical. This year, I also performed with Random Access Music, and had the pleasure of collaborating with renowned choreographer Jesse Obremski, whose innovative works inspire and challenge me. Each of these experiences have deeply enriched my artistic perspective.

In addition to performing, I serve as a faculty member at the Martha Graham School in New York, where I teach and mentor aspiring dancers. This role allows me to share the rich traditions of the Graham technique while also encouraging new creative explorations. Balancing performance with education enables me to contribute meaningfully to the dance community, fostering the next generation of dancers and hopefully instilling in them the same passion and love I have for this art form.

I am particularly proud of my involvement in productions that have pushed the boundaries of contemporary dance and received critical acclaim for their creativity and emotional resonance with audiences. My work is not just about technical proficiency; it is about conveying emotion, telling stories, and creating transformative experiences for audiences.
Another defining aspect of my career is simply a profound love and passion for this art form. My deep connection with dance fuels my creativity and drives me to continually explore its limitless possibilities.

Through my work, I aim to inspire and connect with audiences, students, and collaborators. I want anyone who sees me dance to know that my career is driven by a deep passion for this art form. Whether on stage, teaching future dancers in the studio, or collaborating with groundbreaking choreographers in rehearsals, I strive to infuse every endeavor with a profound love for the art of dance.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to inspire and connect with audiences on an emotional level. Through my performances, I aim to evoke a range of reactions, from joy to introspection, creating memorable experiences for those who watch. Additionally, the opportunity to teach and mentor the next generation of dancers is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing young dancers grow, develop their skills, and share in the passion I have for dance brings me immense joy. It’s a privilege to contribute to their journey and to know that I am playing a part in shaping the future of dance.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a mission to inspire and uplift through the power of dance. I strive to create performances that not only entertain but also provoke thought and emotion, encouraging audiences to see the world from new perspectives. I want to foster a deep appreciation for the arts in other people, and to nurture the next generation of dancers. By sharing my passion and expertise, I aim to empower young artists to pursue their dreams and to cultivate their own unique voices. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting impact on the world of dance, one that celebrates creativity, resilience, and the transformative power of expression.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ghislaineheuvel/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ghislaine-van-den-heuvel-92b482222/

Image Credits

By: Petra Teeuwsen
Yejin Lee
Jaqlin Medlock Photography