Industry
I never forget my teachers. From a young age, I have depended on them for much more than the curriculum. Unbeknownst to them, I held on to their words for years after graduation- especially if they spoke about how to get work. While the content of college courses are often intellectually nurturing, any guidance on how to pursue a career in the arts is at best absent and at worst a woeful warning. As a student, I thought, maybe there isn't enough space for me? Maybe I'm a fool?
However, when you have the desire to be a dancer, you don't have a choice. To abandon this part of yourself, is to face torment. A career in the arts takes time, risk, and considerable sacrifice. And the naysayers are countless. While I agree with my professors, who taught me to have realistic expectations, the only true failure is abandoning your true calling.
I have had many talks with Joelle Cosentino about the plight of being a creative and the obstacles we face as female artists. In a world with such intimidating talent, and in a culture so saturated with body obsession and immediate results, Joelle knows that real artists must create their own success. There are abundant opportunities, as long as you keep working. A beautiful dancer, a genius choreographer, and a graduate from one of the best colleges in the nation, Joelle knows how crucial it is to make the right decisions when it comes your art.
If dance is something you love, it is not your privilege, but your duty to pursue it. However, you will need support along the way. Joelle Cosentino has been blessed with incredible talent, and years of consistent success. She understands the business. And her greatest joy comes from passing on what she has learned to female artists. If I had had a mentor like Joelle when I was in college, I might not have wasted three years in a job I hated before I finally started pursuing what I love again.
Maggie Light
Writer, Dancer
University of Virginia, BA in Theater
Otis College of Art & Design, MFA in Writing
Adjunct Faculty at Otis College
Joelle Cosentino has been a huge inspiration to me and has truly played a tremendous role in my decision to pursue a career in dance. I first met Joelle when she came to choreograph for my dance team at UCLA. For the three years that I was on the team, she choreographed the most innovative routines that were always crowd favorites. Not only did she choreograph for us, she also educated us about potential jobs in the dance world as we neared the end of our college careers. Being more interested in this career path than the other girls on my team, I sat and talked more closely with Joelle. She was always so generous with her time and gave me so many great ideas and advice on how to pursue my dancing dreams. From Joelle’s expert advice, I was then able to branch off and establish myself as a dancer/teacher/choreographer. I currently direct an award winning studio dance company in Los Angeles, I dance in a contemporary/aerial dance company, and I choreograph for high schools throughout southern California. I feel very successful in my career and am so thankful to be doing something that I am so passionate about. I can attribute a lot of my success to the knowledge and motivation that I received from Joelle. She instilled me with a confidence to pursue a dream that is often lost after college is over.
-Brette Markowitz, Choreographer
I am a chemical engineering graduate from MIT and work in the oil business as an international oil trader. I celebrate the arts and offer my time and energy often to the dance world. I am the Chairman of the Board of Complexions Contemporary Ballet, which celebrates it's 15th anniversary this coming year, and also serve on the Board of Directors at the Joyce Theatre, a major venue for dance in NYC.
My association with dance began through my dancing maniac daughters! Both lept and turned competitively for virtually their entire childhoods, bringing home a plethora of platinums, golds, high silvers, ribbons and the occasional champion's jacket and trophy. My youngest danced as Clara in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular at the age of 13 and was also voted as Dancer of the Year in Capezio's national talent search.
Unfortunately, there are woefully few resources available to dancers considering a career beyond Showstoppers, Starpower or perhaps an awesome cast member part in Billy Elliot. The choice of a professional dance career augmented by continued dedication and study at the college level warrants careful consideration.
Joelle Cosentino has lived the life of my daughters and upon graduation from UCLA has choreographed her way to the top of the dance competition world, not to mention performed in an impressive array of work spanning NYC to Los Angeles. She brings with her a comprehensive understanding of what pursuit of a dance career means, and connections across the entire dance landscape. Most importantly, Joelle carries in her heart an enthusiasm and passion for helping others achieve their dance dreams. She understands that hours en pointe need to be supplemented with time talking with dance professionals about the pagentry and pitfalls in choosing a career in dance. I am honored to recommend Joelle for her passion and commitment in expanding the landscape of necessary resources available to the best athletes on earth -- dancers, especially for those at the junction of professional pursuit.
-Jerry Appelstein, Chairman of the Board COMPLEXIONS Dance Company
I have known Joelle Cosentino since we were babies. I have watched her dance all her life. Not only can I attest to Joelle's outstanding talent in dance, but I can also attest to her exceptional character and leadership abilities. I believe that Joelle's program for dancers who are preparing for college is ingenious and will satisfy a very profound need in today's society. As a developmental psychologist, I have studied the importance of the adolescent and young adulthood years to one's ultimate identity formation. As a university professor, I have worked with countless young women of this age. I know how life outside the classroom affects performance within the classroom, and I believe that those who have confidence and strengths in all of their abilities—not just those academic—bring to life a set of skills and well-roundedness that is invaluable. I therefore wholeheartedly believe that attending Joelle's college preparatory program will do wonders for young women considering a future that includes dance.
-Cara J. DiYanni, Ph.D.
I had the pleasure of working with Joelle on an international dance and music production tour. Through all moments of stress and pressure Joelle shined through as a constant ray of positive energy and a steeple of strength. Joelle found the creative and unique in all aspects of our journey and was a powerful member of the company mentoring and inspiring us all. Joelle is not only a leader but someone who can support and mentor creative artists at all stages in their life. I wish I had this program when I was starting out!
-Erin Dwyer, Principal Dancer (blue13 dance company)
Joelle Cosentino and I met on the set of a movie she was choreographing in which I was starring early in my career. She was professional, incredibly sweet, and a kick-butt choreographer! Since then Joelle has been there for me with any questions I have ever had and has been a great help and supporter as she is a knowledgeable veteran in the business. Thus, I have been in films such as New Line Cinema's: "Raise Your Voice" and Overture's: "Frat Party" (slated to hit theaters soon) and was signed to Epic Sony as a recording artist (have opened for acts such as Britney Spears and NSYNC) all while attaining my degree at UCLA. As an artist, I respect her for her professionalism and her skill, but ultimately for her passion for what she does. She is trustworthy and a good friend!
-Lauren Mayhew (Actress, Singer)
Joelle Cosentino played a key role in where I am in my dance career today. Joelle and I knew of each other in NYC, but it wasn't until LA that we were back in touch. I had been working at Fred Segal Beauty and was talking to the owner about my dance career in LA. Having been new to LA I was still trying to get my bearings and most importantly get an agent- and not just any agent, I wanted to sign with one agency in particular. My boss offered to ask his friend Joelle to grab a coffee with me and give me some guidance since she knew the ropes. Without hesitation, Joelle agreed to meet with me and so graciously gave me advice and put me in touch with the agency I desired. It could seem like a simple thing, but in an industry and a city where people tend to view each other as competition rather than reach out a lending hand, this made Joelle stand out as someone who wanted to help others reach what she had attained. Within weeks I signed with this agency and the rest is history.
When I was growing up I dreamt of dancing professionally but there weren't any resources available to understand the industry and what it took to make it. I took college prep courses that taught me how to write college admission essays and speed read but there was nothing available to me that focused on dance. What Joelle is offering is so unique and essential for young dancers. After all the hours and money put into training it is imperative to take the next step to make your dream a reality. Joelle helped me along my way and is destined to do the same for many other dancers.
-Reyna Godoy (Los Angeles, CA)
Parents
Joelle Cosentino has been instrumental in my daughter's life both as a dance teacher/choreographer and on a more personal note, as a mentor. Joelle is a graduate of UCLA and has grown to be an amazing a dancer, choreographer, teacher and friend.
She taught Blake for 3 years at our studio in Southern California and was her choreographer both for several large groups and one of Blake's solos. She has always encouraged Blake to reach beyond and to strive to be better in all areas of her life. Her choreography has pushed Blake to dance in ways that were not always comfortable but ALWAYS made her technically and emotionally stronger. She teaches in an honest open manner that encourages love, respect, and amazing growth in teenagers. I cannot say enough about Joelle both as a person, a dance teacher, or as a friend. One is truly blessed to have her in their lives.
Leslie Gaylord (Long Beach, CA)
I met Joelle years ago and at the time, she was a writer in Los Angeles. As a mother of 3 children, I was completely overwhelmed with college admissions and essays and everything else for my daughter Alyssa. Joelle offered to help her with her personal statement. It was wonderful for me because it took some of the pressure off. Honestly, it was a completely stressful time.
My daughter was accepted to Wesleyan (her first choice) and loved her first year of college. It was hard for me as a mother to see her go cross-country, but Joelle assured me that it often makes children more appreciative of where they came from. This proved to be true. Joelle continued to be a force in my daughter's life- I once called her and said, "Alyssa is homesick!" and Joelle said, "Tell her to come over!" I had forgotten Joelle was splitting time between LA and NYC. It was a God-send as my daughter went straight over to her apartment.
I guess what I am saying is... Joelle was a great mentor/role model for my daughter. She even helped her land her summer internship. Now, the help and mentoring my daughter received will now be available to other young artists throughout the country. How wonderful!
-Arleen Milian (Los Angeles, CA)
Joelle Cosentino has been an inspiration in my twin dancer girls' lives- and a program such as this is amazing as it not only helps direct dancers towards the important goal of college, but it helps them get there. We've known Joelle for many years. She is a role model to my girls as she is not only a working dancer/choreographer, but she's a genuinely good hearted person who cares about kids. (We also went to her showcase at Smashbox and it was amazing.) It is a privilege when you have Joelle in your kids' dancing world. I would definitely recommend her to anyone who wants to further their dance experience and will absolutely participate in the program when my girls are getting ready for college.
-Shelley Conn (Los Angeles, CA)
Joelle Cosentino is a beautiful person. She is intelligent, sensitive, caring, giving and savvy!! She's an incredible well-read dancer/choreographer who comprehends 'Physics' as well as the 'Arts'. Joelle is also very well traveled. I met Joelle through my sixteen year old daughter. Joelle is a wonderful teacher/choreographer/confidant for Shannon. She encourages high academics, character, honesty, diligence, and happiness in her students. I would highly recommend Joelle Cosentino, as well as her program.
-Sharon Willard (Irvine, California)
Joelle's ability to bring out the best in each dancer is amazing. My daughter Alexandra was initially shy and insecure-Joelle worked with her and helped build her confidence and self esteem! Her compassion for the kids and her tremendous talent make her an inspiration to everyone that is around her!
Anytime Alexandra has the opportunity to work with Joelle, we jump at the chance as she is truly one of the main reasons that Alexandra now has a true passion for dance! She has brought out the best in her-not only in her technique and expertise, but in her love of the art form.
-Shelly Ince Freed (Scottsdale, AZ)
Students
Joelle has served as a huge inspiration for my success as both a student and a dancer. As a dancer, she pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me to reach goals I had never dreamed possible. That "never give up" attitude transcended into my studies and helped me remain motivated while pursuing my degree in biochemistry. Now, as I work towards my Ph.D., I am continually thankful for the values of hard work and dedication that Joelle helped instill in me through the years. Her genuine concern for my best interests helped to shape my future and solidify my ability to achieve anything I desire.
-Amanda Smith (student, NYU School of Medicine)
I have been a dancer/student in NYC for the last three years. I have studied with many instructors and I can easily say that Joelle Cosentino has been one of the most influential instructors I have studied under. Her class not only focused on technique and the proper execution of the given steps, she also pushed us to find ourselves as artists in the process. Her classes push you to the edge and then a little further. Joelle's instruction has helped me not only as a dancer but as an artist emphasizing that what we do is art and should be looked at as nothing less.
-Ian Klein (student, Marymount Manhattan University)
I have been dancing since the tender age of 2, and never have I encountered a more inspiring, dedicated, talented, and loving mentor than Joelle Cosentino. I was first introduced to her at age 8 when she came to Arizona to choreograph a competition jazz routine for my dance studio. I was instantly captivated by her enthusiasm and unique perspective on the art of dance and yearned each year for her return. As I grew older, I found dance to be a burning passion of mine and knew that I would pursue it infinitely. Now as a member of the University of Michigan Dance team, I credit much of my success to Joelle's encouragement and constructive criticism; for without her I would not be where I am today. Dance has changed my life forever- my college experience would be nowhere near as rewarding without it, and I am so grateful for the opportunities it has provided for me throughout my life. Joelle Cosentino bestows an inimitable wisdom and guidance for all her students that is unparalleled.
-Corey Allan (student, University of Michigan, Pre-Med)
I've had the honor and privilege to work with Joelle Cosentino- she was not only a wonderful teacher who taught me the proper technique necessary to become a professional dancer, but also guided me on how to become a professional dancer and allowed me to see how much I love to dance. With Joelle sharing her passion towards dance and knowledge with me, I have had a great start with my career. Since the time I've worked with her I've performed as a guest artist for ballet companies; performed at the International Miami Ballet Festival receiving the award Youth International Young Medal Winner; filmed the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, which won an Emmy and an American Choreography Award; filmed the feature, FAME, coming out this Septemer; and am currently working with Cirque Du Soleil in Las Vegas on a brand new project. I'd like to thank Joelle Cosentino for her support and for giving me the knowledge I needed to make it in the real world.
-Bobby Amamizu (Las Vegas, NV)
I have been dancing all my life and have been fortunate enough to learn from the best- from sharing a stage with Gregory Hines to spending several years under the mentoring talent of Joelle Cosentino, being in the dance world taught me discipline, work ethic, dedication, and teamwork. I was very fortunate to have trained technically with Joelle, but benefited most from her encouragement of my abilities and her determination to push me to "the next level." We all benefited from Joelle's resources, as I am now aspiring to work in the public relations aspect of fashion. Even though I am a Political Science major at the University of Californfia, Santa Barbara, the love of dance has been instilled in me and remains a powerful part of my life. I am grateful I had the support of Joelle in and out of the classroom and have learned that my life can become anything I want it to be.
-Melda Guvenc (UCSB)
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