Meet the Choreographer: Kristine

In a production like Rudolph, a huge part of the magic that brings the show to life is in the music and movement. Up next in our Rudolph Team Member Spotlight series, we introduce Kristine, who is the talented choreographer who is helping to bring the heartwarming story of Rudolph to life through dance. Read on to learn more about Kristine and the magic she helps bring to the stage behind the scenes.

Q: Where were you born and raised?

A: Thornton, Colorado

Q: What is a fun fact about you?

A: During my college years, I spent one summer living and training in dance in New York City.

Q: What are some of your hobbies outside of theater?

A: I absolutely love to bake! Sweets are my love language! I have been getting more into cooking lately, as well.

Q: Where do you work outside of the theater?

A: Besides choreographing for MMT, I am a performer myself! I have worked at a few different theater companies in the Denver area. I also teach and substitute dance at dance studios all around the Denver area. But right now, I'm mostly a stay at home mom to my wonderful little toddler.

Q: When and how did you first get involved with choreography and dance in theater?

A: I grew up dancing at a competition dance studio. I pursued a dance degree at a college that was more music theater-based in its training. Afterward, I started teaching dance and performing in musicals and eventually choregraphing felt like the next step for me.

Q: What are some of the shows you have been involved with in the past?

A: I have choreographed a lot of shows for MMT including Big Fish, The Addams Family, Newsies, and Matilda, just to name a few.

Q: How did you become involved with MMT?

A: Through an invite from Melody Founder Chelsey, I choreographed one of the first music theater camps that MMT held!

Q: What is your favorite show you have ever been part of? Why?

A: One of my favorite shows that I have choreographed was Young Frankenstein at the Longmont Theatre Company, because it was such a silly show and one of my first times choreographing theater for adults. My favorite show that I have performed in was Bullets over Broadway. It had a variety of dance styles and was a great experience.

Q: How would you describe your choreographic style or approach?

A: First, I like to read and understand the show. Then I listen to the songs to get a feel for the style. I pay attention to if there are certain accents and if there is a written dance break or if there are vocals throughout. Then, I play the song and start moving. Usually it begins as an improvisational movement, trying again and again until something feels like the right fit. Occasionally I'll have a specific movement idea I try to incorporate. I also like to adapt the choreography to the actors. I think it is important for the movement to feel right on their body - what comes natural to me may not come naturally to them, so I am open to constructive input from actors.

Q: What is something the audience might not realize about the work that goes into choreographing a show?

A: A lot of listening to a song over and over, and rewinding and restarting and repeating. But also a lot of coordinating with the director. We have to monitor where someone ended a scene, what side of the stage they ended on, if they have a quick change, and what character they are in each particular scene (since often actors play multiple characters).

Q: Do you have a dream show you'd like to work for/perform in?

A: I have always loved the dancing in West Side Story. I would love to be involved in a production of that. Plus as a dancer, a chorus line is on my bucket list!

Q: What excites you most about working on this show or what is your favorite part of this show?

A: I am excited to work with a creative team that is new to MMT - I think they will bring new perspectives and ideas.

With an eye for detail and a deep understanding of storytelling through movement, Kristine is helping this production become something very special! Her passion and dedication are felt throughout, and we are so lucky to have her as part of our team!

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