Meet Kimberly Schafer | Director/Choreographer/Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimberly Schafer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimberly, how do you think about risk?
My beliefs on risk is that you only live once so you have to take them. I have chosen one of the riskiest and unstable careers being a Director/Choreographer in the Theatre/Dance World. However, I would rather take the risks and try to succeed in a path I love rather than settling for something that doesn’t fulfill me in life. I have definitely had some ups and downs especially during the pandemic, but overall the benefits outweigh the negatives.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Ever since I was a child, I have loved to dance and knew it was going to be apart of my life forever. As I got older, I turned to a path in Musical Theatre with an emphasis in Dance. I graduated with a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Dance Performance from Oklahoma City University, and a Masters in Theatre Education from the Catholic University of America. I started my career as a performer from the NY stages, to National tours, and regional theatres across America. Later on, I transitioned into the creative team side as a Director/Choreographer. I have had the honor and privilege to work side by side with legends such as Tommy Tune, Andre DeShields, Randy Skinner, and Chita Rivera. Currently, I am an Adjunct Professor at Marymount Manhattan College, and CAP 21 Conservatory in NYC. In addition, I serve as a Director for Celebrity Cruise lines that is based out of Miami. That is a quick overview of what I have done. My proudest accomplishment is becoming Tommy Tune’s Dance Assistant for several shows including “Lady Be Good” at City Center and a tribute to the President which was at Ford’s Theatre in DC.
How did I get to where I am today… with hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It was definitely not an easy road but you fight for things you love.

For me, I want to share the love and knowledge of the arts with people around me, because I believe that it will make you a more well rounded human being.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well in Miami, my favorite area is Wynwood, because of the art and culture that surrounds it. I love all of the murals and art work in that area…it creates excitement and beauty. Plus this area has wonderful food and drink options… I love beer so the Dogfish Head Brewery is a must.

As for NYC, I am partial, because the theatre district is my favorite. My ideal night would be to go eat at a restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen and then go see a Broadway show…right now that would be A Strange Loop, Into the Woods or MJ the musical. Then finish the night off with drinks at Dutch Fred;s.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate this to my parents especially my mother. Throughout my journey, she has always and is still the most supportive, caring, and understanding of my career. She recognizes what makes me happy and why I need it in my life.

Website: kimberlyschafer.com

Instagram: @kimmiediva

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-schafer-57019b7/