American Spectacle Podcast: Dance, Culture, and American Movement

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American Spectacle Podcast explores the rise—and reckoning—of America’s global influence in the performing arts, with a sharp focus on dance. From the jazz age to today’s shifting cultural landscape, host Thomas K. Flagg engages in candid conversations with leading voices in the field, including Alexandra Wells (former head of Juilliard Ballet), acclaimed choreographer Jamal Story, and world-renowned hip hop artist Raphael Xavier. Where have we come from—and where are we headed?

Guests include celebrated artists and educators such as Bill Shipley, Jamal Story, Peter Chu, Elka Samuels Smith, and Alexandra Wells — each offering a unique perspective on the shifting landscape of American movement culture.

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Marcus Smith on Community Revitalization Through Arts and Leadership

Marcus Smith joins Thomas King Flagg to discuss how arts programming can strengthen communities, support young people, and create real local economic and cultural momentum

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Michelle Audet on Building Dance Audiences Through Education

Michelle Audet joins Thomas King Flagg for a conversation about what actually builds the future of dance: education, producing, and intentional audience development.

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Peter Chu on Finding the Rhythm Within (Dance & Leadership)

Choreographer and director Peter Chu joins host Thomas King Flagg for a conversation about craft, identity, and why dance education should be accessible to every child.

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Rafael Xavier on Breaking, Storytelling, and Mentorship

Rafael Xavier joins Thomas King Flagg for a conversation on breaking, creativity, and what it takes to build a durable artistic life.

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Ruthie Rosenfeld on Preserving American Dance History and Legacy

Ruthie Rosenfeld joins Thomas King Flagg to discuss American dance legacy, archival responsibility, and the importance of preserving artistic history before it disappears.

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Shaun Taylor-Corbett on Broadway, Indigenous Storytelling, and Dance

Shaun Taylor-Corbett joins Thomas King Flagg to discuss performance craft, cultural identity, and how dance can carry Indigenous stories into mainstream theater spaces.