Multi-award winning choreographer Marguerite Derricks visited Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) on Wednesday, Oct. 16, to share her experience and give advice to a group of aspiring young student dancers during her energetic masterclass.
Derricks is a revered choreographer and the only person to earn three consecutive Emmy Awards for outstanding choreography. She has lent a hand to numerous films (“Austin Powers,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Little Miss Sunshine”) and television shows (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Westworld,” “Glow”) and has created some of the most memorable dance sequences in the entertainment industry. Her visit to OCSA is part of the 2019-2020 annual Master Artist Series, where she led the students through a set of her own choreography and provided an in-depth Q&A session. Derricks observed the young dancers with a keen eye, impressed with how quickly and adeptly the students brought her choreography to life as she taught them the intricate movements.
Though Derricks said she was inspired by the level of raw talent on display, she also emphasized that making a name for yourself in the dance industry takes more than just skill. During the Q&A portion of the class, Derricks laid out three essential tips for paving a path toward success in this competitive field.
Tip #1: Work Your Way Up to the Top
Derricks began the Q&A by talking about her own journey and how it led her to the esteemed position she finds herself in now. She said that in order to get to the top, especially as a choreographer, you have to put in time building your skills as an assistant and teacher first.
“I was an assistant for Otis Sallid and Debbie Allen before I started to choreograph and I learned so much from them,” Derricks said. “I wouldn’t be here today doing what I’m doing if it wasn’t for that time I had as an assistant.”
Working as an assistant allows aspiring dancers or choreographers to learn about the industry, build up contacts and prove they have what it takes. Derricks said she sees a lot of choreographers come and go quickly, and skipping these important milestones can be a recipe for disaster.
Tip #2: Learn How to be Business Savvy
Another piece of advice Derricks had for the students was to make sure they understand the business side of being in the dance world. Having talent is one thing, but knowing how to market yourself and create a foundation for fiscal success is equally as valuable.
“You want to build your clientele; make connections with producers, directors and actors because they are the ones that are going to give you jobs over and over again,” said Derricks. “You’re not just artists, what you are doing is your business.”
Derricks said she is a smart, strong business woman and has not only embraced that aspect of her career, but loves doing it. During the Q&A, she placed a lot of importance on achieving success by being a well-rounded individual, and that includes knowing how to manage your talents and incorporate them into a smart business model.
Tip #3: Build Your Confidence and Know Your Strengths
This one may seem a bit more obvious, but is no less crucial to finding success. Derricks talked about how life is filled with twists and turns and won’t always work out the way you expect. To overcome challenges and deal with uncertainty, finding confidence in yourself and your abilities is of the utmost importance.
“I believe in manifestation,” said Derricks. “If you really believe in something and manifest it and put it out there, it will come to you.”
Confidence isn’t always easy to maintain, though, and Derricks shared a few suggestions for how to build it up while simultaneously expanding your skillset. First, she said it’s important to highlight the things you are good at and work on what needs improvement. She also said to seek out other abilities and talents. The more skills you master, the more you broaden your world to new opportunities. Finally, Derricks mentioned how establishing a sense of control over your thoughts and focusing on the good instead of the bad is another great way to boost confidence.
“When I put the time in and do something good, I celebrate it in my mind,” Derricks said. “Confidence comes because you choose to be confident.”
OCSA’s Master Artist Series has only just begun for the 2019-2020 season, and plenty more seasoned professionals, including renowned choreographer Ray Leeper and Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist Diane Schuur, are scheduled to visit OCSA’s campus to share their expertise in the coming months. To make a donation to this awe-inspiring program, visit our Giving Opportunities page.