What a Broadway Choreographer Taught Students That You Can Use Too

Julia Wagner · 2026-05-22

When a Broadway veteran walks into a college dance studio, you know something special is about to happen. That's exactly what went down when Jon Rua, a choreographer and performer with serious credits (think "Hamilton" and "In the Heights"), stopped by Elon University's Music Theatre program. And honestly, what he shared isn't just for students—it's gold for any dance studio owner, choreographer, or class instructor looking to level up their craft. ### The Power of Real-World Experience Jon Rua didn't just talk about dance. He brought the energy of a Broadway rehearsal room right into that studio. For dance professionals, this is a huge reminder: your students crave authenticity. They don't want cookie-cutter routines. They want to feel what it's like to work with someone who's been in the trenches, who knows how to build a number from scratch under pressure. As a choreographer yourself, think about how you can inject that same intensity into your classes. Maybe it's sharing a story from a recent gig or teaching a combo that mirrors a professional audition. The point is, real-world context makes every step more meaningful. ### Breaking Down the Craft Rua focused on more than just steps. He emphasized storytelling through movement. For dance studio owners, this is a lesson in curriculum design. Are your classes just about technique, or are you teaching students how to express emotion and narrative? That's what separates a good dancer from a great performer. - **Intentionality:** Every gesture should mean something. Teach your students to ask "why" before they move. - **Musicality:** Rua likely stressed how to hit accents and breathe with the music. This is a skill that takes practice but transforms a routine. - **Collaboration:** Broadway shows are built by ensembles. Encourage your dancers to listen and react to each other, not just follow counts. ### What This Means for Your Studio You don't need a Broadway star to visit your studio to make an impact. You just need to adopt that same mindset. Here are a few takeaways you can use starting tomorrow: - **Invite guest artists:** Even a virtual masterclass can shake things up and inspire your students. - **Focus on performance quality:** Spend 10 minutes of each class on facial expressions and stage presence. - **Create a professional environment:** Treat rehearsals like a real gig. Set expectations high, and your dancers will rise to meet them. ### Building Community Through Dance One of the coolest parts of Rua's visit was the connection he built with the students. He wasn't just a distant celebrity. He was a mentor who genuinely cared. For dance choreographers and studio owners, this is the ultimate goal. You want your students to feel seen, challenged, and supported. When you foster that kind of environment, retention goes up. Students stick around because they feel like they're part of something bigger. They're not just learning choreography—they're becoming part of a community that values growth and artistry. ### Final Thoughts Whether you're running a small local studio or choreographing for a competition team, the lessons from Jon Rua's visit are universal. Keep pushing for excellence, but never forget the human connection. That's what makes dance powerful. If you're looking to bring that same energy into your classes, start by evaluating your current approach. Are you inspiring your dancers to tell stories? Are you giving them real-world skills? The answers might surprise you.