Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Marie Johnson.
Hi Kristin Marie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My professional path has taken me in many directions, but what drives me is consistent. I am passionate about the performing arts, staying active, music, travel, and personal growth. I grew up in Central Florida, actively dancing and singing since childhood. While attending Lake Brantley High School, I performed in musicals and fell in love with theatre. I enjoyed the creative process, camaraderie of the cast, and connecting with the audience through storytelling. I continued to study theatre and dance in college, graduating with my BA in Theatre from Florida State University.
After graduating, I performed in the “Beauty and the Beast” show at Disney’s MGM Studios (Hollywood Studios). During my years at Disney, I would occasionally fly to NYC to audition for musicals. After an intense auditioning process, I was chosen to be a Radio City Rockette. I was elated! That fall I moved to New York to perform in the “Radio City Christmas Spectacular”. My Broadway dreams came true when I became an original cast member of “Young Frankenstein” the musical. I was a swing and Dance Captain for Tony Award winning Director/Choreographer Susan Stroman and the legendary Mel Brooks. I was in musical comedy heaven! To witness these creative minds at work was an incredible experience. Other theatre credits include the National Tours of “42nd St.” and “Young Frankenstein”, and “The Producers” at the Hollywood Bowl.
After touring, I moved to Los Angeles to study Pilates and be closer to my brother (drummer & multimedia producer). Splitting my time between dancing and Pilates, I taught private sessions and group classes at various studios and homes around LA. The fitness scene in California was an amazing place to learn from other instructors in all movement disciplines. Movement will always be a part of my life, and I enjoy sharing my knowledge and passion with others. In entertainment, I had the privilege of working for Emmy winner Kathryn Burns, Michael Rooney, Bill Burns, and other brilliant creatives. Highlights include “The Morning Show” on Apple TV+ , the Emmy winning “AFI Awards honoring Mel Brooks”, and tapping with “The Honey Taps”. I even had the opportunity to choreograph for the musical trio “The Silverlake Sisters”, aka “The Beverly Belles”, who performed at the Tower of Terror in Disneyland. Full circle Disney moment.
Currently, I am working as a furniture manufacturer’s sales rep in Florida. This job came about during the Covid-19 pandemic. As we know, Covid effected so many industries. My work in entertainment and fitness slowed down significantly. When I was offered this new opportunity, it was a good time to pivot, come back to my home state, and explore another industry. I jumped right into my new role and continue to learn as I go. I still coach dancers on their performance quality, as well as conditioning for injury prevention. I also judge for a national dance competition when my schedule permits. It is rewarding to now be on the other side of the table, so to speak, to encourage and guide young dancers.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Looking back on my professional career(s), rarely were there times that I felt were easy or smooth. I don’t mean for that to sound dramatic, but it was a challenge being in competitive industries in the most competitive cities. I know, it was my idea, and totally worth it! I have always appreciated the times when work is steady. Simultaneously, as a performer, you always have to be proactive and prepared for what is next. One of the biggest challenges in entertainment, is how to balance making a living while also being available to audition, and/or work gig to gig.
Personal bump in the road, during the height of my dance career, I had a foot surgery to help with an issue I was having. The result actually caused me more pain than I was in before the procedure. I was still dancing, but in complete discomfort. There was a new reality I was suddenly facing. If my dancing days were to slow, or end, what do I have to offer? Hello identity crisis. Up until then, I didn’t realize how much I connected my perceived value as a person to what I did as a profession. I was, and am, so passionate about dance that I thought it was all I had to offer. Through the guidance of therapy, friends, and family I learned a few things about life and myself. Personal identity goes beyond job titles or talents. It is about who we are at our core and the relationships we cultivate. Our identity is more about the way we live, with authenticity and integrity.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Whether working as a performer, dance teacher, sales rep, or pilates instructor my work ethic and approach is the same. I always strive to listen to the needs of others, provide the best service possible, continue to learn, and have a laugh or two along the way. I mean let’s work hard, but let’s also have some fun along the way.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
I had Covid a couple of months into the pandemic. I went through quite the assortment of intense symptoms. Being sick was a wake-up call reminding me of the truly important things in life. Nothing matters more than good health, family, and friends. Now, anytime I feel the stress of life building, I take a breath and choose to embrace my blessings. Speaking of loved ones, I’d like to thank my family. They have cheered for me throughout my various pursuits. I am endlessly grateful for my family and friends.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.KristinMarieJohnson.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kmjred
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmjred/
Image Credits
JC Stuart Kristi Malone
