Artist Spotlight: Joni McDonald
“Performing at The Apollo Theater is a dream come true.”
Hi! And, welcome to our artist spotlights ! This is a place where we will introduce the RudduR Dance artists and shine a light on them!
Our incredibly talented aerial dancer has been captivating audiences throughout the development of WITNESS! You might have seen their stunning performances earlier this year - we're delighted to introduce you to Joni McDonald!
Why We’re Excited?
Finding a talent like theirs is truly rare. They are equally impressive on the ground as they are in the air, and they bring an exceptional level of skill to their acting as well.
Full Interview with Joni
What inspired you to become a dancer?
I was inspired by how dance can convey emotion and tell stories without words. Growing up, I was very shy and disliked public speaking. Becoming a dancer awakened a sense of self-love, self-awareness, and boosted my self-esteem. Dance also helped me navigate one of the hardest moments of my life: losing my mother during college. It pulled me through my depression. Watching performances that fused various styles ignited a passion in me to explore movement as a form of expression and connection.
How does the mission of RudduR Dance, particularly its focus on addressing racial inequities, resonate with you personally as an artist.
RudduR Dance’s focus on addressing racial inequities aligns deeply with my values. As an artist, I believe in using my platform to highlight these issues and to create inclusive spaces where diverse voices can be heard and celebrated.
What drew you to the WITNESS project, and what do you hope audiences take away from your performance?
I was drawn to the WITNESS project because of its commitment to exploring social justice themes through dance. I hope audiences leave with a sense of urgency and hope, feeling inspired to engage with the world around them and envision a more equitable future.
In what ways do you feel the intersection of contemporary circus and ballet in WITNESS challenges traditional narratives in dance?
The blend of contemporary circus and ballet in WITNESS breaks away from classical constraints, allowing for greater expression and physical storytelling. As a Black circus artist, I don’t always see others like me in the circus world. For the past few years, I have been a prominent representation of Black circus artists here in NYC for the BIPOC community. I believe this intersection of circus and ballet introduces a fresh perspective to my fellow company members and the audience. It challenges the notion of what dance can be and redefines what circus has historically represented, which has often been dominated by Caucasian narratives. This work pushes boundaries and invites audiences to reconsider their perceptions of movement.
Can you share a moment during rehearsals for WITNESS that was particularly impactful for you?
During rehearsals, there’s a moment at the beginning of the day when we come together and “tap in.” We all share our personal hopes for the future of the world—freedom and equality—which relate to the themes of the final section of WITNESS. This practice has created a powerful bond among us and deepened my understanding of the narrative we’re telling, making the performance feel more authentic.
As someone who is contributing to a piece about envisioning a future of equity and hope, how do you see your role in shaping this narrative through your dance?
My role is to embody the emotions and stories of those affected by inequity, using my movement to inspire empathy, reflection, and a call to action. I aim to serve as a conduit for change, encouraging others to envision and work towards a more just world for everyone, regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender, and more.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
I’m most looking forward to collaborating with other artists and exploring new creative challenges. Each performance is an opportunity to grow and connect with audiences and my fellow company members in meaningful ways.
What does performing at The Apollo Theater mean to you as an artist?
I grew up watching It's Showtime at the Apollo and was always amazed by the incredible talent that passed through there. Performing at The Apollo Theater is a dream come true. It’s a historic venue that celebrates Black culture and artistry, and being part of that legacy is both humbling and inspiring.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time, I love exploring nature, reading, attending shows and museums, and taking classes in other art forms. These activities help me recharge and keep me creatively inspired.
As always, thank you for your interest in RudduR Dance! If you are interested in getting to know Joni better, we invite you to explore his Instagram and his website bio. If you feel compelled, please consider supporting Joni through our Adopt an Artist Program, which helps provide resources and opportunities for talented artists like him. Your support makes a significant difference in fostering creativity and supporting the arts community.
Again, thank you for joining us today! Keep an eye out for the next interview on our website, or subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of the page. Until next time!
If you can, please, donate to RudduR Dance and help us better the world through dance! Any amount helps!