Who is Michelle Forte?
Michelle Forte is an almost 51 year old Mother of 14 year old Zacc and 4 year old fur Baby RJ. Incredibly passionate about dance and inspiring young people to first and foremost be strong, confident humans with a strong self of self, and secondly to become happy, confident artists who are equally as passionate about their chosen art form.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I have no desire to do anything differently. Truly believing that everything happens for a reason and we are put on this planet to learn, grow and help others to grow and become the best possible version of themselves during this short time on our amazing planet.
Who inspires you and why?
So many people inspire me, however often for similar reasons which is having the courage to live an honest life truly being themselves and not succumbing to what others or society expects them to be. To take a risk on something they truly believe in and not give a f***k about what anyone else thinks of them or their chosen mission in life. Lloyd Newson (Director of DV8 Physical Theatre-London); Maurice Causey (Best friend and incredible mentor & inspirator); Russell Simmons (Author and the God Father of Hip Hop), Elizabeth Gilbert (Author), Jiri Kylian (Choreographer), William Forsythe (Dance Legend), Sagi Gross (Director of GrossDanceCompany, amazing friend & supporter.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Feed, educate and empower the starving and downtrodden to reach their full potential. Help others to TRULY believe in themselves and that anything is possible!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Hamilton Island Australia. It’s my happy place with my 14 year old son with so much to do or not, it’s our go to holiday destination just for the two of us. We are blessed to have the opportunity to visit such a beautiful place so close to home. Not to mention supporting Australian tourism and creating jobs for our youth. I would much prefer my son to work within Australia rather than travel overseas.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Dinner with a view OR live dance production such as Sydney Dance Company or Australian Dance Theatre. We (Austinmer Dance Theatre) host 2 – 3 International Choreographers per year so it’s always lovely to take them to one of our fabulous local restaurants which boasts incredible views, atmosphere and of course, great food. If time/season permits I love taking them to a Sydney Dance Company, Bangarra Dance Theatre or Australian Dance Theatre production so they can see the incredible talent and world class companies we have here in Australia.
What are you currently reading?
Do You by Russell Simmons – an incredibly inspiring book!
What are you currently listening to?
EVERYTHING!! I have a diverse range of taste in music, some of my current faves are – Max Richter, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Autechre, Mira Calix, John Cougar Mellencamp & Ben Pearce just to name a few.
Happiness is?
Good health, loving what you do and having the luxury to share it with others!
What does the future hold for you?
Lots of hard work, good times, growth and development both personally and professionally. I’m EXCITED!
Michelle is the Artistic Director of Austinmer Dance Theatre – who will be presenting T W O, a contemporary dance double bill featuring the work of renowned choreographers Sagi Gross and Maurice Causey, at Carclew: 16 – 18 March, as part of the 2017 Adelaide Fringe. For more information, visit: www.adelaidefringe.com.au for details.
Image: Michelle Forte