What does it take to build a thriving dance career against the backdrop of dwindling arts funding and disappearing courses? Paul Doyle reveals exactly that, sharing his remarkable journey from a shy schoolboy choreographing cringeworthy dance routines to becoming the driving force behind Liverpool's resurrected LEAP Dance Festival.

This conversation takes us through Paul's winding path through education—from a combined honours degree at Hope University to an MA at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and a challenging PGCE—all while discovering his true calling wasn't performing himself but creating opportunities for others. The pivotal moment came while working with a group of young boys that became known as "CHAOS," where Paul witnessed the transformative power of performance through others' experiences rather than his own.

Paul speaks candidly about the hustle required to make a living in dance—juggling teaching positions, community classes, and festival production simultaneously—and the inevitable burnout that follows. Yet his unwavering belief in dance's importance shines through most powerfully when he states: "We make the world more bearable for people." This ethos has fueled his determination to revive LEAP Dance Festival despite minimal funding, creating a celebration that spans from professional international artists to community participants.

For anyone considering a creative path, Paul offers hard-earned wisdom about resilience, authenticity, and vision. "Be true to who you are," he advises, pushing back against the pressure to assimilate into what you think an arts professional should be. His story demonstrates that success comes not from chasing trends but from steadfastly pursuing your unique vision, even when that means starting small and growing organically.

Whether you're a dance enthusiast, a creative professional, or simply curious about how passion projects come to life, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the realities of building something meaningful in the arts. Experience Paul's journey and perhaps find inspiration for your own creative endeavors—and if you're near Liverpool between April 26th and May 9th, don't miss the chance to witness LEAP Dance Festival for yourself!

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

Twitter
Instagram
Facebook

If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email studio@beforetheapplausepod.com