Marlo Martin is the artistic director and owner of eXit SPACE (for 18 years!), theNEST and NOD Theater and artistic director of badmarmarDANCE. Martin is also a choreographer, teacher and festival producer with Seattle International Dance Festival, currently taking place. “We are excited to participate in SIDF 2021 and are honored to be given an evening to celebrate our place in the Seattle dance community and to be a part of the first live performance bringing back dance to Seattle.” Learn about Marlo Martin…
Hometown: Fruitport, Michigan
First job: Waitress
Favorite ways to spend your free time in WA: In the summer, in the water, camping and BBQing!
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Founding and directing eXit SPACE because it has given so much to so many dancers, artists and families.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: There are so many, but one that comes to mind instantly is overcoming the stereotype of a young woman business owner and artist.
Someone who inspires you and why: Alicia Mullikin because she never gives up, she is loud and outspoken, she stands up for other BIPOC artists and is working to pave her way in the Seattle and larger dance world. Also, I mean, come on! Her work is stellar. It is full of passion and is an authentic physical representation of who she is and what she cares about.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Get some mentorships going. Lean in and ask questions, don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know something. There are so many gifted people in this dance world who are happy to help and guide others. Just open your mouth and ask for help; the worst thing that can happen is they say no and you move onto asking the next amazing person.
Favorite quote: “To dance is to be out of yourself. Larger, more beautiful, more powerful…This is power, it is glory on earth and it is yours for the taking.” –Agnes De Mille
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I am a single mom and have two children, ages 5 and 12.
What makes someone fabulous: Authenticity and kindness.