Meet Rio!
What first sparked your love for theater and performing arts?
My elementary school always got to see a preview of the high school’s spring musical. We got take time out of the school day and watch act 1 of whatever show they were working on. I fell in love with the first 45 minutes of Bye Bye Birdie, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Grease, Beauty and the Beast, and more- some of which I still haven’t seen the second act for! Lots of cliffhangers!
You’ve worked in everything from choreography to education—how do those roles influence each other in your creative process?
It’s cliche, but being an educator makes my art better, and visa versa. I learn from the artists I direct and choreograph for, and am constantly stealing education techniques from dancers, directors, choreographers, actors, etc. that I admire.
What drew you to join the Encore team, and what excites you most about being here?
Encore has a very clear educational mission that was very appealing to me. I studied education in college and we focused a lot on objectives, often phrased “students will be able to…”. After my first day at Encore, I knew exactly what their target was, and what their young artists are becoming able to do.
You recently worked with our Les Mis cast—what was that experience like for you?
Welcoming! On my first day, the end of rehearsal cheer was “Welcome Rio!” That sort
of thing means a lot!
How do you approach teaching movement and choreography to young performers?
It’s important to me to personalize choreographer to the artist. The way someone naturally carries themselves in daily life is a unique and important building block in the overall look of the show!
Is there a particular show or role you’ve worked on that holds a special place in your heart? Why?
Tarzan at West Jordan Youth Theatre was my first big choreography project, working with a large ensemble. It was so meaningful to explore choreography with an ensemble that came together like a family to tell a story about family.
What advice would you give to young performers who want to grow as artists, both on stage and off?
Get to know yourself! You can borrow and even steal from great and successful artists, but never copy. Self knowledge, self acceptance, and uniqueness are what make an artist a star.
If you could collaborate with any director, choreographer, or performer—past or present—who would it be?
Conan Gray, please let me choreograph a music video for you!
What do you hope to bring to Encore’s future programs and productions?
I’m a big picture person. I love styling ensembles and thinking in stage pictures. I think that, combined with the high quality and specific acting training encore young artists can lead to some awesome projects!
Quick-fire round: Favorite musical? Go-to snack during rehearsal? Pre-show ritual? Hidden Talent?
Drowsy Chaperone. Costco sweet potato bites. I just love to have a moment to socialize with the other artists I’m collaborating with! I’m very good at the snowboarding mini game in Mario party.
Rio LeFevre - Associate Director and Choreography for Encore’s Les Miserables
