Joshua Bergasse is an award-winning American choreographer and dancer best known for his dynamic work on Broadway and for choreographing the hit television series Smash. Known for blending classic Broadway movement with fresh, contemporary energy, Joshua Bergasse has become one of the most influential choreographers in modern American theater. His work is admired for its musicality, storytelling, and emotional richness, making him a respected figure among dancers, directors, and performers across the industry.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joshua Bergasse |
| Profession | Choreographer, Dancer, Director |
| Known For | Emmy-winning choreography for Smash |
| Birthplace | United States (publicly linked to Western NY upbringing) |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Sara Mearns (married 2018) |
| Famous Works | Smash, On the Town, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Gigi |
| Awards | Emmy Award, Tony nomination |
| Years Active | 1990s–present |
| Expertise | Broadway choreography, musical staging, theatrical movement |
Early Life & Background
Joshua Bergasse grew up in a household filled with movement and music. His mother owned a dance studio, giving him early access to the world of dance. Surrounded by choreography, technique, and stage energy from a young age, he developed a deep love for storytelling through movement. This early environment shaped his artistic foundation and helped him understand the emotional power of choreography long before he entered professional theater. His childhood was defined by the joy of learning steps, experimenting with rhythm, and discovering how dance could communicate feeling in ways words often cannot.
Age & Date of Birth
While Joshua Bergasse has not publicly shared a specific birthdate, he is widely associated with the generation of acclaimed Broadway choreographers who emerged in the early 2000s. What is publicly known is that he has spent decades refining his craft, teaching, performing, and developing a signature choreographic voice that continues to evolve today. His long career reflects both experience and innovation.
Education & Early Dance Training
Because he was raised inside his mother’s dance studio, Joshua Bergasse began training at an early age. He studied ballet, jazz, tap, and musical theater movement—disciplines that later became central to his choreography. His early teachers included his mother and other dance professionals who recognized his natural musicality and expressive ability.
As he grew older, he continued training and later moved to New York City, where he immersed himself in the vibrant dance world. He expanded his skills through advanced classes, professional workshops, and ongoing study that sharpened his understanding of rhythm, technique, and stage composition. This period of artistic growth allowed him to transition from dancer to choreographer with confidence.
First Steps Into Professional Dancing
Before becoming a celebrated choreographer, Joshua Bergasse worked as a professional dancer. He performed in national tours, regional theater productions, and stage performances that allowed him to experience choreography from the performer’s side. These early jobs gave him invaluable insights into how dancers think, move, and interpret direction—knowledge that later strengthened his ability to choreograph effectively. His time as a performer helped him understand the physical realities of stage movement and the collaborative nature of theatrical storytelling.
Breakthrough as a Choreographer
The major breakthrough in Joshua Bergasse’s career came with NBC’s musical drama Smash. The show, which explored the creation of a Broadway musical, required choreography that felt authentic, theatrical, and emotionally charged. His work on Smash earned widespread praise for its creativity and realism, and he won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography.
This success propelled him into the national spotlight and established him as one of the leading choreographers of his generation. Smash allowed him to showcase the full range of his abilities—from intimate character-driven numbers to large-scale ensemble routines, all reflecting his deep understanding of musical theater.
Major Works in Theater, TV & Film
Joshua Bergasse has choreographed a wide range of productions across Broadway, television, and live theater. Some of his most notable works include:
- Broadway’s On the Town – earning a Tony Award nomination
- Gigi – reviving classic movement vocabulary with modern flair
- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – imaginative dance storytelling
- Smash – Emmy-winning television choreography
- Teaching and directing projects across major dance institutions
His body of work showcases his versatility and his ability to adapt choreography to different genres, themes, and performance settings.
Signature Style & Artistic Influence
Joshua Bergasse is known for a choreographic style that blends classic Broadway traditions with contemporary movement. His work often includes:
- Strong musicality
- Story-focused choreography
- Clean lines
- Expressive partnering
- Jazz and ballet foundations
- High-energy ensemble work
His influences include legendary choreographers like Bob Fosse, Jerome Robbins, and Gene Kelly—artists who emphasized storytelling, emotional connectivity, and character-driven dance. Bergasse honors these traditions while adding fresh layers of innovation, making his work feel both timeless and modern.
Physical Appearance
Although he maintains a private personal profile, Joshua Bergasse is publicly recognized for his athletic, dancer-trained build and polished stage presence. His expressive movement quality and calm demeanor make him a natural leader in rehearsals, where he brings confidence, clarity, and a collaborative spirit. His appearance reflects the discipline and strength that come from decades of dance training and performance.
Personal Life & Relationships
Joshua Bergasse is married to Sara Mearns, one of the principal ballerinas at the New York City Ballet. The couple married in 2018, bringing together two influential forces in the dance world. Their relationship is rooted in shared artistic passion, mutual respect, and a deep understanding of the demands of professional dance.
Together, they occasionally collaborate on artistic projects, blending ballet and Broadway movement in creative ways.
Awards & Career Achievements
Throughout his career, Joshua Bergasse has earned multiple honors, including:
- Primetime Emmy Award for Smash
- Tony Award nomination for On the Town
- Recognition from dance institutions and theater organizations
- Professional praise for reviving classic movement vocabulary in modern productions
His achievements highlight both technical excellence and his ability to shape the emotional tone of a production through movement.
Life Outside Dance & Choreography
Outside of choreography, Joshua Bergasse is known for teaching, mentoring, and supporting the next generation of dancers. He teaches regularly at Broadway Dance Center, where students appreciate his patient teaching style and his focus on musicality. He also enjoys collaborating with other artists, exploring new movement styles, and participating in creative workshops. His life outside the studio includes spending time with his wife, engaging in artistic community events, and enjoying the cultural energy of New York City.
Recent Projects & Current Work
In recent years, Joshua Bergasse has continued to work on major theater productions, TV choreography, and specialty performance directing. He remains active in both Broadway and television, often contributing to high-profile projects that require strong narrative movement. As storytelling evolves, he continues to innovate, adding new layers of expression to his choreography.
Legacy & Impact on American Dance
The legacy of Joshua Bergasse lies in his ability to honor classic Broadway dance while reshaping it for a modern era. His work bridges generations, connecting traditional theatrical styles with contemporary creativity. Through his choreography, teaching, and dedication to the craft, he has become a major influence on American dance and musical theater. His impact continues to grow as new dancers learn from his example and as audiences experience the emotional depth of his movement storytelling.
Conclusion
Joshua Bergasse stands as one of the most respected and admired choreographers in American theater. From his childhood in a dance studio to his Emmy-winning breakthrough on Smash, his journey reflects passion, artistry, and lifelong dedication. His work continues to inspire performers, audiences, and choreographers, securing his place among the most influential dance creators of his time.
FAQs
Who is Joshua Bergasse?
Joshua Bergasse is an American choreographer and dancer best known for his Emmy-winning work on the TV series Smash.
What is Joshua Bergasse famous for?
He is widely recognized for choreographing Smash and major Broadway shows like On the Town and Gigi.
Is Joshua Bergasse a dancer too?
Yes, he began his career as a dancer before becoming a full-time choreographer.
How old is Joshua Bergasse?
He has not publicly shared his exact birthdate, but he has been active in the industry for several decades.
Where did Joshua Bergasse train?
He grew up training at his mother’s dance studio and later studied in New York’s professional dance scene.
Who is Joshua Bergasse married to?
He is married to Sara Mearns, a principal ballerina with the New York City Ballet.
What awards has he won?
He won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography for Smash and has received a Tony nomination.
Has he worked on Broadway?
Yes, he has choreographed multiple Broadway productions, including On the Town and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Does he teach dance?
He teaches at Broadway Dance Center and frequently leads masterclasses and workshops.
Is Joshua Bergasse still active today?
Yes, he continues choreographing, teaching, and working on new projects in theater and television.
For More Update and Stories Visit: greenpress
