Jazz Alumnus Hunter Mikles Authors Children's Book to Inspire Young Artists to Pursue Their Dreams Alumni Profile

Why did you choose Point Park University’s Conservatory of Performing Arts for dance?

I wanted a dance program that had a concentration in jazz, while not being limited in opportunity by my major. Being able to be in the ballets one semester and the contemporary works the next was transformative for me, and absolutely contributed to my versatility as a performer.

What professional experiences have you you had since graduating from Point Park?

Shortly after graduation, I worked in several regional productions and joined the national tour of Dirty Dancing. After that ended, I spent a summer season at Pittsburgh CLO. I also worked with incredible choreographers as part of Dance Lab New York.

I toured internationally with An American in Paris throughout China, Taiwan and Paris. After returning to New York City, I did commercial work with Parsons Dance before the pandemic shut down the industry. Following that, I joined the touring cast of WICKED as a temporary replacement and the Broadway company as a vacation swing in May.

You recently authored a book. Tell us more about that.

While living at home in North Carolina during quarantine in 2020, my mom and I decided to use that time to write a book. As a retired educator, this was something she always wanted to do, so why not? We worked together to write the manuscript, find a publisher and select an illustrator.

Hunter the Dancing Fox is based on my true story, following me growing up in a relatively small town, trying all the things that boys are “supposed” to do, finding dance, and eventually following and achieving my dreams of being on Broadway.

We really want to inspire young readers to find the thing that they love to do and pursue it, despite what others may say. We hope the book can be a great resource for parents and educators to teach the importance of anti-bullying, self-acceptance, non-traditional careers and pursuing your passions.

What advice do you have for prospective dance majors?

I have no doubt that Point Park can provide the dance training needed to be successful in the industry, so my biggest advice falls mostly outside of the aspect of ability itself, and it lies more in the way that you will work.

It seems so simple, but people want to work with good people. Building your reputation as an artist that is dependable, humble, who brings joy, gratitude and authenticity to every project you are a part of will often do as much work for you (sometimes even more) than the physical steps you do in an audition.

What’s next for you in your career?

For now, I’m elated to be at WICKED Broadway, as well as writing more children’s books. I also have been working in the tech industry for the last year, and am looking forward to exploring more opportunities in that space as well. Looking ahead, I’d love to be in an original Broadway cast of a new show, as well as work in film and television.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don’t be afraid to explore other things! Be an entrepreneur. Learn about other industries. I think it’s so important to have other avenues that you are interested in, and can help provide financial stability, if that’s what you need. It isn't a backup plan — it's an incredibly valuable addition and doesn't make you any less of an artist.

More About: Conservatory of Performing Arts, dance, Honors Program, jazz, Dance Alumni, success story, alumni, Conservatory Alumni