Karen Shuman
Director &
Choreographer
With a blend of innovative choreography and compelling storytelling, Karen Shuman is an accomplished director and choreographer with a rich portfolio in theater, dance, and coaching. Her work encompasses a wide variety of styles, aiming to inspire and create experiences that connect with the audience's emotional world. She is passionate about the uniqueness of live theater striving to create impactful moments that connect ensemble and audience.
The Chicago Critic
Catch me if you can
"Choreographer Karen Shuman deserves a standing ovation for taking a huge amateur company of various skills and experiences and giving every performer a purpose and a place. The dancing crackles with verve and attitude that feels completely in character and never superfluous to the central story. Bravo!"
Audience
Shrek
"This show was beautiful. I saw moments that I hadn't seen before (in other productions). The relationships felt real and I laughed my ass off!"
Chicago
"Ahhh I love how you honored Fosse but created completely new movement and pictures. I really like how you told the story through movement."
The scene
THe Prom
"Praise is also well-deserved for....the impressive dancing throughout, thanks to choreographer Karen Shuman"
Focus
EXPERIENCE - With years of experience in theater, coaching actors and bringing stories to life, I focus on inspiring both the ensemble and the audience through examination of text, trust of instincts, and human connection.
FOCUS - I believe the beauty of theater is in the discovery. I direct by watching the working style of the performer, guiding them through improvisation and humor. I am driven to build an engaged ensemble and create impactful art.
PASSION - When choreographing, I combine movement inspired from all areas of life with a variety of technique and tones from different genres to create something unique. My focus is making the individual bodies move in a way that connects to the whole picture - supporting both story and energy.
