Meet Michael Dashefsky | Creative: Music & Theatre Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Dashefsky and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?

At a very early age, my dad exposed me to iconic musicians from Stevie Wonder to Donny Hathaway to Sergio Mendez and everything in between. That fostered a love of music which eventually led to my sister and I learning piano. When I was in middle school, I stumbled on a rehearsal of a play. I was in awe of the students on stage, and I realized I had to get involved in theatre. I began to juggle music and theatre in addition to swim and academics. The arts became an integral part of my childhood identity. I wanted to participate in every show, band concert, and eventually study theatre in college.

I am incredibly thankful that my family has always been unwavering in their support of all my artistic endeavors. Between investing in piano lessons, voice, dance, youth theatre and my college training, it instilled a sense of serious discipline, determination, and a willingness to step out of my comfort zone. When the opportunity presented itself to work abroad and perform, I truly embraced it. The best part of my work in entertainment is making memories hosting my friends and family in unforgettable destinations.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

Versatility is crucial to be a successful artist. There are contracts where I lean into music and piano playing. Other performance work I lean into voice and acting. Having multiple artistic skillets in an industry that is constantly changing is key.

When Covid forced all live performance to shut down, I was absolutely lost. I moved back home to my family in San Diego. I was considering graduate programs for an MBA, remote customer service work and leaving the arts all together. The thought of working a typical 9-5 without any creative outlet was soul sucking. I wanted a job that was remote where I could still be involved in music or theatre. Then I thought, maybe I should teach online? I made a couple of ads to promote my virtual teaching business. It became the biggest saving grace during the pandemic. At one point I had over 50 students leaning piano, voice, and song writing. It really took off and turned into a full-time business. I was also able to collaborate with a local youth theatre in San Diego (Solana Beach Community Theater). I continue to work with their students, and it allowed me to get involved in the arts while everything was shut down.

While Covid was a huge setback, the pandemic forced me to pivot creatively. Teaching has offered more stability while auditioning and I can be more selective about projects that I am passionate about. I am a firm believer that adversity forces you to innovate. A younger version of myself would be stressed about booking my next contract. I have learned over the years to truly trust the process. My support system (family/friends), drive and talent manifest new opportunities and travels I never thought possible. Every artist needs a healthy amount of delusion, determination, and luck.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of my favorite spots in San Diego for a night out would be seeing new theatrical work at the La Jolla Playhouse or the Old Globe. San Diego has world class theatre and is the origin of many incredible Broadway bound shows. I also love a good hike at Torrey Pines State beach while grabbing a California burrito after at Roberto’s. Munching on a classic Turkado sandwich at Board and Brew with a side of sauce is also a staple. Normal Heights and North Park are very walkable, and I always stop by Holsem Coffee or a good microbrewery. When I fly back to San Diego, I always get the feeling of truly coming home. I am so grateful for my roots in California.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

This is a difficult question, there are too many people to thank! I’ve worked with very passionate and patient instructors, professors and coaches that truly love what they do. Some of the best education has been from my travels abroad. I am so thankful to the incredible people I’ve met and worked with around the world.

The arts are built on cultivating creative relationships with other industry professionals that are dedicated to their craft. My dad has always said “keep having fun and learn as much as you can”. To this day, that advice still applies. My family deserves a special shout out for their unwavering support. I am biased, but my core group of friends helped me tremendously through any uncertainty. I credit my success to my family and friends.

As I have shifted to teaching and music coaching, I also have to thank my students. I am in awe of the incredible people that I work with and learn from. My students inspire me to be a better performer and educator. I have collaborated with the non-profit youth theatre organization, Solana Beach Community Theatre. Jolene Bogard (the founder) truly cares about creating a nurturing environment for her students while giving them access to working artistic professionals.

Website: www.michaeldashefsky.com

Instagram: M_Dashef

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.dashefsky

Other: https://linktr.ee/mdashefsky

Image Credits
Holland America Line Solana Beach Community Theater Billboard On Board So Far Sounds Chicago Tokyo Disney Resort