In conversation with Shula Carter

“…I believe my character perfectly portrays the idea that your community has a huge impact on how you express yourself. However, the growth must come from within.”

 - Shula Carter

Shula Carter, photo credit Broadway Studios.

Shula Carter is an East London-based creative with a background in contemporary, ballet, and modern dance. She trained at the Vestry School of Dance and later at LMA London, where she developed skills in commercial, hip hop, and tap dance, alongside stage and screen performance. Her credits include performing at the UEFA Cup Final opening ceremony with Lenny Kravitz. Shula has also been part of Our Mighty Groove, a production exploring the transformative power of the club dancefloor, set to open at Sadler’s Wells East in Stratford in February 2025. Having been involved in its research and development since 2023, Shula is now stepping into her professional career as one of the central characters in the production. We spoke to her about her career and the upcoming Our Mighty Groove.

How did your journey into dance begin, and what motivated you to pursue it seriously?

I started dancing at the age of four at my local dance school, Vestry School of Dance. As I grew up, I added more styles to my weekly routine, along with acting classes. Despite being intelligent, I struggled at school and didn’t feel there was a subject that fed my soul as much as dance did. When it came time to choose a college, I switched from academics to performing arts, and five years later, I graduated with a BA (Hons) in Dance Performance.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned during your time at the LMA London, and how do you apply it to your professional work?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned while studying dance is that, despite all the stereotypical viewpoints, a degree in dance is something I’d never regret. It shapes you into a well-rounded individual, preparing you for the professional world by teaching not only punctuality and intellect but also people skills and compassion. I don’t think many degrees manage to push all of these qualities into one.

Our Mighty Groove incorporates a wide range of dance styles. How do you approach learning and performing these different styles, and how do they influence your performance?

I love exploring the club atmosphere, using an array of styles to intertwine with my character’s personality traits. While learning new movement vocabulary, I remain mindful of my skills and how I can use them to amplify my character’s mannerisms. Staying open and non-judgmental with myself when learning new movements allows me to pick them up more quickly. Staying grounded also helps me capture that authentic club feeling of dancing as if nobody’s watching.

Our Mighty Groove Rehearsals, Image Credit Ellie Kurttz.

Our Mighty Groove explores themes of community and self-expression. How do you connect with these themes through your role in the production?

My character goes on a (mighty) journey during this show, which is deeply intertwined with everyone’s personalities. Different types of characters and their statuses bring out my character’s traits. This club is meant to take you from being stuck against the wall to dancing however authentically you move, and I believe my character perfectly portrays the idea that your community has a huge impact on how you express yourself. However, the growth must come from within.

Performing at Sadler’s Wells East is a huge milestone. How does it feel to be part of a production at such a renowned venue so early in your career?

Frankly, I feel honoured to be here. I’m currently in the building, and it doesn’t feel real yet. My nan and I have watched New Adventures perform at Sadler’s Wells since I was little, so to be part of this full-circle moment less than a year after graduating is more than just a milestone for me. She may not be here anymore, but I know she helped me get there.

From your early days of dancing to now performing professionally, what has been the most significant turning point in your journey?

Without a doubt, the first intensive I took part in with Uchenna back in 2023 opened my eyes to the industry I could step into. Never before had I felt so pushed and seen at the same time. It was the first time I was able to be so authentically myself without going home riddled with anxiety. All three of those women made me feel so safe, which allowed me to develop the confidence within myself that I am more than enough for this industry.

As you continue your career in dance, what are your next steps, and how do you hope to evolve as an artist?

I’m hoping my next steps are in a similar environment to this. I look forward to pursuing a career in contemporary theatre with companies such as Uchenna, New Adventures, and more. I would also love to dip my toes into the commercial world, especially supporting queer artists, for example, Girl in Red. As a queer woman myself, that would make me feel very proud and accomplished.

The [Quick] #FLODown: 

Best life advice?

Growth can be lonely, but staying in the same place is desolate

Last song you listened to?

Yes and? Ariana Grande

Last book you read?

The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth

Can't live without…?

My cuddly toy bunny

Ariana grande merch

Friends and family

What should the art world be more or less of?

Ego kills art, confidence embraces it. This industry needs more sense of community and acceptance, less judgement and robotic training.

Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu’s Our Mighty Groove will take place at Sadler’s Wells East in Stratford from 6–9 February 2025. Click here to book tickets now.

Instagram: @shulacarter