When Shelli Manzoline returns to the Upper Peninsula, it’s more than a homecoming: it’s a full-circle moment of creativity, mentorship, and storytelling. A native of Ishpeming and graduate of Northern Michigan University’s theater program, Manzoline is set to lead masterclasses alongside her daughter Miranda Shaughnessy at this year’s Blueberry Dance Festival, July 28–29, at Kaufman Auditorium.
Shelli is the founder of Acting In Motion, a New York–based dance training company that fuses movement and acting techniques. “We started seeing a real need for dancers to be taught how to act,” she says. “So many studios refer to it as ‘face,’ but what they’re really talking about is storytelling...something dancers of all levels can connect to.”
At the festival, Acting In Motion will offer contemporary, jazz, and musical theater masterclasses, each incorporating industry-level choreography with a focus on intention, emotional access, and individuality. “We’ll break down the storytelling behind the choreography and help dancers find their version of the story,” Shelli says. “It’s about making space for different skill levels while building confidence and creativity.”
While dance is central to their visit, Shelli and Miranda are also part of a special thriller film double feature on Sunday, July 27, at 6 p.m. at Kaufman Auditorium. Shelli stars in "Murder at the Lighthouse," a Lifetime film shot on the shores of Lake Superior. Miranda appears in "Keturah," a dystopian short film. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with both actors.
Watch the teaser for "Murder at the Lighthouse:"
“There’s something really powerful about being able to shoot in places like Duluth and Superior,” Shelli notes. “I’d love to see more film projects come to the Upper Peninsula. There’s such talent and potential here.”
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's conversation with Shelli:
For Shelli, the trip back also stirs memories—like performing in "Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris" under the direction of Shelley Russell at NMU, or getting her start in youth and community theater through the PAAC Theater. “Those early experiences gave me the foundation to grow...not just as a performer, but as a director and teacher.”
Blueberry Dance Festival Schedule Highlights:
Thriller double feature at Kaufman: Sunday, July 26th
6 pm: Screening of “Murder at the Lighthouse” and “Keturah” with Q&A following
Blueberry Dance Festival Schedule: Monday, July 28th
9 am - 5 pm: Free dance classes by local instructors
6 pm - 8:30 pm: Contemporary Master Class by Acting in Motion*
Tuesday, July 29th
9 am - 11:30 am: Jazz Master Class by Acting in Motion*
12 pm - 2:30 pm: Musical Theater Class by Acting in Motion*
7 pm - 9 pm: Showcase & Competition*
*Registration fee for master classes & competition. Registration forms & tickets available in advance at Second Skin Shop.
Visit https://secondskinshop.com/blogs/news for more information on the Blueberry Dance Festival and thriller double feature.
