Adam Shankman Quotes

Powerful Adam Shankman for Daily Growth

About Adam Shankman

Adam Shankman, born on November 27, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, is an acclaimed American film director, producer, choreographer, and television personality. Raised in the San Fernando Valley, Shankman's passion for dance was ignited at a young age, performing in local productions and eventually studying at the University of Southern California's School of Theatre. Shankman gained national recognition when he was chosen as one of the original choreographers for MTV's hit series 'The Grind,' where he worked alongside renowned artists such as Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, George Michael, and Paula Abdul. His work on this show catapulted him into the world of Hollywood, leading to numerous opportunities in film and television. In 1993, Shankman made his directorial debut with the music video for Whitney Houston's song "I Will Always Love You." The success of this project paved the way for a flourishing career behind the camera. His subsequent music videos for artists like Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, and Beyoncé earned him multiple MTV Video Music Awards, VH1 Video Fashion Awards, and American Choreography Awards. Shankman's first foray into feature films came with the 2007 romantic comedy 'Stick It,' which he both directed and choreographed. However, it was his work on the musical films 'Hairspray' (2007) and 'Rock of Ages' (2012) that solidified his status as a talented filmmaker. In 2019, Shankman co-directed and choreographed 'What Men Want,' showcasing his versatility in various aspects of the entertainment industry. Today, Adam Shankman continues to make significant contributions to the world of dance and film. His unique blend of humor, emotion, and social commentary has resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing his place as an influential figure in the arts.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The dance is a spiritual journey into the heart of your soul."

This quote suggests that dance serves as a profound exploration and expression of one's inner self or soul. The act of dancing, in Adam Shankman's perspective, offers an opportunity to delve deep into the core of our emotional and spiritual being, allowing us to connect with and understand ourselves on a more intimate level. This process is often referred to as 'spiritual' because it transcends mundane existence and touches upon our most personal and profound feelings.


"Dance is an act of love and passion, not just a physical movement."

This quote by Adam Shankman emphasizes that dance transcends mere bodily movements; it is an expression of deep emotions such as love and passion. Dance, in this sense, becomes a form of communication where the dancer's feelings are conveyed to the audience through fluid, emotive movements. It's not just about technique or skill, but also about connecting with oneself and others on an emotional level.


"I believe that art is about expressing yourself, it's about making people think and feel."

This quote by Adam Shankman emphasizes the dual purpose of art: self-expression and thought/emotional provocation in others. Art serves as a means for individuals to communicate their unique perspectives, emotions, and ideas, transcending conventional language barriers. Furthermore, it has the power to evoke thoughts and feelings within its audience, fostering empathy, understanding, and personal growth. Thus, art's impact goes beyond mere entertainment, acting as a catalyst for human connection and self-discovery.


"There's always a moment in a dance number when the dancers look like they're flying."

The quote implies that during a dance performance, there exists a fleeting instant where the fluidity, grace, and skill of the dancers create an illusion of flight or weightlessness. This suggests that dance can transcend physical boundaries and momentarily lift both performers and audience beyond their earthly limitations, into realms of beauty and freedom.


"Dance allows you to find yourself and lose yourself at the same time."

This quote highlights that dance provides a unique opportunity for individuals to simultaneously discover their innermost selves (find yourself) and escape momentary pressures or concerns (lose yourself). It suggests that through dance, one can connect with their emotions, creativity, and identity while also temporarily leaving behind daily stressors and immersing in the present. The balance of self-expression and mindfulness embodied in dance makes it a transformative and therapeutic experience for many people.


Dancing and music were my first love. I was happiest at being a chorus boy.

- Adam Shankman

Love, Music, Dancing, Chorus

The discovery of dance has changed my life in unimaginable ways.

- Adam Shankman

My Life, Discovery, Ways, Unimaginable

A little secret - I'm the child of a shrink. I am; my mom's a shrink, and my father's a lawyer. So believe me, I analyze and negotiate. That is a huge amount of the director's work, especially when you're working with people who - such a variety.

- Adam Shankman

Father, Mom, Secret, Lawyer

I feel like a lot of my past career was going to film school, making a lot of different kinds of movies. I made a bunch of comedies, I made one drama and I made a couple musicals.

- Adam Shankman

Career, Couple, Film School, Comedies

When I put something into motion, the creativity starts to make other people want to jump in, and then a lot of people get employed. I'm just like a shark, in that way. If I stop swimming, I'll die. But, it really is about that shared experience with people. I'm from theater, and that's really what theater feels like.

- Adam Shankman

Die, Feels, Shared, Jump

When the opportunity to choreograph came up, it was nothing more in my head but an opportunity. Then it suddenly became a career very quickly.

- Adam Shankman

Career, Very, Became, Choreograph

I really loved making 'A Walk to Remember', so I'm not afraid of making smaller films. But for me, I just need to connect to the characters.

- Adam Shankman

Making, Films, Smaller, Connect

I grew up in Brentwood, but I live now in Los Feliz. I grew up on the beach, now I live under the Hollywood sign.

- Adam Shankman

Now, Hollywood, Los, Beach

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