Suzanne Costello

Suzanne Costello has toured and performed on stages throughout the U.S. and abroad as a dance/theater performer, director, choreographer and teacher for four decades. She also has been a leader in the field of Arts & Health since introducing the Caring for the Caregiver program in 1992 at Univ. of Florida/Gainesville Shands Hospital. This program has been presented at hospitals, hospices and care facilities throughout the world. In addition, she has developed programs for stroke survivors & their carepartners, persons impacted by cancer, persons experiencing memory loss/dementia/Alzheimer’s & their caregivers, veterans and active military and incarcerated populations. The focus of these community-inclusive initiatives is to engage the often unseen in creative expression and to provide the opportunity to have their stories heard.

“I’m so appreciative of your care in bringing us to this point. And your skill!! You are both an artist and educator. Thank you!”

Senior Adult Workshop Participant

In Florida she has presented classes and workshops at the Kravis Center, the Mayo Clinic / Jacksonville, Sylvester Cancer Center, Palm Beach State College, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Maltz Jupiter Theatre Conservatory, Gulfstream Goodwill, among others.

“I highly recommend this workshop! Suzanne does a fantastic job introducing movement, writing and interpersonal activities to blend learning, sharing and doing so in a fun, comfortable, supportive and caring environment. I will think often of what I’ve learned.”

Dementia Caregiver Workshop Participant

Over the course of her career, she has been recognized as an esteemed educator presenting classes and residencies at 100’s of K-12 schools as well as colleges and universities throughout the U.S.

“I have gathered so much from being exposed to your love and passion for theater and dance. I feel that you have not only instilled a respect of the Arts in each of us, but have shown the importance of the Arts in the public school setting.”
5th Grade Teacher

Costello’s work has been honored with multiple grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. She has been a invited speaker at conferences in The Hague, Netherlands, Bristol, UK, Ottawa, Canada, NYC, NY, Atlanta, GA, Minneapolis, MN. She has been commissioned to create original performances featuring community performers by the University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, Gilda’s Club, Minneapolis, MN, Ormao Dance, Colorado Springs, CO, Walter Reed Military Center, Bethesda, MD. Most recently she has created performance work for incarcerated men in South Dakota State Penitentiaries.

Suzanne offers classes and workshops for groups across all community sectors. She works closely with each facility or organization to determine the appropriate program for their constituents. Workshops may be a one-time offering or a series, depending on the needs of the group. Fees are determined by the number of activities.