Ballet & Dance Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Wonderful World of Dance
Anna MuromtsevaIn this inspiring podcast, we share the remarkable story of strength and resilience of Ukrainian principal dancer Anna Muromtseva, who faced the most devastating and unimaginable experience of fleeing her home following the Russian invasion and restarting her life and dance career with the Hungarian National Ballet.
Listen to Anna’s heartfelt interview as she looks back to growing up in Ukraine and rising through the ranks from corps de ballet to soloist and principal dancer. She gives an insight into the demanding yet fulfilling dance life with the National Ballet of Ukraine, their repertoire and the rigorous performance and rehearsal schedules.
Anna’s deeply personal story takes a dramatic turn with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which forced her to flee her homeland along with her family. Leaving behind all her dancewear and pointe shoes, Anna faced the daunting task of finding a new company which led to auditioning for the Hungarian National Ballet alongside other displaced Ukrainian dancers. And although Anna successfully secured a contract, the only available position available was in the corps de ballet.
Anna talks intimately about the physical and emotional challenges of transitioning from a principal dancer in Kyiv to the corps in Budapest. Fortunately, the company’s artistic director, Tamas Solymosi, provides opportunities for dancers of all ranks to perform a variety of roles. This has seen Anna return to dancing principal roles, such as Odette/Odile in Swan Lake and helped her rediscover the love of dance in the midst of so much devastation.
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Follow Anna Muromtseva on Instagram: @g.anna.muromtseva
You can also listen to the podcast interview on all major streaming platforms including Apple, Spotify and more.
Watch the interview on our YouTube.
Anna Muromtseva
Welcome to The Wonderful World of Dance Podcast!
We’re excited to share our new podcast with Christopher Marney, award-winning dancer, teacher, choreographer and Artistic Director of London City Ballet.
London City Ballet was first established in 1978 as the resident company of London’s Sadler’s Wells and was one of the world’s leading dance companies. Before the company closed in 1996, Diana, Princess of Wales was the Royal Patron and often visited the company in Covent Garden.
Under Chris’ visionary leadership, the company has been reformed and is embarking on its first season in 30 years, with a tour spanning the UK and international stages.
Listen to Chris as he shares memorable moments from his time dancing with renowned companies such as Balletboyz and Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures. He also discusses his experience of working with acclaimed choreographers and the inspiration that ignited his passion for choreography. Discover his journey from dancer, choreographer to the artistic director leading London City Ballet’s exciting new chapter.
London City Ballet is presenting an exciting programme ‘Resurgence’ that includes the revival of Kenneth MacMillan’s 1972 one-act ballet Ballade, unseen in Europe for over 50 years. Ashley Page’s Larina Waltz marks the ballet’s 30th anniversary, and Olivier award-winner Arielle Smith premieres a new work.
Eve, a full company work by Christopher Marney (which premiered at Sadler’s Wells in 2022) will close the evening. At tour venues in Portugal and China the pas de deux from Kenneth MacMillan’s Concerto will also be performed.
London City Ballet 18-venue UK and international tour starts on 7 July.
Find venues and tickets: londoncityballet.com
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Concerto, Choreographer Kenneth MacMillan. Dancers: Ayca Anil & Mischa GoodmanLarina Waltz, Choreographer Ashley Page. Dancers: Ayca Anil & Mischa GoodmanCreation, Choreographer Arielle Smith. Dancer Harry AlexanderEve, Choreographer Christopher Marney. Dancers Kanika Skye Carr & Alvaro Madrigal
In this podcast, Principal Dancer Isaac Hernández shares his unique story of growing up in Mexico as one of 11 kids, being taught to dance by his father and dancing with ABT II, San Francisco Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, his move to English National Ballet, and the decision to return to San Francisco Ballet.
Isaac also shares his passion for inspiring the next generation of dancers in Mexico, where he has established projects that provide opportunities for future dance stars.
Listen to Isaac talk about his experience of guesting around the world, and working with renowned choreographers, including Christopher Wheeldon as he reprises the role of Prince Guillaume in Wheeldon’s dazzling Cinderella.
Don’t miss the chance to see Isaac perform in Christopher Wheeldon’s Cinderella running until 8 April 2023.
Get your tickets for Romeo & Juliet, from 21-30 April.
For more information visit: San Francisco Ballet
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Isaac Hernández in Forsythe’s Blake Works I © Lindsay Thomas
Cathy Marston, internationally renowned, award winning British Choreographer and Artistic Director has created critically acclaimed works for The Royal Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Northern Ballet, English National Ballet, Cuban National Ballet, Ballet Black and more.
In this insightful podcast, Cathy shares her journey from dancer to choreographer, her inspiration for creating narrative ballets, her choreographic process and how she works with the dancers in the studio. We also discuss the importance of women choreographers and diverse voices in the dance industry.
Houston Ballet Principals Jessica Collado as Alma, Chase O’Connell as John and Soloist Mackenzie Richter as the Angel in Cathy Marston’s Summer and Smoke. Photo by Lawrence Elizabeth Knox (2023), Courtesy of Houston Ballet.This month sees the world premiere of Cathy’s interpretation of Tennessee Williams’ Summer and Smoke with Houston Ballet, America’s fourth largest ballet company. Listen to Cathy describe this tragic tale of love and betrayal, how she developed the characters’ movement motifs and the inventive staging that it set to impress audiences.
Houston Ballet Principal Jessica Collado as Alma and Soloist Mackenzie Richter as the Angel with Artists of Houston Ballet in Cathy Marston’s Summer and Smoke. Photo by Amitava Sarkar (2023), Courtesy of Houston Ballet.The world premiere of Tennessee Williams’ Summer and Smoke runs to 19 March 2023. For more information and tickets visit: Houston Ballet
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The Wonderful World of Dance has arrived in the vibrant city of Sydney, Australia to explore the dynamic dance scene of this beautiful country. And, of course, we couldn’t miss the chance to visit Sydney Dance Company, the leading contemporary dance company in Australia.
In this podcast, we had the privilege to sit down with the company’s Artistic Director and Choreographer Rafael Bonachela at the stunning studio overlooking the magnificent Sydney Harbour.
On the eve of Sydney Dance Company’s much-anticipated Sydney premiere of their latest triple bill Ascent, Bonachela shares his journey from Barcelona to London and then to Sydney, and how his vision has shaped the company over the past 14 years.
Bonachela discusses the acclaimed choreographers that he has brought to work with the company and gives an insight into his process for creating his own works. He also shares the inspiration behind Ascent, which includes two world premieres – Bonachela’s I Am-ness and Marina Mascarell’s The Shell, A Ghost, The Host & The Lyrebird, plus the reprisal of Antony Hamilton’s award-winning Forever & Ever.
Rafael Bonachela in rehearsal of I Am-ness with Sydney Dance Company. Photo by Pedro GreigAscent runs from 15 March – 26 March 2023 at the Sydney Opera House, followed by an Australian national tour from May – August 2023. For more information and tickets visit: Sydney Dance Company
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In this podcast Russell Maliphant, the critically acclaimed, award winning choreographer, dancer and artistic director of Russell Maliphant Dance Company, discusses his career and work that firmly places this artist as one of Britain's most important choreographers creating work today.
Next year, Russell Maliphant Dance Company is set to celebrate their 25th Anniversary. Listen to Russell share his journey from training with The Royal Ballet School, dancing with Sadler's Wells Royal Ballet (now Birmingham Royal Ballet), before deciding to forge an independent dance career, that led to him establishing Russell Maliphant Dance Company.
Russell is a deeply considered artist, eternally curious and highly academic. Listen to Russell as he discusses his interest and research into anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, Rolf Method of Structural Integration, somatic practice and more. He also talks about his exploration of flow and energy and the relationship between movement, light and music in his award winning work.
Russell Maliphant (c) Panayiotis Sinnos
At the time of this podcast recording, dance was just returning to the stage in London and unfortunately due to the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic hitting the UK and Europe, performances have again been cancelled or delayed.
Russell Maliphant choreographed a piece for English National Ballet's REUNION - which was to be their first live performance since the initial lockdown - unfortunately this is currently delayed. Russell Maliphant Dance Company is scheduled to perform in Europe in early 2021. The company has also made their Digital Archives available and they are also holding online classes, workshops and more. Stay up to date with Russell Maliphant Dance Company performance dates and discover more here.
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English National Ballet and Dutch National Ballet former Artistic Director, former Royal Ballet Senior Principal Dancer and world renowned choreographer Wayne Eagling, talks to The Wonderful World of Dance about his dance career, training with Dame Ninette de Valois, working with Sir Kenneth MacMillan and Sir Frederick Ashton, life at the famous Royal Opera House and hanging out with his friend Rudolf Nureyev. In this podcast, Wayne gives an insight into his 22 years with The Royal Ballet, his time as Artistic Director for the Dutch National Ballet and returning home after 14 years to become the Artistic Director of the English National Ballet. This wonderful conversation also looks into his extensive body of choreographic work for top companies around the world from The Royal Ballet, La Scala, Rome Opera Ballet, Hong Kong Ballet, Kremlin Ballet and during his tenures at English National Ballet and the Dutch National Ballet. New English Ballet Theatre in 'REMEMBRANCE' by Wayne Eagling. Photo by Deborah Jaffe Wayne talks about his latest project, working with the New English Ballet Theatre who premiered on YouTube, his dynamic narrative ballet, ‘REMEMBRANCE’, (available on YouTube until 15 December 2020). REMEMBRANCE tells the universal story of love, loss and war based on the life of Dame Marie Rambert – founder of Britain’s first and oldest ballet company – and her husband, the playwright Ashley Dukes. Listen to Wayne talk about working with the New English Ballet Theatre, rehearsing with the dancers and seeing his work move online during the coronavirus pandemic. NEBT in 'REMEMBRANCE' by Wayne Eagling. Photo by Deborah Jaffe
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Viviana Durante is an international ballet star and former principal dancer with The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, La Scala and K-Ballet.
Hailed as one of the most dramatic dancers of her time, Viviana has forged an esteemed career as an Artistic Director, Producer, Coach, Judge and Author.
In this podcast, Viviana talks about training at the Royal Ballet School, dancing with The Royal Ballet, establishing her own company and the influence on her new role as the Artistic Director of English National Ballet School, following her appointment just a year ago as the School's Dance Director.
Viviana also shares her experience as the Artistic Director of Viviana Durante Company and curating ground breaking programmes, featuring a roster of famous dancers from The Royal Ballet, Ballet Black and Scottish Ballet.
Listen to Viviana's vision for the English National Ballet School, the rigours of ballet training, the challenges faced by students during the covid pandemic, and how the School is supporting their young dancers as they return to class.
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Tiler Peck, New York City Ballet Principal is not only a famous ballerina in the US, she has become a global household name following her uber successful live ballet classes #turnoutwithtiler, launched during the covid pandemic.
In this podcast, Tiler gives an insight into her inspiration for starting the online classes and the incredible feedback received from dancers around the world. Tiler shares one special story about a dancer in Iran, who was able to take class in the privacy of her own home, in a country where dancing in public is forbidden. This is the power of dance, and the power of digital dance during the pandemic.
Listen to Tiler talk about her experience of lockdown and months away from the studio, following an extensive break from dancing as a result of a serious neck injury last year.
In Tiler's uplifting style, she shares how she has been dealing with dancing at home and how she's ensuring she's ready for when the New York City Ballet is able to perform live. She also gives some insightful advice for other dancers, who are in a similar situation waiting for dance to return to the stage.
Tiler has used this time away from the studio and rehearsals to create A New Stage, which is having its world premiere online on 16 October (then available to stream).
Hear Tiler talk about curating and staring in A New Stage, which includes three new pieces from ballet to hip-hop to tap; working with Lil Buck, Sierra Boggess, Brooklyn Mack and the Syncopated Ladies, who take the stage in works by Chloe Arnold and Jennifer Weber, and a world premiere from Christopher Wheeldon.
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Hofesh Shechter is an award winning, critically acclaimed choreographer, composer and artistic director of the ground-breaking and mind-blowing Hofesh Shechter Company.
The renowned contemporary dance company presents work that is deeply visceral with performances that are spellbindingly raw, often raging, completely unexpected and a full assault on the senses.
Hofesh talks in this podcast about growing up in Israel, travelling to Europe, and arriving in London to dance with the Jasmin Vardimon Company, before deciding take a year out to create his own work, which led to the formation of his own company.
Listen to Hofesh describe his movement language, how he creates new work, his inspirations, and how he works with the dancers to deliver powerful performances of his distinct choreographic vocabulary.
Hofesh also talks about the impact of lockdown and the shift to focus on digital, with the collaboration with Sadler’s Wells. Their Digital Stage In Focus series gives you the opportunity to take one of Hofesh Shechter Company workshops and learn exerts from his distinctive choreography.
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American Ballet Theatre Soloist, Gabe Stone Shayer talks in this podcast about his journey from Philadelphia to becoming the first African-American male graduate of the Bolshoi Ballet Academy, the first in the 250 year history of this prestigious school.
Gabe shares his experience of dancing and living in Moscow, touring with the Bolshoi Ballet and returning to the US to join the American Ballet Theatre.
Having performed many soloist and principal roles over the years, and creating roles with the acclaimed choreographer Alexei Ratmansky, Gabe was promoted to Soloist during the lockdown and awaits to return to perform on stage.
During the lockdown, Gabe has drawn on his love of choreography and launched the Creative Genesis project and has raised more than $30,000 to go towards creating and presenting new choreographic work. This project importantly helps support other dancers during these covid times, giving them work and an opportunity to perform as they wait for the theatres to reopen.
You can DONATE HERE to the Creative Genesis project!
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Akram Khan MBE is without doubt one of the most innovative and important choreographers of our time. He has created some of the most profound and moving works over the last 20 years of Akram Khan Company, a company he founded with Farooq Chaudry.
In this podcast, Akram talks about his experience of lockdown that led to feelings of depression, caused by the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. He gives us an insight into how he began creating again and collaborating on their 20th celebration programme The Silent Burn Project.
Akram looks back over his dance career; from his dance training in Kathak South Asian classical dance and contemporary dance, to the influences and inspirations that led to him choreographing works that tell stories which critically address subjects ranging from power, oppression and racism.
Listen to Akram talk about his approach to creating new works, his process of working with his visual, musical and design collaborators and dancers when he goes in the studio.
In this intimate discussion, Akram reflects on his career highlights, on working with Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Antony Gormley, prima ballerina Sylvie Guillem CBE, creating Giselle with English National Ballet, and his hotly anticipated premiere of ENB's Creature which has been delayed due to coronavirus. We also talk about his creations; Dust, Until the Lions, Xenos, DESH and more.
As we delve into Akram Khan Company, Akram gives a glimpse of what to expect from The Silent Burn Project, which features world famous prima ballerina Misty Copeland, plus dance short films, debates and more exciting content to celebrate the last two decades of this astounding company.
The Silent Burn Project premieres worldwide for FREE via livestream on the company's website, YouTube channel and Facebook Live on 4 October 2020 at midday UK time.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/2Akram+khan.mp3
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Principal dancer Carlo di Lanno moved from San Francisco Ballet to Semperoper Ballett in Germany just as the coronavirus pandemic started to hit Europe.
After arriving in the company's home in the city of Dresden, Carlo immediately quarantined for two weeks before going into the studio to take company class and start rehearsals for the season that has already seen cancellations.
Listen to Carlo talk about his lockdown dance experience and what it's like joining a new ballet company when required to socially distance from your colleagues, while taking class metres apart from another, on rotating schedules.
Semperoper Ballett is stepping back on stage with a series of gala events called »Semper Essenz: We Will Dance!«, being performed at the wonderful opera house accompanied by their world-famous orchestra.
With so many dance companies around the world cancelling their entire seasons, furloughing dancers and making staff redundant, it is uplifting to see ballet dancers set to perform to live audiences with a live orchestra - it's almost semi-normal!
Carlo also shares his journey from growing up in south Italy to dancing with La Scala in Milan, Staatsballett Berlin and moving to San Francisco Ballet and working with world renowned choreographers William Forsythe, David Dawson, Benjamin B. Millepied, Christopher Wheeldon and more.
»Semper Essenz: We Will Dance!« is on 25 September and 1, 4, 16, 18 & 25 October 2020 - get your tickets.
Photo: Sofiane Sylve and Carlo Di Lanno in On the Nature of Daylight by Ian Whalen
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/Carlo.mp3
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In this podcast, English National Ballet's Isabelle Brouwers gives us an insight into her lockdown experience that coincided with recovering from an injury; she also talks about how she prepared to return to the studio and what it's like dancing with a mask.
https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/2Isabelle+Brouwers.mp3
It is an understatement to say that Covid has presented enormous challenges for the dance industry. Dancers have been especially hit, as they have strived to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing within the confines of their homes, often isolated and separated from their families as well as their dance colleagues. And this is before the industry-wide redundancies, covid infections and shifting government policies restricting and delaying live performances around the world.
Isabelle Brouwers, English National Ballet (c) Nath Martin
However, throughout this period Isabelle has remained positive. She shares how she used the time at home with her sister to rehabilitate her injured foot, while taking courses to further her academic career, and writing about dance and reviewing online shows. These goals helped to keep her focused and ensure she was ready to return to ENB's new multi-million pound home in East London.
Listen to Isabelle describe the feeling of finally being back in the studio, and how the company has managed the dancers' return to keep them safe, with staggered start times, one-way systems and dance social 'bubbles'.
Isabelle is absolutely relishing being back at the barre, even though this means taking company class in a mask - something dancers around the world are having to get used to. It's intriguing to hear a dancer describe how a small piece of cloth has an impact on how a dancer experiences their space, their body and their artform.
Isabelle Brouwers, English National Ballet (c) Alex Fine
Isabelle also looks back at her journey from Germany to the Royal Ballet School and English National Ballet School; her experience of joining ENB where she's risen through the ranks from the corps de ballet to First Artist.
Isabelle talks about picking up awards including Youth America Grand Prix (2007), Genée International Ballet Competition (Silver Medal 2013), Young British Dancer of the Year in 2013 with nominations in 2015 & 2016, and ENB's Emerging Dancer Finalist in 2017.
As Isabelle looks to the future, she discusses how Covid is affecting the upcoming season that would normally see her touring the UK and the world. And after six years with the company, she's drawing on her experiences of working with acclaimed choreographers like Akram Khan and the hope of performing his new work 'Creature' later this year, to keep her inspired as the dance world and devoted audiences wait for live performances to recommence and for the show to go on.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/2Isabelle+Brouwers.mp3
Isabelle Brouwers, English National Ballet (c) Nathan Carlson
Isabelle Brouwers, English National Ballet (c) Alexander Yip
In this podcast, National Ballet of Canada acclaimed Principal dancer and award winning Associate Choreographer Guillaume Côté talks about his 22 year career with the company that has fostered his drive to create roles and new ballets and perform across the world with companies including La Scala Theatre Ballet, English National Ballet, The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, The Hamburg Ballet and Stuttgart Ballet.
Guillaume is also the Artistic Director of Festival des Arts de Saint-Sauveur - one of the largest summer dance festivals in Canada. This year’s 29th festival is forging ahead and responding to the challenges of covid by launching a new project called 'A Shared Solitude', with 20 artists, 20 creations, forming 1 voice. Each week from 5 July works will be released online from artists including:
Daina Ashbee on a score by Alejandra Odgers performed by flautist Caroline SéguinMarie Chouinard on a score by Louis Dufort performed by percussionist Alexandre LavoieGuillaume Côté with Yannick Nézet-Séguin at the piano on a score by Éric ChampagneAnne Plamondon on a score by Cléo Palacio-Quintin performed by trombonist Patrick RicherCrazy Smooth on a score by Marc Hyland performed by clarinetist Simon Aldrich
Listen to Guillaume talk about the how the 20 artists have created works during lockdown, life as a principal dancer, his love of music, his passion for ballet, being a dad and his partnership with his wife, fellow principal dancer Heather Ogden.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/2Guillaume+Cote.mp3
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Guillaume Côté. Photo by Aleksandar Antonijevic (courtesy of The National Ballet of Canada)
Guillaume Côté. Photo by Karolina Kuras
In this podcast, Royal Ballet First Soloist Mayara Magri and Choreographer Ruth Mair Howard-Jones talk about creating the lockdown dance film 'Sono Con Te', which translates in English to 'I Am With You'.
Sono Con Te features 29 dancers from 18 countries and companies including Royal Ballet, Royal Swedish Ballet, Cape Town City Ballet, New Adventures and more. These artists have come together to share the message of love and unity during these challenges times.
Listen to Ruth and Mayara talk about the inspiration behind the film, the creative process, filming with social distancing on the quiet streets of London.
Sono Con Te is out now - watch on YouTube.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/Mayara+Magri.mp3
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In this podcast, Royal Ballet Artist Leticia Dias joins us from Rio where she has been staying with her family during lockdown.
Listen to Leticia talk about growing up and studying ballet in Rio, winning a Prix de Lausanne scholarship that took her to the Royal Ballet Upper School at the age of 16. She describes her experience of adjusting to life in the city, the amazing performance opportunities she received while at the school and joining the Birmingham Royal Ballet before finding her home with The Royal Ballet.
Leticia shares her life as an artist of the company, how she's dealing with life in lockdown, staying in shape and taking care of her health and wellbeing, plus dancing in lockdown dance film 'SONO CON TE', (which means I Am With You in English). Created by Ruth Mair Howard-Jones, and choreographed via Zoom to share the message of love and unity during these challenging times.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/leticia.mp3
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Good news feels a little hard to come by these days. So it's exciting to see the critically acclaimed, award winning BalletBoyz 20th anniversary celebrations continuing with an online presentation of Deluxe by Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London.
Sadler’s Wells will showcase Deluxe as part of new Digital Stage - a free online performance platform, created in response to the cancellation of shows across its theatres as part of efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Deluxe will form part of the launch on Friday 27 March 2020, World Theatre Day, which can be accessed via Sadler’s Wells Facebook page at 7.30 pm and will be available for seven days - so mark this in your diaries!
Just as Covid-19 was starting to hit London, we interviewed BalletBoyz Artistic Directors, former Royal Ballet Dancers Michael Nunn and William Trevitt. Michael and William talk in this podcast about leaving The Royal Ballet after 12 years to create their own company and moving from classical to modern dance. They also look back at the pieces that are special to the company, talk about their studio process and share what makes a BalletBoyz dancer.
With a long history of dance filmmaking, Michael and William talk about making the stunning Romeo and Juliet, winning the Palm d’Or, and their next dance film project (you’ll have to listen to find out which classical ballet they’re taking to the screen next!).
Listen to the Artistic Directors talk about the choreographers of the two pieces in Deluxe - Shanghai-based dancer and choreographer Xie Xin and Punchdrunk choreographer Maxine Doyle.
We’re so excited that Deluxe is coming to Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage on 27 March 2020 at 7.30pm.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/BalletBoyz2.mp3 Also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and with other podcast providers! BalletBoyz presents Deluxe. Photo by George Piper
Michael Nunn and William Trevitt. Photo by Rick Guest.
Christine Shevchenko, Principal, American Ballet Theatre shares her journey from Ukraine to the States, becoming the youngest recipient of the Princess Grace Award, rising through the ranks of ABT from corps de ballet to soloist and being promoted to principal.
Listen to Christine talk about her love of ABT inspired by ballet greats Dame Alicia Markova and Mikhail Baryshnikov. She also gives an insight into life as a principal dancer, her approach to preparing for new roles, how to maintain her body and prevent injuries; plus how she relaxes outside of the studio (ps it includes cakes and cookies!).
Christine talks about preparing for a busy season with Giselle, Swan Lake and Theme and Variations (check dates and programme) and shares her advice for aspiring dancers.
Following Christine on IG.
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Christine Shevchenko. Photo by NYCDanceProject Ken Browar and Deborah Ory
Christine Shevchenko. Photo by Rod Brayman
In this podcast, Sir Richard Alston looks back over his 50-year career that included training with Merce Cunningham, leading Rambert as artistic director and establishing his own company Richard Alston Dance Company more than 25 years ago, building it into one of the most renowned contemporary dance companies and forging a critically acclaimed and award-winning choreographic career comprising more than 100 works.
Listen to Richard talk about his decision to fold his company due to a lack of funding from the UK's Arts Council and how he has responded by looking to the next stage in his choreographic career that's sees him take up the role of Resident Choreographer with the New York Theatre Ballet.
Richard Alston Dance Company - Detour. Photo by Chris Nash
This podcast shares a unique opportunity to hear from one of the most important living contemporary dance choreographers of our time, and listen to his own words as he describes how he creates new work, his inspirations and special moments from his esteemed career.
Richard Alston Dance Company is saying farewell with a tour entitled 'The Final Edition’, which is coming to London’s Sadler's Wells on 7 & 8 March, giving his devoted audiences an opportunity to say goodbye to a company that they have loved and grown up with over the years.
If you’re in Cambridge you can see The Final Edition on 2 & 3 March - for tickets: www.richardalstondance.com
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Richard Alston. Photo by Hugo Glendinning
In this podcast, British-born choreographer, performer and educator, Freddie Opoku-Addaie shares his journey from East London to studying at London’s top contemporary dance school and going on to create a successful freelance career working with renowned companies such as Clod Ensemble, Candoco Dance Company, Arthur Pita, Wayne McGregor’s Random Dance and more.
Freddie is also the Founder and Artistic Director of SystemsLAB, a platform that gives opportunities to a range of artists to showcase their work. Listen to Freddie talk about curating the SystemsLAB mixed bill, featuring the work of THĒO INART, Becky Namgauds, Ffion Campbell-Davies/ tyroneisaacstuart and hip hop legend Jonzi D; through which he raises interesting and important questions about contemporary dance history and the framework and voices within the industry.
SystemsLAB Triple Bill is showing 6 March at University of Canterbury and 12 and 13 March at Trinity Laban.
Follow Freddie and SystemLabs on Instagram!
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In this podcast, Eduardo Vilaro, Artistic Director and CEO of Ballet Hispanico, choreographer and former principal dancer talks about his dance career, training with Martha Graham Company and The Alvin Ailey School, launching his own company and leading America’s leading Latino dance organisation.
This year Ballet Hispanico celebrates their 50th Anniversary. Listen to Eduardo talk about curating the celebratory programme that features renowned choreographers Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, William Forsythe, Nacho Duato, Andrea Miller, Ramón Oller, Vicente Nebrada, Pedro Ruiz, Graciela Daniele, as well as a piece of his own.
Ballet Hispanico - Melissa Verdecia. Photo by Rachel Neville
Eduardo also shares the history of the company and his vision for its future, plus the important education and community work to explore and engage more dancers and audiences in Latino culture and dance. He also gives his insights into the challenges facing dancers today and has some words of advice.
Ballet Hispanico 50th Anniversary programme is heading on a USA and international tour – check dates and locations here.
Follow Eduardo and Ballet Hispanico on Instagram: @ervilaro @ballethispanico
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Ballet Hispanico - Antonio Cangiano and Shelby Colona. Photo by Rachel Neville
Eduardo Vilaro Headshot with Flower. Photo by Rachel Neville
Jennifer Archibald, Choreographer and Artistic Director of Arch Dance Company, is set to premiere her new work for Nashville Ballet as part of their 'Other Voices' programme.
Other Voices brings together four renowned choreographers to create new works that explore gender.
Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling set 4 questions for the choreographers:
- what does it mean to be a man
- what does it mean to be a woman
- what does it mean to be both
- what does it mean to be neither
In this podcast, Jennifer talks about how she created work in response to: 'what does it mean to be a woman', plus she describes her process for working with dancers.
Nashville Ballet - Other Voices
She also shares her journey from training with The Alvin Ailey School to becoming a choreographer and creating work for top companies across the USA, including the Atlanta Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Memphis Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, Tulsa Ballet II, and Ailey II.
Jennifer Archibald is also the Founder and Artistic Director of the Arch Dance Company and she gives an insight into running her own company and choreographing for her dancers.
Check out Nashville Ballet's 'Other Voices' programme dates here.
Follow Jennifer Archibald and Arch Dance Company on Instagram!
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/Jennifer+Archibald.mp3
Also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other podcast providers!
In this podcast with Lizzie Gough - dancer, choreographer, TV dance judge and mentor - we discuss life of a freelance artist and her upcoming role in Kate Prince's 'A Message In A Bottle'.
Lizzie gives us an insight into how she created a successful freelance street dance career in the UK and abroad, that has included exciting projects in dance, theatre, film and TV. You may have seen Lizzie on So You Think You Can Dance, where she came third, and she's been featured on the BBC, plus danced in music videos, commercials and on stage in shows like ZooNation's smash-hit sensation Some Like It Hip Hop.
Lizzie is not only dancing in Kate Prince's ‘A Message In A Bottle’, she's also the Assistant Choreographer. Listen to Lizzie share her experience working with Kate Prince and music from Sting in this show that deals with the important issue of refugees through dance.
This podcast gives a great insight into the life of a freelancer, how it works, the challenges, what it's like to audition, how to deal with injuries as Lizzie shares her advice for other dancers looking to build a freelance career.
Check out Lizzie in ‘A Message In A Bottle’ at Sadler’s Wells from 6 February to 21 March 2020.
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Lizzie Gough. Photo by Roos van der Hoeven
Message in a Bottle. Photo by Johan Persson
In this podcast, Dwight Rhoden, Complexions Contemporary Ballet co-Founder, co-Artistic Director and Choreographer, talks about his dance career that kicked off at the late age of 17 and led him to become a principal dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, before setting up his own company.
Together with the legendary Desmond Richardson, they founded the groundbreaking and award-winning Complexions Contemporary Ballet in 1994. Listen to Dwight share his journey from dancer to choreographer and creating over 60 works for Complexions and other top companies around the world.
Dwight also gives us an insight into his role as Artistic Director, and what type of dancer he looks for to join the company. Through his work with Complexions Contemporary Ballet Education Initiatives, Dwight aims to inspire nextgen dancers and he shares with us his words of advice to help dancers succeed.
New York-based Complexions is heading on tour across Germany, and Dwight has a full roster of new and remounted work with the Atlanta Ballet - Heart/Beat that features live gospel music, Pittsburg Ballet with Simon Says to music by Paul Simon and new work with the West Australian Ballet. Check out dates and location here.
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Also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts!
Dwight Rhoden
Complexions Ballet's Jared Brunson & Daniela O'Neil - THEGINGERB3ARDMEN
In this podcast former principal dancer and Artistic Director of the Joffrey Ballet, Ashley Wheater talks about his experience of leading the company for the last 13 years.
Born in Scotland, Ashley was recently appointed MBE by the Queen for his exceptional service to dance in the UK.
Ashley began his esteemed career training at The Royal Ballet School before joining the London Festival Ballet (now English National Ballet) and moving across the world to dance with The Australian Ballet and then onto the Joffrey Ballet and finally the San Francisco Ballet until he retired following an injury.
Joffrey Artists Greig Matthews and Amanda Assucena. Photo by Cheryl Mann.
Listen to Ashley share his experience of working with ballet greats including Frederick Ashton, George Balanchine, William Forsythe, David Bintley and more, plus acclaimed choreographers Christopher Wheeldon, Cathy Marsden, Stephanie Martinez, Justin Peck, Yuri Possokhov...and the list continues!
As Artistic Director, Ashley gives an insight into building on the legacy of founding director, choreographer and dancer Robert Joffrey, what he looks for in dancers, how a company without a hierarchy works, his advice for the next generation of dancers, plus his vision for the future.
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In this podcast, Precious Adams, English National Ballet, First Artist shares her journey from the US to training in Canada, Europe and Moscow, before moving to the UK to dance with the English National Ballet. Precious is a rising ballet star who is celebrated for her artistry, technique and her contributions to improving diversity in the dance industry.
We featured Precious in The Wonderful World of Dance Magazine (Act 5) along with stunning photos captured by Dean Barucija, Pickled Thoughts Photography which showcase her elegance and stunning lines.
Listen to Precious talk about how she uses her varied training in the studio as she switches from Russian to English technique, her transition into company and touring life at ENB as well as how she deals with the demands of dance life, studying and building a side business.
Precious is an inspiration and a role model for aspiring dancers and she gives great advice and insights into life as a professional ballerina.
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Precious Adams. Photo by Pickled Thoughts
Alina Cojocaru is the much loved principal with the English National Ballet and guest artist with the Hamburg Ballet who has garnered adoring fans and numerous accolades throughout her illustrious career.
We're in for a real treat as Alina is presenting her own curated programme of classical and contemporary pieces at Sadler's Wells Theatre, simply called: 'Alina at Sadler's Wells'.
In this podcast, Alina talks about how she selected each piece for her programme that includes Sir Frederick Ashton’s divine Marguerite and Armand. She also gives a heartfelt introduction to the special guests who'll be joining her on stage, including her partner the Danish ballet star Johan Kobborg.
The softly spoken ballerina shares her experience gained from dancing with The Royal Ballet, Kiev National Ballet, Hamburg Ballet and ENB. She takes us behind the scenes of her dance life and gives an insight into curating her own show. And lastly, Alina gives some pearls of wisdom for the next generation of dancers, some of which may be surprising.
A wonderful conversation with an incredible dancer, a deeply considered artist and an inspiring woman.
Alina at Sadler's Wells runs from 20 to 23 February.
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Alina Cojocaru. Photo by Morgan Norman
Alina Cojocaru and Johan Kobborg. Photo by Morgan Norman
The critically acclaimed award-winning Annabelle Lopez Ochoa is a choreographer that you need to know. A prolific artist, she has created dance works for over 60 top ballet and dance companies including: English National Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Finnish National Ballet, The Washington Ballet, Ballet Black, Dance Theatre of Harlem and so many more.
Annabelle has recently been bestowed another award, receiving the Jacob’s Pillow Choreography Award to add to her long list of accolades.
In this podcast, Annabelle shares her inspiration for the many unique works that she's choreographed, including the incredible biopic of Frida Kahlo 'Broken Wings' created for ENB, which she has turned into a full length ballet for the Dutch National Ballet (premiering in February), plus the award-winning A Street Car Named Desire.
Listen to Annabelle talk about her career as a professional dancer, her move to create full-time, her creative process and how she works with dancers to devise stunning works for theatre, opera, musical theatre and dance.
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Katja Khaniukova as Frida with ENB Artists in Annabelle Lopez Ochoa's Broken Wings. Photo by Laurent Liotardo
In this podcast we take a look at the life of one of the most visionary and influential choreographers in the world, Merce Cunnigham.
The legendary dancer and choreographer's journey from struggling artist to rejected and misunderstood creator and finally to becoming a celebrated icon, is told in a beautiful new 3D film simply titled ‘Cunningham’.
Dance filmmaker Alla Kovgan shares her experience of bringing the artist and his work to the screen through archive footage of the man himself talking about his ideas, his creative process and his perseverance that saw him defy all detractors as he developed a new technique and a body of work that challenged the way people thought about dance.
The 3D element adds to the film, making it an immersive experience as you become absorbed into the Cunningham's world and go inside his dance company and hear from dancers who worked with him over the years. The film shows excerpts from a wide range of Cunningham's works from 1944–1972, that are re-imagined and presented in unique locations such as rooftops, forests, gardens, modern buildings and more.
Listen to Alla talk about the inspiration for the film, her insights into dance filmmaking and discovering the man behind the movement and exploring the collaborations with visual artist Robert Rauschenberg and composer John Cage.
You can watch Cunningham in cinemas across UK, Europe and US, for locations and dates from December 2019 check out: cunninghamfilm.com
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Merce Cunningham in Antic Meet. Photo by Richard Rutledge
Merce Cunningham's Second Hand. Photo by Martin Miseré
Merce Cunningham's Suite For Two. Photo by Martin Miseré
Merce Cunningham's SUMMERSPACE. Photo by Mko Malkshasyan
The decision for any dancer or creator to move from their hometown to the big city, whether across the country or to the other side of the world, is often a daunting and exciting prospect. It's not just the actual relocation or the unknown, but there's also the challenge of finding a place and success within a new, larger dance scene.
In this podcast, Australian contemporary dancer and choreographer Alice Robinson shares her journey from Australia to London and premiering her first full-length immersive show 'Does It Matter In the Dark' in the capital.
As a freelance artist, Alice has worked and toured, both as a dancer and creator, across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. She then decided to head to the big smoke of London, where she has found a space for her creativity and has built a community over the last year to create Does It Matter In The Dark.
Alice shares her insights into freelance life; the highs, the joy and the challenges. She also shares her creative process that led to the 'choose your own adventure, immersive experience' that audiences can expect in her new work.
Does It Matter In The Dark premieres on 2 November (Sold Out Show!) and 3 November (just a few remaining tickets) at Onyx Dance Studio, London. For tickets email Alice directly: alicerobinsoncreative@gmail.com.
Watch the trailer! Follow Alice on Instagram: @alicerobinson_
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Alice Robinson
In this podcast, we're joined by Subhash Gorania, a cutting-edge, British choreographer and dancer and Artistic Director of Morph Dance Company.
Subhash creates works that blends Indian classical dance, hip-hop and contemporary dance and has a very unexpected dance story.
At the age of 23, Subhash was stacking tins in the supermarket (after having to drop out of uni after being injured), when he noticed a flyer for a hip-hop class, and without any previous dance experience decided to give it go. Instantly he fell in love with dance and one class a week became two, then three and this led to a professional dance career, creating his own work and establishing his own company.
Listen to Subhash tell his inspiring story ahead of the world premiere of his first full length work 'Classic Encounters' hitting the stage on 15 and 23 October.
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In this podcast, we talk to principal dancer Mi Deng, who is one of the most famous and successful ballerinas from China. We discuss her role as the Princess in the innovative high- tech show, Sleeping Beauty Dreams.
Mi Deng gives an insight into the stunning visuals created by the dancers who are hooked up to the technology; and she shares the challenges as a dancer working with the tech (it doesn’t sound easy!).
Listen to Mi also talks about growing up and dancing in China and her worldwide dance career, plus her inspiration for setting up her own dance school in her home country.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/Mi+Deng.mp3
Mi Deng
In this podcast episode we discuss the important subject of dancer mental health and wellbeing, with former Royal Ballet dancer and dance counsellor Terry Hyde.
Former Royal Ballet dancer and counsellor Terry Hyde
We shine a light on the challenges faced by dancers, including depression, injury, rejection, confidence, and performance anxiety. Terry talks about his own dance career and how his unique perspective helps him help other dancers.
It is essential that mental health and wellbeing is talked about within the dance industry; between dancers, and their companies or schools, and their friends and colleagues.
Terry discusses some of the symptoms that dancers may experience, including feeling low, wanting to be alone, and not wanting to talk about their feelings with others.
Listen to Terry talk about how counselling can help dancers through these difficult periods so they can go on to enjoy fulfilling careers. He also explores the challenges faced by dancers and their sense of identity when their dance careers come to an end.
If you're experiencing or are interested in dancer mental health issues, Terry recommends talking about your feelings, asking for support and reaching out. You can learn more at counsellingfordancers.com
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/terry+hyde.mp3
The podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and other podcast providers! You can also read the interview here!
Dance creation is ever changing and evolving with the influence of new technologies on sound, lighting, staging, visualisations and performance.
Critically acclaimed choreographer and dancer Tom Dale is an innovator in bringing these elements together to create new ways of experience and performing dance. Taking this tech approach to a new level, Tom Dale's new work Step Sonic sees the dancers' movements and breath create the live soundscape. The dancers movement affects and makes the sound, which is picked up by a series of microphones.
In this podcast, Tom Dale reveals the inspiration behind Step Sonic and explains how the piece was made with the dancers and their experience of performing this tech and sound led piece.
Step Sonic kicks off a 10 date UK tour from 27 October, check out the dates & location.
Step Sonic also features two new commissions for Tom Dale Company: Resonance of Air by Eleesha Drennan and a new work by Jamal Burkmar; the premiere of Tom Dale’s solo Surge completes the programme.
https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/Tom+Dale.mp3
In the podcast we talk about the below video of the early research work:
Tom Dale Dance Company - Step Sonic. Photo by Alicia Clarke
Every so often you come across a personal story that must be told and shared. Cutting edge dance theatre creator and performance artist, Stuart Waters, tells his story of depression, addiction and destruction in a new autobiographical work Rock Bottom.
In this podcast, Stuart candidly shares his deeply personal journey and talks with honesty about the challenges he's faced and how he hit his 'rock bottom'. He also shares how he has drawn on these times and found the strength to rebuild his life and continue his 20-year career of creating powerful dance theatre to create Rock Bottom.
"...it's a painfully revealing, highly physical look at mental health and that sometimes elusive thing called happiness..."
Rock Bottom has received rave reviews and after showing at The Place in London earlier this month, it is heading on a 3 date UK tour:
October 2nd – Birmingham Midlands Arts CentreOctober 8th – Cornwall, Truro College Helford TheatreOctober 9th – University of Plymouth
Find out more: www.stuartwaters.info
https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/stuart+waters.mp3
https://youtu.be/mmvwR7jg5BY
'Rockbottom' by Stuart Waters live photos by Rosie Powell
'Rockbottom' by Stuart Waters live photos by Rosie Powell for Oxford Mail
Stuart Waters in 'ROCKBOTTOM' photo by Joe Armitage for Oxford Mail
In this podcast, Australian born Rose Alice - ballet dancer, choreographer and Artistic Director of the International Arts Collective - shares her experience of forging her own path as a successful and inspiring freelance artist.
Trained at prestigious ballet schools that includes the École de Danse Classique in France and Basel Theatre Ballet School, Rose Alice was a finalist at the distinguished Prix de Lausanne.
Rose Alice. Photo by Nik Pate.
After moving to the UK, Rose Alice has been defining her own dance career which has seen her voice as a choreographer lead her to working with world-famous artists and brands (Tiffany & Co for example) across the world. Each and every artist of International Arts Collective has an undeniable talent/ability that cannot be defined by a specific country, race or culture. To say that our artists are unapologetically original is an understatement. To celebrate individuality through unity and collaboration is our biggest asset, to generate a positive change within the performance industry and our society whilst doing so is a humbling gift. Listen to Rose Alice talk about the creating projects that bring together ballet, fashion, DJs and film. She also gives us an insight into her experience of founding the International Arts Collective, how choreographing work for film and stage differs, and how she is inspiring the next generation of dancers.
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In this podcast we talk with Sadler's Wells Young Associate Ruby Portus who is a dancer and choreographer using her voice to tackle sociopolitical issues in a playful way.
Listen to Ruby talk about how the Sadler's Wells Young Associates programme has helped develop her work, reach a wider audience and build her emerging choreographic career.
Ruby also talks about what it means to be a young female creator and how she is using her voice to inspire change and conversation. She shares her approach to creating new work and gives us an insight into what she's bringing to Sadler's.
Sadler's Wells Young Associates are showcasing their final work after a two year programme on 17 July.
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https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/ruby.mp3
In this podcast, we talk to Birmingham Royal Ballet First Artist and Choreographer Ruth Brill about her decision to hang up her pointe shoes to focus on a full-time choreographic career.
Ruth talks about her distinguished ballet career that saw her dance with the English National Ballet for 5 years before heading to Birmingham Royal Ballet - a company that became her home for the last 7 years and who nurtured her choreographic talent.
Ruth talks about her decision to retire from the stage as she was heading towards her last performance in the company's final programme in London under the directorship of the esteemed David Bintley CBE.
As part of Birmingham Royal Ballet's [Un]leashed at Sadler's Wells, Ruth presented her reimagined Peter and The Wolf, which the audience absolutely loved. Listen to Ruth talk about how she created this modern ballet, working to a complex brief.
She also talks about the future as a freelance choreographer and her upcoming projects including her role as Interim Artistic Director/Choreographer for National Youth Ballet, plus creating works for London Childen's Ballet.
PRESS PLAY.
https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/Ruth+Brill.mp3
Ruth Brill. Photo by Alex Fine
Ruth Brill in class ©Tim Cross
Birmingham Royal Ballet - Peter and the Wolf: Laura Day as Peter. Photo by Andrew Ross
Natalia Osipova has often been described as an enigma, as a dancer who keeps her audiences on the edge of their seats with pure but unpredictable performances, that makes you hold your breathe, as you never know what you're about to experience until this star steps on stage.
I had the privilege of being invited into Natasha's (yes she prefers to be called Natasha, although Natalia is the name on her passport!) home to meet her two gorgeous dogs and her new fiancé, fellow Royal Ballet dancer Jason Kittelberger.
We discussed her journey from Russia and the Bolshoi to The Royal Ballet, the challenges and disappointments she's faced throughout her career, how she prepares to perform and manages the anxiety and emotions that are the driving force of her powerful performances. We talk about her experience of being filmed for Force of Nature Natalia, how she prepared for the dark role in Arthur Pita's The Mother and much more...
This podcast is a recording of the video interview conducted with the wonderful translation by Alice Terekhof. We didn't plan for this to be a podcast, but the conversation was so honest and revealing that we just had to share.
Natalia Osipova is premiering Arthur Pita's The Mother with Jonathan Goddard (read our interview here) at Southbank 20-22 June; she then heads off to Japan with the Royal Ballet and then returns for the next season in London and also presents her own programme Pure Dance at Sadler's Wells 22-26 October. Her documentary Force of Nature Natalia is out at Curzon cinemas across the UK.
LISTEN TO NATALIA OSIPOVA IN HER OWN WORDS - PRESS PLAY!
https://djwpodcasts.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1wwwod/Natalia+Osipova.mp3
'The Mother' featuring Natalia Osipova photo by Anastasia Tikhonova
Natalia Osipova_Pure Dance Leaves are Fading -Dancer Natalia Osipova. Photo by Johan Persson
In this podcast, we explore the incredible photographic book released by dancer Marjorie Goodson titled 'MG'. The stunning hard cover coffee table style book features spectacular photos of Majorie Goodson photographed by Andreea Radutoiu.
Majorie’s dance career spans three decades and this glossy book captures her in photos that are raw, gritty and sensual.
Listen to Marjorie talk about the inspiration for the photos and how each of these incredible photographic essays were created and captured.
Majorie is an inspiration and her book showcases her creativity, physicality and at 54 she challenges perceptions that dancers have an expiration date.
We love the book so much that we’ve featured it in our magazine!
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Marjorie+Goodson.mp3
Marjorie Goodson. Photo by Andreea Radutoiu
Marjorie Goodson. Photo by Andreea Radutoiu
Marjorie Goodson. Photo by Andreea Radutoiu
In this podcast with Norwegian choreographer Alan Lucien Øyen, we discuss the work and company of one of the most important choreographers of the twentieth century, Pina Bausch.
Alan Lucien Øyen is one of two choreographers (along with Dimitris Papaioannou) who has been given the honour of creating a new piece with the company Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch, following the death of Pina Bausch a decade ago.
Listen to Alan talk about his experience of working with the 36 dancers from 3 generations in the same studio where Pina's unique and extraordinary creative process changed the dance world.
Alan gives us a glimpse into this astounding company that continues to push the creative boundaries of dance and shares how he immersed himself with the artists to create Bon Voyage, Bob, being premiered in London at Sadler's Wells.
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Also available on Apple and Google Podcasts, Spotify and other podcast providers! Alan Lucien Øyen. Photo by Siren Høyland Sæter
Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch — Bon Voyage, Bob - Alan Lucien Øyen. Photo by Mats Bäcker
Principal dancer Yolanda Correa was born in Cuba where she studied ballet before joining the National Ballet of Cuba. After only 5 years she was quickly promoted to Prima Ballerina and enjoyed a wonderful career performing in her home country.
After 10 years with the company, she made the surprising decision to head to Europe to learn and push herself as a dancer and an artist.
Listen to Yolanda talk about dancing with Víctor Ullate Ballet before joining Norwegian National Ballet in Oslo where she danced for 8 years before making the decision to join the Berlin State Ballet.
Yolanda is truly effervescent, she bubbles with energy, enthusiasm and positivity. She talks with joy about being a dancer, about her love of daily class and time working in the studio.
In this podcast, she shares her favourite roles, the ups and downs of a ballet career, and why she loves to dance. We also learn some surprising things about Yolanda as she talks about future aspirations and other skills that you might not expect!
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Yolanda Correa in Manon. Photo by Erik Berg
Yolanda Correa as Kitri in Don Quixote, the Norwegian National Ballet 2011.
Royal Ballet principal dancer Thiago Soares is celebrating his 20 years ballet career and 14 years with this prestigious ballet company.
Thiago was born in Rio de Janeiro, where surprisingly he first started dancing hip-hop before he discovered ballet, which was to change his life forever.
In this podcast, Thiago shares the highlights and challenges over the last two decades as he rose to become a celebrated principal dancer with The Royal Ballet. He also talks about dancing with Marianela Nuñez, producing his own ballet gala and life with The Royal Ballet.
Thiago's dance journey has been captured in a new film called 'Principal Dancer', which follows Thiago from London back to Brazil as he presents a star-studded ballet show in his home country.
Still from the documentary 'Primeiro Bailarino' about Royal Ballet principal Thiago Soares
Listen to Thaigo talk about the making of Principal Dancer, which is an exceptionally raw behind the scenes emotional and honest account of a ballet dancer's life on and off stage.
Thiago is an inspiration for male dancers across the world and his achievements as a dancer has seen him recently awarded the highest cultural award in Brazil.
Feature image of Thiago Soares by Daryan Dornelles
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Thaigo.mp3
Still from Principal Dancer': Royal Ballet principal Thiago Soares with Kevin O'Hare, Director of The Royal Ballet
Thiago Soares. Photo by Clement Yves Jolin
Stephenie Herman is a former ballerina who has danced with Mikhail Baryshnikov and Rudolph Nureyev and was a protégé of legendary choreographer George Balanchine.
In this podcast episode Stephanie shares her memories of these ballet legends and gives us an insight from a ballerina's unique point of view. Stephanie became a principal dancer at just 19 and moved from the US to Zurich to train with Balanchine.
Stephanie shares her dance journey and experience of suffering from injuries that affected her ballet career, and led her to creating her own Pilates Ballet programme.
But Stephanie's creativity has been unstoppable! She's also recently created a Gold Award winning ballet play and film: 'Ballerina: A One Woman Play with Stephanie Herman'. Listen to her talk about creating this personal and inspired play.
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Stephanie Herman. Photo by Azita Gandjei
Stephanie Herman. Photo by Azita Gandjei
Stephanie Herman. Photo by Azita Gandjei
Stephanie Herman in Agon
In this podcast, we talk to former (Royal) New Zealand Ballet dancer Matthew Lawrence about his journey from the southern tip of the world to the northern end of the Scottish Shetland isles, where he's created an important community dance school.
The Shetland Community Ballet School is a great example of a local dance school providing opportunities for young and mature dancers in remote locations, where the demand for dance classes and training may just surprise you.
Matthew's career has seen him starring on stage in in London and Europe, he's worked backstage, behind the scenes and in front of the studio.
Listen to Matthew's journey and his tales of other great dancers past, of life in Covent Garden in the 1980s and moving to the Shetland isles.
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Matthew Lawrence and Adrienne Arabian Nutcracker 1980
Matthew Lawrence and The Shetland Community Ballet School
Matthew Lawrence
Akram Khan is an extraordinary choreographer, whose work requires his dancers to adapt to his unique style of movement. In this podcast episode, we talk to two of Akram Khan Company dancers - Nicolas Ricchini and Dennis Alamanos - about what it feels like to perform Akram's work.
Nicolas and Dennis talk about their own journeys into the contemporary dance world, their decision to become freelance dancers and their experience of dancing with Akram Khan Company for the last 3 years.
The company is on a worldwide tour showcasing various works in different cities starting in Norway, to Singapore, Canada, China, USA and more. They are coming to London to perform Chotto Desh at Sadler's Wells (18-20 Oct).
Nicolas and Dennis also talk about their own creative collaboration and their advice for other freelance dancers.
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Akram+Dancer.mp3
Chotto Desh - Dancer Dennis Alamanos
Chotto Desh - Dancer Dennis Alamanos
Nicolas Ricchini. Photo by Alex Staffa
Dennis Alamanos
Royal Ballet First Soloist Beatriz Stix-Brunell gives us a unique insight into this famous company ahead of World Ballet Day, as she describes her typical day at the Royal Opera House, the company’s repertoire and the supportive and warm dancers that have become her dance family as she’s risen through the ranks over the last 8 years.
Beatriz reflects on her journey from New York to Paris to London, training with the American Ballet School, Paris Opera Ballet School and the acclaimed Fabrice Herrault, before being invited to join Christopher Wheeldon’s company Morphoses at just 14 years old.
Listen to Beatriz talk about her very first company class with The Royal Ballet at just 15 years old, what she loves most about dancing, favourite roles, her career highlights both in the studio and on stage, and her advice for future ballerinas.
Follow Beatriz on Instgram: @bstix_brunell
(Photo: Yasmine Naghdi, Tristan Dyer and Beatriz Stix-Brunell as Florestan and His Sisters in The Sleeping Beauty, The Royal Ballet)
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Beatriz+Stix-Brunel.mp3
World Ballet Day
SAVE THE DATE: 2 October 2018
WATCH: The Royal Ballet's live-stream broadcast via Facebook live
USE HASHTAG: #WorldBalletDay - to share your love
Beatriz Stix-Brunell as Alice and Rupert Pennefather as Jack in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, The Royal Ballet
Beatriz Stix-Brunell as Perdita and Vadim Muntagirov as Florizel in Act II of The Winter's Tale, The Royal Ballet
Beatriz Stix-Brunell, Olivia Cowley, Romany Pajdak and Artists of The Royal Ballet in The Concert, The Royal Ballet
Matthew Ball and Beatriz Stix-Brunell in Giselle, The Royal Ballet
American born Royal Ballet Soloist Tristan Dyer talks to us ahead of World Ballet Day (2 Oct), giving us an insight into life with the prestigious ballet company, his favourite roles, and how he prepares for the stage.
Listen to Tristan talk about what he loves most about dancing, what inspired him to join The Royal Ballet and one of his favourite career moments of dancing with the gorgeous Sarah Lamb (pictured above - photo by Bill Cooper).
Tristan also shares his experiences of studying with The Royal Ballet School, The Australian Ballet School, The National Ballet of Canada School and shares his advice for aspiring dancers.
Follow Tristan on Instagram: @tristandyer
You can read the interview here.
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Tristan+Dyer+Royal+Ballet.mp3 World Ballet Day SAVE THE DATE: 2 October 2018
WATCH: The Royal Ballet's live-stream broadcast via Facebook live
USE HASHTAG: #WorldBalletDay - to share your love
Tristan Dyer in rehearsal for The Age of Anxiety ©ROH. Bill Cooper 2014
Tristan Dyer and Yuhui Choe in rehearsal for Scènes de ballet, The Royal Ballet © ROH Tristram Kenton, 2014
Tristan Dyer and Akane Takada in rehearsal for Within the Golden Hour, The Royal Ballet © 2016 ROH. Photograph by Andrej Uspenski
Sarah Lamb as Elizabeth and Tristan Dyer as Victor in rehearsal for Frankenstein, The Royal Ballet © 2016 ROH. Photograph by Bill Cooper
Leticia Stock as Clara, Tristan Dyer as Hans Peter and Artists of The Royal Ballet in The Nutcracker, The Royal Ballet © 2017 ROH. Photographed by Karolina Kuras
This is a story of love, creativity and passion. In this podcast we discover the story of two dancers and choreographers - Rae Piper and Paul Chantry - whose chance meeting changed the course of their lives, both as dancers and people.
Listen to Rae and Paul talk about their remarkable 6 year journey that led them to creating Chantry Dance Company, debuting at London's famous Sadler's Wells, establishing the Chantry School of Contemporary & Balletic Arts, and launching a unique community outreach programme.
And if that wasn't enough, they also fitted in a wedding and honeymoon, a move from London to Lincolnshire, creating new works, become champions of their local area and have grown their own freelance careers!
Chantry Dance Company is taking their new ballet ‘Dracula - Welcome to D’s - on tour across the UK, with a world premiere at the Guildhall Arts Centre, Grantham.
The company will be performing from 21 September to 14 October 2018 in towns and cities such as Stamford, Worcester, Andover, Horsham, Halifax, Lincoln, London, and Manchester.
Shannon Parker, ex-dancer with Northern Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet and Ballet Du Rhin, and finalist on Britain’s Got Talent with her partner, Peter Parker, will be performing the role of Lucy in ‘Dracula - Welcome to D’s’ UK Tour.
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Dracula and Mina. Photo by Dani Bower
Paul Chantry and Rae Piper. Photo by Jim Markland
Paul Chantry and Rae Piper. Photo by Mark Parvin
The international dance sensation Carlos Acosta is celebrating his 30 year dance career by performing alongside his company Acosta Danza at London's Royal Albert Hall, 2-5 October.
In this podcast episode, Carlos Acosta shares his greatest moments from his dance career, his favourite roles that he's danced, his experience of creating his own dance company and his advice for the next generation of dancers.
Listen to Carlos talk about growing up in Cuba, the youngest of 11 children in an improvised family and how dance changed his life. He reflects on his career with The Royal Ballet, becoming an acclaimed choreographer and life after retiring from the stage.
Carlos Acosta - A Celebration. Photo: Manuel Vasson
Carlos tells us about the works being presented at the Royal Albert Hall, including the UK premiere of Christopher Bruce’s Rooster, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui’s critically acclaimed Mermaid, and a reworked version of Acosta’s Carmen full of Latin influences and accompanied by a live orchestra.
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Argentinian-born Herman Cornejo joined the American Ballet Theatre almost two decades ago, rising through the ranks to principal dancer in 2003. His stellar career has seen him dance all the major roles, working with an impressive roster of choreographers and artists, receiving multiple nominations, awards and distinctions.
And he's just about to add another award to the collection, with the honour of the prestigious 'Positano Premia la Danza' 2018 Award as a 'Dancer of the Year'.
Herman Cornejo and Alessandra Ferri. Photo by Lucas Chilczuk
Herman follows an esteemed line of dancers who have been bestowed this award, including Margot Fonteyn, Rudolf Nureyev, Vladimir Vasiliev, Ekaterina Maximova, Natalia Makarova, Carla Fracci, Alessandra Ferri, Roberto Bolle, Alicia Alonso, Uliana Lopatkina, Ivan Vassiliev, Natalia Osipova, Yuri Grigorovich, Mats Ek, Ana Laguna, Lutz Förster, Vladimir Vassiliev.
The Wonderful World of Dance has attended the glamorous award ceremony, that takes place in Positano, Italy every year.
In this podcast episode, Herman talks about what it means to receive this award, as he prepares to head to the Amalfi Coast for the star-studded gala event.
Listen to Herman talk about growing up and dancing in Buenos Aires, his move to the US and joining the American Ballet Theatre, the company of his dreams and his special relationship with the incredible Alessandra Ferri.
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Herman Cornejo and Alessandra Ferri. Photo by Lucas Chilczuk
Herman Cornejo and Alessandra Ferri. Photo by Lucas Chilczuk
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo - the multi-award winning all-male, comedy ballet company - is set to tour UK/Ireland from September to October. Although a comic ballet company, the dancers are serious trained artists. In this podcast, Italian born ballet dancer Alberto Pretto gives us an insight into the life in this company that's steeped in history and honoured with countless awards.
Alberto talks about his obsession with pointe shoes and learning to dance en pointe, and leaving a traditional dance company to join the all male company to dance the classical ballets in tutus and gorgeous costumes.
Listen to Alberto explain his hilarious stage names - Nina Immobilashvili & Stanislas Kokitch - his makeup routine, and life on the road with Les Trocks.
In his spare time (where does he find the time!), Alberto has launched his own dance wear range - Alby Pretty (check insta @albypretty). Alberto tells us about his love of dance and fashion and growing a business on the side of his dance career.
Book tickets for a show near you! The tour runs 8 weeks, over 12 venues beginning at The Peacock, London on 11 September and concluding at Grand Opera House, Belfast on 3 November.
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Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo - Paquita Group
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo - Les Sylphides Group
It is inspiring to see young dancers taking their futures into their own hands, creating their own companies and creating their own work.
Australian born Briar Adams is one of those inspiring ballet dancers. She left her home country to embark on a dance career in London - one of the toughest dance centres in the world - and alongside a successful 15 year career, Briar also created her own dance company, ‘Hack Ballet’.
Now in it's 6th year, Hack Ballet maintains it's mission of a strong aesthetic vision of the world as it is and as it could be – celebrating diversity and equality, tradition and originality.
As a choreographer, Briar creates thought provoking work, that blends classical ballet and contemporary dance techniques to create athletic, lyrical dance with a focus on social issues.
Briar Adams. Photo by James Markland
Listen to Briar talk about her dance journey, growing up and studying dance in Australia and her experience of coming to the UK and carving out a dance career and finding her own dance tribe.
Briar also shares her inspiration and experience of creating Hack Ballet and talks about her roles of Artistic Director, choreographer and dancer.
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Hack+Ballet.mp3
Hack Ballet goes to Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Briar has also set out to take Hack Ballet to this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe, to present 15 performances of “Elicitations”, a triple bill showcasing: To The Edge, Argil and Grace.
Watch the video and support Hack Ballet by contributing to their tour fund!
https://youtu.be/hr7sBbl6-qY
Briar Adams. Photo by James Markland
Briar Adams
Katie McCann is a former ballet dancer, a performer and dance teacher. She is also the founder of the innovative dance company and dance event 'Dance in the Parks', which presents dance in parks throughout the Chicago.
Katie is committed to showcasing dance across Chicago and giving the community the chance to see professional dancers on stage in their local area.
Dance In The Parks also gives many local dancers and dance students the chance to participate in this annual event, that is part of Chicago's Night Out In The Parks.
Cnidarian Allure choreographed by Thomas Mattingly 2015, in Kennedy Park Photo credit: NehamaShots
As a former professional dancer with Kentucky Ballet Theater, Katie maintains professional standards for Dance In The Parks. She holds a tough annual audition, where she puts the dancers through their paces to select those who best suited to the challenging dance event.
Listen to Katie talk about how she has grown Dance In The Parks almost single-handedly from a small event to one that has seen 10,000 people come to the event over the last 9 seasons.
Katie is an inspiration, she has taken an idea and built it into a celebrated event through sheer hard work. Her passion is unbound, matched by her determination and creative vision that delivers a professional and exciting experience for all.
Katie is celebrating the 10th season of Dance In The Park - support Dance In The Parks here.
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American choreographer, dancer, filmmaker and artist Juel D. Lane was voted Dance Magazine Top 25 To Watch and made history as the first black local independent choreographer from Atlanta to have a work commissioned by Atlanta Ballet.
In this podcast, Juel talks about growing up with severe anxiety as a child in Atlanta, Georgia and how dance gave him the confidence and creative outlet for his energy that took him from his hometown to dancing in New York City.
Juel D. Lane. Photo by Eric Politzer
Listen to Juel talk about his fast paced choreography that that addresses political and gender issues. As Juel says, he's a "black, gay, male dancer" and creates work that reflects his personal experiences.
Juel has also participated in the Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation New Directions Choreography Lab, and collaborated with dance legends across the United States.
As a passionate dance teacher, he's also helping shape the next generation of young contemporary dancers and inspiring others following in his footsteps.
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Juel D. Lane. Photo by Eric Politzer
BBC London Radio host Jo Good is a former dancer and avid dance lover. After a successful stage career she has forged a high profile career on London's airwaves.
Jo Good invited our editor, Savannah Saunders, to join the popular radio show to talk about the new and exciting launch of The Wonderful World of Dance magazine.
Listen to Jo Good asking Savannah about how she turned her passion into a beautiful magazine.
Jo Good goes through the glossy pages of the magazine and picks out some of her favourite photos and features.
Jo Good says that "it's the most beautiful dance magazine and one of a kind!" She loves the the stunning photos of Iana Salenko photographed by Dean Barucija of Pickled Thoughts Photography.
Also favourites are the dance history feature by our dance historian, Caroline Hamilton with images provided by the Royal Academy of Dance.
Jo Good loves the photos of Royal Ballet dancers by Rick Guest, as well as the gorgeously designed dance wear pages, fashion and travel section.
Listen to the BBC London Radio interview.
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London contemporary dance artist Valerie Ebuwa's work incorporates Hip Hop, African, Dancehall, Jazz and other movement forms such as Yoga and Capoeira.
Growing up in a family of lawyers, she carved out her own parth in pursuit of her passion for dance, which led her to performing internationally and being awarded the ‘Young Stoff’ award at Stockholm Fringe Festival.
Woman SRSLY by Henry Gorse and i-D Magazine. Performer Valerie Ebuwa
As a freelance dance artist, Valerie is also a dance teacher, model and dance writer for I am Hip Hop magazine and she shares her views and dance experience on her own blog.
Valerie is the host of Woman SRSLY – a female-led performance platform which champions bold new performance by female-identified and socialised female artists through platforms and networking support.
In this podcast show we discuss domestic violence, diversity and feminism, the challenges facing female artists in the dance industry and how Woman SRSLY is creating a voice for female creators.
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Valerie+Ebuwa.mp3
Italian ballerina Alice Mariani grew up in the rolling hills of Tuscany and went on to study at the prestigious La Scala Ballet School in Milan.
After a visit from Semperoper Ballett Aristic Director Aaron S. Watkin, Alice was invited to join the company in Dresden, Germany. In 2011 she joined the corps de ballet and has risen through the ranks to First Soloist.
She is currently preparing to perform a triple bill of the acclaimed choreographer William Forysthe's work in London (Sadler's Wells 21-23 June), which will be her first visit to the capital.
Listen to Alice talk about working with Forysthe in the studio and the feeling of performing his work on stage.
She also tells us about life as a First Soloist, and the joy of performing the company's repertoire of classical, neoclassical and contemporary works.
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Alice Mariani. Photo by Ani Collier
Alice Mariani and Jon Vallej - Gods and Dogs. Photo by Ian Whalen
Amir Lacey and Alice Mariani. The Four Seasons. Photo by Ian Whalen
Spanish born Jón Vallejo is a principal dancer with Semperoper Ballett (Dresden, Germany), a company with a long history with the acclaimed choreographer William Forsythe.
In this podcast, Jón shares his experience of working with Forsythe over his 12 year career with the company, and gives us an insight into how Forsythe breathes new life into his revered pieces to keep them fresh for the dancers and the audience.
Semperoper Ballett is showcasing three works by William Forsythe in triple bill All Forsythe, at London's Sadler's Wells (21 - 23 June).
The triple bill includes the groundbreaking In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated, which famously changed ballet forever, with its deconstruction of classical ballet technique.
Neue Suite, created especially for the company, is made up of a series of pas de deux choreographed between 1987 and 1999, which gives highlights of Forsythe’s repertoire.
Enemy in the Figure features 11 cavorting dancers, lit by a single spotlight.
Jón also shares with us what makes Semperoper Ballett unique and how they realise the artistic vision of "breaking down the borders that traditionally exist between classical and contemporary dance and redefining dance as a culmination of both."
Listen to his personal journey of growing up in the Spanish Basque country to becoming a principal dancer.
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/jon+vallejo.mp3
Alyssa Lisle is a 24 year old contemporary dancer born in the north east of England. She graduated with a 1st class BA (Hons) in Professional Dance Practise at Dance City, Newcastle upon Tyne.
In this podcast episode, Alyssa shares her experience of forging a career in the north east of England as a dancer and a dance teacher.
Alyssa talks about touring with Fertile Ground - the North East’s leading professional early career dance company.
The company is presenting 'Fully Grounded' (until 21 July), an exciting new double bill of world premieres from choreographers ReGina Wielingen and Robby Graham.
Listen to Alyssa talk about the opportunities for dancers in the north east, her experience of working with Fertile Ground, the two different choreographers and her aspirations for the future of the local dance scene.
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Alyssa Lisle. Photo by Ant Clark Fertile Ground:
Jinyeob Cha is a household name in Korea, after she was propelled to celebrity status as a judge on the Korean version of Dancing with the Stars. And while that has made Jinyeob a famous personality, it's her incredible choreography and celebrated career that has firmly established her as a pioneering Korean dance artist.
She was prestigiously chosen to choreograph the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics ceremonies, an opportunity that not only showcased Jinyeob's work to people in her own country, but introduced Korean contemporary dance to a worldwide audience.
Jinyeob Cha - Riverrun. Photo by Sang Hoon Ok
Jinyeob trained at the London Contemporary Dance School and has performed with the acclaimed Hofesh Shechter Company, an experience that shaped her own choreography and creative process.
Jinyeob is an innovator of Korean contemporary dance and after a decade of making work in Seoul, she is returning to present her work 'Riverrun' at the Festival of Korean Dance, being held in London at The Place, 9-16 May.
Jinyeob Cha - Riverrun. Photo by Sang Hoon Ok
Jinyeob shares her fascinating experience and the challenges of creating one of world's greatest productions, seen by millions globally who tuned in to watch the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics ceremonies. She also shares insights into the dance scene in Korea and how contemporary dance is perceived within the Korean culture, and how the popularity of dance is increasing through commercial dance TV shows.
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New technologies like virtual reality and social media are opening up new ways of presenting and interacting with dancers, creators and performances. It is definitely an exciting and interesting time for the art-form and choreographer and former Birmingham Royal Ballet dancer Alexander Whitley, is pioneering the tech dance space with the launch of a dance virtual reality (VR) App.
Alexander Whitley and Natalie Allen in Pattern. Photo by Tristram Kenton
In this podcast episode, Alex explains how VR and dance work together and how audiences can see and experience his piece 'Celestial Motion' in a new and interactive way. Put on a VR headset and you can be on stage, you can look 360 degrees and get up close to the dancers.
Celestial Motion was adapted by Alex from his original stage production 8 Minutes, which received rave reviews when the piece premiered last year.
You can listen also to our podcast with Alex, which gives a deep insight into the intellectual foundations and creative process behind 8 Minutes.
Alexander Whitley - Frames
The Celestial Motion App was produced by The Guardian’s award-winning in-house VR team, and made in association with Sadler’s Wells.
Download The Guardian VR app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
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Breakin' Convention is the award-winning, critically acclaimed international hip hop festival and this year marks 15 sensational years of bringing hip hop culture into the theatre.
Jonzi D, MC, dancer and spoken word artist is the Founder and Artistic Director of Breakin’ Convention and Associate Artist of Sadler’s Wells, the home of this ground breaking hip hop festival.
Jonzi D gives us the low down on this year's hot line up of international artists hitting the stage in London. There's hip hop dancers, DJs, graffiti artists and an incredible ensemble of 15 leading jazz musicians.
Jonzi D shares his journey over the last 2 decades from hip hop artist to pioneer of hip hop theatre. We talk about the evolution of the UK hip hop scene over the years, the emerging artists breaking out in the battles and coming together for the festival. Jonzi D shares his vision for the future of hip hop theatre and the legacy for Breakin' Convention.
Breakin’ Convention is an exhilarating family friendly festival that brings together the most respected, innovative and inspirational artists from around the world and is not to be missed!
Breakin’ Convention hits London 5-7 May at Sadler’s Wells. Get a taste of what’s to come at the free Park Jam hip hop event in London on 29 April.
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Jonzi.mp3
World Dance for Parkinson's Day sees 23 dance organisations and individual teaching artists from 16 countries offering classes for people with Parkinson's throughout April, in honor of Parkinson's Awareness Month and International Dance Day.
Dance is scientifically proven to help people who suffer from Parkinson's, with dance classes and programs offering more than just lessons - they also provide social, emotional, and creative experiences that enhance lives of the dance students and their families.
Jody White Van de Klippe, Program Director for Hamilton City Ballet's Dance for Parkinson's and dance student Stan Tick talk about how dance classes are transforming lives for people with Parkinson's.
Hamilton City Ballet
Listen to Stan talk about his diagnosis and the affects of the disease before he discovered Dance for Parkinson's in his home town in Canada. Stan's personal journey and experience of the positive benefits of dance is inspiring and he is filled with wise words of encouragement for anyone who is living with Parkinson's.
Jody tells us about how World Dance for Parkinson's Day has grown and brings together a global network of research, dance artists and organisations to make lives better through dance.
Companies involved include Mark Morris Dance Group, who founded Dance for PD®, and who as Jody says "without their pioneering spirit and efforts, the global expansion of dance based programming for people who have Parkinson's disease would not exist"; Dutch National Ballet, English National Ballet, Hamilton City Ballet, Mark Morris Dance Group, Canada's National Ballet School, Houston Ballet, Queensland Ballet, Scottish Ballet, Skånes Dansteater and many more.
Learn more about World Dance for Parkinson's Day and explore dance classes, watch documentaries and find diverse programs near you in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, France, Portugal, Israel, India, England, Malta, Scotland, South Africa, South Korea, and the United States.
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https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Jody+White.mp3
Daria Klimentová, prima ballerina, dance teacher and photographer, is one of the most acclaimed dancers of our times. After a glittering career as a senior principal dancer with the English National Ballet, she is now moulding the future dance stars at the Royal Ballet Upper School.
Listen to Daria share her experience of deciding to hang up her pointe shoes and step off the stage and her transition to becoming a dance teacher.
Daria talks about her partnership and friendship with the incredible principal dancer Vadim Muntagirov, her passion for passing on her professional experience to the next generation of dancers and her love of photography.
Daria gives us an insight into the training at the Royal Ballet School and the challenges for dancers today; she also talks about her renowned International Ballet Masterclass in Prague, which attracts dancers from around the world.
It was a privilege to speak with Daria and to feature her in The Wonderful World of Dance Magazine Act II, photographed by the wonderfully talented Karolina Kuras at The Library in London, dressed by Teatum Jones and having a make-up by Paulina Kozdra!
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Charlotte Darbyshire is the co-Artistic Director (along with Ben Wright) of Candoco Dance Company - a contemporary dance company of disabled and non-disabled dancers in the UK that's made up of highly trained and passionate dancers from around the world.
The company is presenting work across the UK and we’ve just reviewed their Double Bill at London’s Sadler’s Wells, which our wonderful reviewer Francesca Marotto said "celebrates the power of diversity" (read full review here).
Nicolas Vendange, Megan Armishaw, Mickaella Dantas (Left to right) (Candoco Dance Company - Face In by Yasmeen Godder). Photo by Hugo Glendinning
As a founding member of Candoco, Charlotte has an inspiring and trailblazing journey over the last 25 years, championing and pioneering diversity in dance, training disabled dancers and creating opportunities and choreographing for disabled and non-disabled dancers.
Listen to Charlotte talk about how she became interested in practice and research into inclusive and creative approaches to dance practice for disabled and non-disabled people, trained and untrained dancers.
Charlotte also talks about her many roles as choreographer, teacher, dancer, dance lecturer, dance film director and the work being presented by Candoco Dance Company (check out locations near you).
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Neon Dance Artistic Director and Choreographer Adrienne Hart is bringing an exciting evening of curated contemporary dance celebrating international Piano Day to Sadler's Wells on 22 & 23 March.
The Wild Card evening starts with a photographic exhibition in the foyer, features flowers being pollenated by a piano tuning fork, and there's two pieces created by Adrienne showcasing Neon Dance. Adrienne's curated Wild Card is set to be a night to remember. She's presented works on stages from the Radialsystem V in Berlin to Glastonbury and in countries from Norway to Kosovo.
Listen to Adrienne talk about her own dance journey, the integral support she's received as an emerging choreographer that led to her creating her own company and how she's selected the works and collaborations for Wild Card.
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Choreographer Ben Wright's personal journey reads like a real-life Billy Elliot. Growing up he experienced bullying at school for not being the sporty type and he incredibly only started to learn to dance at the age of 19, after being spotted and nurtured into an accomplished dancer.
Ben has most famously danced the lead role as the Prince in Matthew Bourne's male Swan Lake. He's danced with UK's leading contemporary dance companies, went on to form his own company bgroup, he's choreographed dance, theatre and opera and was the Associate Director of Skånes Dansteater in Sweden for three years.
Listen to Ben share his journey that's brought him back home to tour his new work Point of Echoes in rural communities throughout the UK.
Point of Echoes is on tour until 19 March - you can get your tickets here.
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Ballet British Columbia, Canada’s leading contemporary dance company, is heading to the UK for their first tour in 2018.
Founded in 1986, Ballet British Columbia has been under the artistic directorship of Emily Molnar since 2009. Emily was recently appointed to the Order of Canada for her artistic leadership of the company and its contribution to advancing contemporary dance in Canada.
In this podcast interview held at the Canadian Embassy in London, Emily shares her journey from taking over the company at a time when it was nearing bankruptcy, to transforming the company into the leading contemporary dance company in Canada.
Emily revolutionised the company from the ground up, starting with the technical capabilities of the dancers, to re-invigorating the repertoire by bringing new choreographers to create new and exciting works on the company.
Emily shares how her own successful dancer career - forged with the National Ballet of Canada, Ballet Frankfurt and as a principal with Ballet BC - influenced her approach to rescuing the company that was struggling artistically and financially. The UK tour is part of Emily's artistic vision for the future of the company, setting it firmly on the international stage.
Ballet British Columbia and its 18-strong dancer-workforce return to the UK with the same evening of dance that wowed the festival audience in 2016.
During the 2018 spring tour, the company makes its London debut as part of the six-venue engagement that presents work by three of the world’s most celebrated female choreographers: - 16+ a room by Emily Molnar - Solo Echo by the globally renowned choreographer Crystal Pite - Bill by Tel Aviv-based Sharon Eyal.
Emily's 16+ a room is inspired by the work of Virginia Woolf, Jeannette Winterson and Emily Dickinson.
Sparked with explosive, fast-paced choreography that pushes the dancers to their athletic and technical limits, 16+ a room displays Molnar’s unique choreographic language through a complex study of time, transition and stillness.
16+ a room received its world premiere for Ballet British Columbia in October 2013. Music is arranged and composed by Dirk P. Haubrich. Lighting design is by Jordan Tuinman with lighting direction by James Proudfoot and costumes by Kate Burrows.
Vancouver-born Crystal Pite is a former dancer with Ballet British Columbia. Pite made her choreographic debut with the company in 1990 with Between the Bliss and Me.
The success of the work allowed Pite to create additional pieces for Ballet British Columbia and since then she has created over 40 works for some of the world’s top dance companies.
Inspired by two sonatas for cello and piano by Brahms and the poem ‘Lines for Winter’ by Mark Strand, Pite’s Solo Echo portrays a man coming to terms with himself at the end of his life as the choreographer explores recurring themes of acceptance and loss.
Solo Echo received its world premiere in February 2012 (Nederlands Dans Theater) and its Canadian premiere in November 2015 (Ballet British Columbia). Lighting design is by Tom Visser, set design by Jay Gower Taylor and costume designs by Crystal Pite and Joke Visser.
A Sadler’s Wells’ Associate Artist, Pite has won a number of prestigious awards including two Oliviers for Polaris in 2015 and Betroffenheit in 2017.
The final piece is Bill by Tel Aviv-based choreographer Sharon Eyal. Dancers showcase their extraordinary skills in synchronised ensemble sections and solos in the work created by Eyal with her long-time collaborators Gai Behar and Ori Lichtik.
Bill received its world premiere in May 2010 (Batsheva Dance Company) and its Canadian premiere in May 2016 (Ballet British Columbia). Original music and soundtrack design is by Ori Lichtik, lighting design is by Omer Sheizaf and costume design by Sharon Eyal and Gai Behar.
Eyal was born in Jerusalem and has enjoyed a long-standing affiliation with the Batsheva Dance Company.
21 year old ballet dancer Tala Lee-Turton is only the third ever British female to break through the Bolshoi Ballet Academy.
In this podcast interview, Tala tells us about her life as a ballet student growing up in North England and discovering and falling in love with the Russian ballet technique.
After successfully auditioning, Tala moved from the UK to Russia to train with the infamous Bolshoi Ballet Academy.
Tala shares her experience of moving countries, what is was like in the first few months at the Bolshoi, how she made friends, learned to fluently speak Russian and what her days were like training at the notorious Russian school.
After graduating, Tala this season joined the Russian ballet company, Astrakhan State Opera and Ballet Theatre, and set to return to the UK on tour this month.
Tala gives us an insight into the transition from ballet school to professional company and what she's looking forward to about coming back to England.
As a young dancer, Tala is already looking to the future and has embarked on building her choreographic experience. Check out her films:
https://vimeo.com/232735189
https://vimeo.com/233879927
As well as a dancer, Tala is a model and a coach, and even at such a young age ensures she gives back to her local community in Barnsley (UK) by teaching local young students when she's at home.
Listen to Tala discussing her love of Russian ballet and her adopted city, her hopes and dreams for her career and her advice for other young dancers wanting to following in her pointe shoe steps.
Follow Tala: Instagram / Facebook
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Brogan McKelvey is young, fresh, fearless and switched on!
Brogan recently joined Birmingham Royal Ballet and talks to fellow dancer and ballet friend Lydia Holt - our new podcast host for The Wonderful World of Dance - about his experiences at Elmhurst Ballet School, company life and his choreographic dreams.
From starting in street dance, Brogan hasn't had the smoothest journey from studio to stage, so we talk injuries, rejections and the pressures of todays classical training but also the importance of friendships and believing in your fate.
Brogan has always been 'the creative' and his choreographic talents have consistently shone through, from winning competitions at Elmhurst Ballet School to having his ballet, 'Classical Suite', debuted in Tokyo. Brogan has already accomplished a lot for a 20 year old dancer.
But that's not enough for our Brogan, we discuss his inspirational colleagues at Birmingham Royal Ballet, his erratic but exciting choreographic process and what inspires him to keep creating.
Brogan is definitely one to watch, his driven work ethic, immense artistic talents combined with oodles of charisma promise him a bright future; an inspiration for all young dancers that your tough times will pay off.
Facebook: Brogan McKelvey Instagram: @broganmckelvey_choreographer
You can also listen to Lydia talk about her own experiences of training with this prestigious school in our 3 part series on Elmhurst Ballet School.
https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Brogan+McKelvey+-+The+Wonderful+World+of+Dance+Podcasts.mp3
Here are some lovely photos of Brogan and Lydia at Elmhurst Ballet School!
Dance Umbrella is London's largest dance festival and the 2017 programme showcases some of the world's best choreography and dancers over 3 weeks.
Dance Umbrella 2017 runs from 11 to 28 October with works being presented in unique locations across London.
Artistic Director and CEO Emma Gladstone sees over 200 shows a year in order to curate the festival.
In this interview Emma Galdstone talks about:
- her role as Artistic Director
- how she selects works for Dance Umbrella
- what audiences can expect from this year's programme
- highlights of choreographers she has discovered
- where to find some unusual dance in unexpected places in the capital
Emma also talks about taking dance out of the theatre and into the community, showcasing work outdoors, in shipping containers, at Battersea Power Station, on the street and more.
There is also free events, family friendly performances to give kids a fun and entertaining dance experience and a whole range of unique shows.
We also discuss what 'dance' means, how we talk about and present 'contemporary' dance, what Dance Umbrella does to tackle diversity in dance and what her vision is for the future of the festival.
Emma has over 30 years in dance and programming and this insightful interview reveals what it takes to put the programme together.
Emma is an inspiring woman and a power house of dance knowledge and it's so interesting to be able to hear from the woman behind this incredibly diverse Dance Umbrella festival.
Book your Dance Umbrella tickets now!
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Lauren Lovette is lovely. Not only is she an inspirational dancer with an enviable ballet career, a massive social media following and is an upcoming choreographer, but she's genuinely a lovely lovely person.
In this podcast episode, Lauren talks about being homeschooled before her natural talent being discovered in a local ballet store and receiving a life changing scholarship that led her to The School of American Ballet in NYC. She reveals the jobs she had throughout her time at SAB to help pay for her pointe shoes and NYC living.
Lauren also talks candidly and emotionally about her experience of graduating from SAB and seeing classmates becoming apprentices with New York City Ballet, but finding she wasn't giving a position.
This crucial moment almost led Lauren to quit ballet altogether, but instead steered her to a new opportunity that has helped shape her career and inspired her budding choreographic career.
Listen to Lauren talk about her love for dancing in the corps and the many masks she wore on stage, life as a soloist and her favourite roles, but also the disappointment of achieving principal while being laid up on a sofa with an injury.
Lauren also reveals the inspiration for her new work, For Clara, a true love story with a dark twist. As an upcoming choreographer, Lauren humbly talks about her inspirations, the challenges as a dancer, the difficulties she's overcome and her words of advice for other dancers dreaming of following in her pointe steps!
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Often dancers grow up wanting a career with a top ballet or dance company, but for many as they grow older this either becomes unattainable or undesirable.
However, this doesn't have to be the end of the road for a dancer. There are so many different options in the dance world that gives dancers a career in dance that they love and fulfill them both creatively and financially.
In this podcast episode, we explore the life and opportunities for freelance dancers with Abbi Burns, founder of a website dedicated to providing information and support for freelance dancers, called The Female Dancer.
Abbi is also the founder and artistic director of dance company Darley Dance, which employs freelance dancers to perform at a wide range of events.
Abbi gives us an insight into the life of a freelance dancer, the types of dancers she looks for to join her company and the information available through The Female Dancer.
Follow Abbi on Instagram: @abbiburns
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Zarely is the gorgeous dance wear company founded by former ballet dancer Mateo Klemmeyer.
After a stellar career on stage, Mateo is now a hugely successful serial entrepreneur, who owns 4 companies across manufacturing and the arts industries, turning over more than $15million and employing 130 people.
Mateo shares how he went from dancing on stage to creating multi-million dollar companies and building the most beautiful dance wear brand worn by famous ballerinas around the world.
Zarely dance wear includes tights, tops, leggings and active wear for both men and women, made by high end fabrics and uber cool designs.
Check out Zarely.co to see the fabulous range inspired by Iana Salenko, Sonia Rodriguez, Maia Makhateli and more.
You can also watch the video interview with Mateo.
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Edinburgh Festival Fringe is celebrating their 70th Anniversary of showcasing norm defying performance.
With over 140 dance shows, we've asked The Place's Senior Producer, Christina Elliot to give us the low down on the hottest dance at the Festival.
The Place is London's leading contemporary dance training, creation and performance house, home to the London Contemporary Dance School and the Richard Alston Dance Company.
Christina Elliot. Photo: Alicia Clarke
Listen to Christina talk about the importance of dance at EdFringe, what to see (check out: Dance Guide to Edinburgh Festival Fringe), and the 4 amazing pieces The Place is taking to the famous festival.
We also talk about her role, what a producer does and her typical day - there isn't one!
The Place also sponsors the Total Theatre Awards for Dance, which celebrates innovation in dance, Christina gives us an insight into how the winners are selected for the prestigious prize.
Click here for Edinburgh Festival Fringe Dance Hot List!
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Ballet United Founder and Dancer Tom Attard-Manché talks to The Wonderful World of Dance about the inspiration behind Ballet United and the Gala, being held in London on 19 July at Cadogan Hall.
Tom also shares his own dance journey, developing glandular fever and having to take time off dancing, and his vision for Ballet United. Ballet United brings together some of the world’s brightest and boldest talent to captivate new audiences and inspire fresh minds, for one night only in London. This unique Gala will see pioneering ballet dancers from premier international companies take to the stage in an electrifying night showcasing the very best of ballet and accompanied by world class musicians, book your tickets to see:
The Royal Ballet Paris Opera Ballet Dutch National Ballet Semperoper Dresden Northern Ballet Norwegian National Ballet Vienna State Ballet Rome Opera Ballet
Book tickets to the Ballet United Gala on 19 July, Cadogan Hall, London.
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Every dancer has a story, and Claudia Suárez's (Apprentice Ballerina, with Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida) story sees her fleeing her home in politically unstable Venezuela and landing on the stage in Miami.
19 year old Claudia started dancing at the age of 5, however her training was interrupted by having to move numerous times and eventually travelling with her mum to London, where she studied for a time with the Central School of Ballet.
In Miami, Claudia trained with the Vladimir Issaev School of Classical Ballet in North Miami Beach, Florida, graduating in 2015.
As a budding ballerina, Claudia won the Silver Medal at the Caracas National Ballet Competition, and was awarded Top Ten Dancer at Universal Ballet Competition in Florida.
At the age of 15, she won a scholarship to attend Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida’s Summer Intensive, which led to being appointed as a Trainee and then a year later promoted to Apprentice.
Claudia shares her unique experience of becoming a ballerina, and how disruption and sacrifice have shaped her young career, her experience entering into competitions, and being photographed by the famous dance photographer Gene Schiavone.
Claudia gives us an insight into her daily life as an Apprentice, working alongside seasoned dance professionals, the challenges she's had to over come, her aspirations for the future and her deep love of dance and dance history.
We are proud to have Claudia sharing her love of writing as a contributor for The Wonderful World of Dance.
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One of the most important issues facing the dance industry is dancer health and wellbeing.
It is critical that dancers, teachers and parents are educated and aware to ensure that dancers are positively nurtured; so that they love their body, embrace their differences, understand the challenges, learn how to improve positively, have support, knowledge and tools to rise to the heights of their dance dreams so that they have an enjoyable, successful and long dance career.
Former professional ballet dancer Jessica Spinner is a health coach and founder of The Whole Dancer - a health and lifestyle coaching programme for high level dancers.
Jess shares her own experiences as a professional dancer that led her to create The Whole Dancer and The Dancers Best Body Programmes.
Jess' dance training included summer programmes at The Kirov Academy, North Carolina School for the Arts, Boston Ballet, American Ballet Theater in New York and with Orlando Ballet.
As a professional dancer Jess, danced with The Louisville Ballet and also studied dance and arts administration at Butler University, before freelancing as a dancer in Boston.
Throughout her dance career, Jess experienced her own struggles with body image, food, confidence and what she perceived as shortcomings as a dancer.
LISTEN to Jess tell us about The Whole Dancer and The Dancers Best Body Programme she created to provide support, education and tools for aspiring dancers who may be facing challenges relating to body image, health and wellbeing issues.
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Elmhurst Ballet School graduate Lydia Holt is our final guest in our 3 part podcast series on this prestigious ballet school.
Prior to studying at Elmhurst, 19 yr old Lydia attended Tring Park School for the Performing Arts, where she was selected to perform with the English National Ballet in Swan Lake at the Royal Albert Hall, as well as St Petersburg Ballet in Don Quixote in Paris.
Lydia Holt, Elmhurst Ballet School Graduate. Credit: Johan Persson www.perssonphotography.com
As a scholarship student, Lydia joined Elmhurst Ballet School at the age of 12 and during her time she won:
2015 Elmhurst Ballet Solo Competition performing Dance Concertantes by Sir Kenneth Macmillan 2016 Musicality Award at the Cecchetti Classical Ballet Awards, Sadler’s Wells Semi-finalist at the 2015 Royal Academy of Dance Genee Competition Appointed Head Girl at Elmhurst Ballet School from 2015-16 Olympic Torch Bearer at the start of the 2012 Olympic Games in London
Lydia Holt, Elmhurst Ballet School Graduate. Credit: Johan Persson www.perssonphotography.com
Lydia speaks eloquently about life as a ballet student, her passion for dance, working with acclaimed choreographers, the importance of dance history, the work required in the studio, balancing studies with preparing for life as a professional dancer.
As a graduate Lydia has begun auditioning and she gives us an insight to her experience, her dreams for the future, and the roles that she would love to dance.
Lydia Holt, Elmhurst Ballet School Graduate. Credit: Johan Persson www.perssonphotography.com
We are excited to have Lydia join our wonderful team as a co-host of our podcast show. We are looking forward to Lydia showcasing the voice of the dance student and sharing her journey of becoming a professional ballerina.
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Elmhurst Ballet School graduate Hamish Scott and winner of Bronze at this year's Genée International Ballet Competition, shares his experience of training at this prestigious ballet school.
This is the second in our 3 part podcast series on the Elmhurst Ballet School, that trains dancers who enter companies such as Birmingham Royal Ballet, The Royal Ballet, Northern Ballet, Scottish Ballet and other top companies around the world.
19 year old Hamish shares his journey from local ballet school to auditioning for Elmhurst, his daily dance life, and his aspirations for his future dance career.
Elmhurst Ballet School Hamish Scott, Photo Credit: Johan Persson
Listen to Hamish talk about his trip to Sydney to participate in the infamous Genée International Ballet Competition, meeting other dancers from around the world, preparing to perform and ultimately winning Bronze.
Elmhurst Ballet School Hamish Scott, Photo Credit: Johan Persson
We will be following Hamish's journey as he graduates from Elmhurst Ballet School and enters the professional dance world.
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Elmhurst Ballet School Artistic Director Robert Parker, is an award winning former principal dancer with the Birmingham Royal Ballet.
Elmhurst is the oldest and one of the most successful ballet schools not just in the UK, but across the world. Elmhurst schools young ballet students to succeed in the professional dance world, providing high quality, holistic vocational dance training.
Significantly, this renowned ballet school trained a quarter of this year’s finalists of the prestigious Genée International Ballet Competition. One of their students, Hamish Scott, went on to win Bronze.
This is the first in our 3 part mini-podcast series on Elmhurst Ballet School, starting with Artistic Director Robert Parker, followed by dance graduates Hamish Scott and Lydia Holt.
Elmhurst Ballet School Artistic Director, Robert Parker, Photo by Andy Ross
Together they provide a unique insight into the school, the artistic and academic vision, what it’s like as a student, and how the school prepares young dancers for their first step into professional dance life.
Robert shares his own dance journey from training with the Royal Ballet School before joining Birmingham Royal Ballet, under the directorship of the incredible Sir Peter Wright where he rose quickly to principal dancer.
After almost 10 years with Birmingham Royal Ballet, Robert took a sabbatical where he learned to fly! He also obtained a Master’s degree in Philosophy in Education, and attained RAD Professional Dancers’ Teaching Diploma with distinction.
Robert became Artistic Director of Elmhurst almost 5 years ago, and he talks about his vision for the school, new programmes he's introduced and the key elements of ballet training for the next generation of ballet dancers.
Listen to Robert's advice for students seeking a position at Elmhurst Ballet School.
Elmhurst Ballet School Summer Show - 7 to 14 July 2017
You can also get tickets to Elmhurst Ballet School's Summer Show and see the fabulous graduate students performing in David Bintley CBE, Director of Birmingham Royal Ballet's first choreographic work for the school. Entitled Comic Cuts, the 15 minute work in five sections has witty bursts of entertainment will showcase the personalities of each dancer.
David Bintley said: “I have very much enjoyed returning to Elmhurst to choreograph my new piece for the summer show. Many of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s current dancers trained at the school, and former dancers have gone on to teach there, so it is an incredibly important part of the Company. The Upper School students have impressed me with their professionalism, energy and enthusiasm. Many of them will be graduating from the school this summer, and I wish them all the best for the future.”
The shows take place at Elmhurst’s studio theatre in the school’s Birmingham home from Friday 7 to 14 July 2017. Book Now!
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Alain Platel is the director of Les Ballet C de la B, which is in fact not a ballet company, and definitely not your typical dance company.
Based in Belgium, Alain tells us how he started Les Ballet C de la B by accident and has over the last 30 years challenged the normal conventions of dance.
Working with both professional and non-professional dancers, live musicians, and even animals, Alain creates work that makes us question 'what is dance', who is allowed to dance, what is a dancer, where does dance end and movement begin, is theatre dance?
His piece Nicht Schlafen being shown at Sadler's Wells (30 June and 1 July), is an example of his radical dance that deals with life and death. Alain explains the inspiration drawn from Austrian composer Gustav Mahler, political change, uncertainty and social tensions.
With a cast of all men except one lone female dancer, Nicht Schlafen explores the role of men in today's society, responding to, as Alain says, the new wave of feminism.
Listen to Alain talk about his observations and influences and the importance of the music from composer Steven Prengels in his work.
Thank you to Francesca Marotto for compiling the interview questions.
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Sophie Laplane, First Artist with the Scottish Ballet was born in France, studied at the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet School, and danced with Le Ballet de Lorraine before moving to Scotland.
Sophie shares with us her journey from Paris to Glasgow, her favourite roles, and her move into choreography that is being nurtured by the Scottish Ballet.
The support Sophie has received from the Scottish Ballet has enabled her to create acclaimed pieces with students from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland which she's presented as part of The Royal Ballet’s First Drafts at The Royal Opera House in London.
At a time when there is a critically important industry wide debate about the challenges facing female choreographers, it is inspiring to hear a story of a female dancer turned choreographer being supported by her dance company.
LISTEN to Sophie talk about her love of dance, the creation of Sibilo for the Scottish Ballet (see images), choreographing a music video and life as dancer and choreographer.
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Michael ‘Mikey J’ Asante is one half of the founders and artistic directors of award winning London hip hop dance company Boy Blue Entertainment.
Together with choreographer Kenrick ‘H20’ Sandy, composer Mikey J has blazed the hip hop trail and are at the forefront of the UK hip hop scene.
With a string of awards, collaborations with incredible artists both here in the UK and abroad, acclaimed producer, composer, singer, dancer and DJ, Mikey J shares his journey from South London to LA and beyond.
Boy Blue Entertainment is curating a special hip hop event at this year's Latitude Festival, where you get down and give hip hop a go, learn the moves and be inspired by the hip hop show.
Listen to Mikey J's insightful words of advice, his thoughts on the future of hip hop and how he and H20 create their hit shows.
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Imagine going into a field, meeting a random group of people, putting on headphones, hearing music, following instructions and performing choreography. This is the unique creation of choreographer Charlotte Spencer called Is this a Waste Land?
Her work and company Charlotte Spencer Projects has been described as stretching the boundaries of choreography, challenging the normally accepted notion of 'what is dance?'
Charlotte Spencer, Choreographer & Artistic Director. Photo by Camilla Greenwell
But Charlotte's work reaches new audiences, engages them differently, and creates an experience that is growing in popularity and being shared through word of mouth and across social media.
In a world that can sometimes feel homogenised, people are seeking out what's new and different and Is this a Waste Land? leaves audiences with a sense of personal transformation and a sense that they themselves created something.
LISTEN to Charlotte talking about how she created Is this a Waste Land? and the incredible feedback from the audience who became part of the show.
Is this a Waste Land? is on 12 – 14 May 2017 at Dance International Glasgow.
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Dance + Space Science = 8 Minutes by former Birmingham Royal Ballet dancer Alexander Whitley. After a wonderful career as a classical ballet dancer, Alex turned to contemporary dance before choreographing his own works and setting up his own dance company - Alexander Whitley Dance Company. Among his many accolades, Alex holds the prestigious position as a New Wave Associate at Sadler’s Wells, London’s acclaimed dance house and he's also an associate of Rambert, London’s leading contemporary dance company. Alex's previous works had sold out shows at the Royal Opera House and Sadler's Wells. For his new full length dance, 8 Minutes, Alex collaborated with the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, the UK's leading space science facility. 8 Minutes brings together science and art, using movement, film and music to explore complex scientific subjects such as astroparticle physics. LISTEN to Alex talking about his creative process that inspired 8 Minutes, premiering at Sadler’s Wells on 27 June. PRESS PLAY.
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Sadler's Wells is not your typical dance house, it is not a theatre, or a dance company, but it's an institution that curates, commissions and showcases the most outstanding dance from the UK, Europe and across the world.
Sadler's Wells pushes the boundaries of dance, nurtures new choreographic talent, educates and engages audiences.
As part of their mission to reach out to new audiences, they take dance out of the theatre and to the English countryside at the ever popular Latitude Festival.
The incredible woman responsible for creating the wildly successful dance programme at Sadler's Wells is Katy Arnander.
Katy is the Director of Artistic Programme that ranges from classical ballet by the English National Ballet to contemporary dance from a talented group of associate artists through to flamenco, hiphop and experimental dance plus more. Katy shares her hot hits for this year's Latitude dance line-up, including Matthew Bourne's New Adventures, Sisters Grimm, BBC Young Dancer 2017 finalists, hip hop Boy Blue Entertainment and the National Youth Dance Company.
Listen to Katy talking about how she creates intriguing and inspired dance programmes that keep audiences coming back for more. Katy also shares her thoughts on the future of dance, the positive impact of technology on dance, and how Sadler's Wells is helping give a voice and a stage to more female choreographers. PRESS PLAY. https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/Katy_Arnander_Sadlers_Wells_Podcast_11.mp3
Acclaimed Tamsin Fitzgerald, Artistic Director and choreographer of the award winning and physically adventurous 2Faced Dance Company is a trail blazer and a strong advocate of female choreographers. Not only has Tamsin created an exciting and successful dance company, she is actively tackling the serious concerns about the lack of equality faced by female choreographers within the dance sector today. In response to these concerns, Tamsin created The BENCH a programme that aims to influence change and current behaviours within the UK dance industry. The BENCH is the first of its kind in the UK and is fast becoming a launchpad for exciting works by female choreographers across the country. Works by Tamsin and The BENCH choreographers are hitting the stage at The Place in London with the hot new triple bill RUN on 4 & 5 April. Before you see the show, listen to Tamsin talk about her experience of launching 2Faced, her vision for The BENCH and her approach to choreographing her spectacular work. PRESS PLAY.
RUN - From Above by Tamsin Fitzgerald - Dancers Louis Parker-Evans and Jason Boyle - Photo Luke Evans
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Illuminati - according to conspiracy theorists - is a secret society of wealthy people hell bent on world domination. The Illuminati are said to brainwash celebrities to spread their mind control to the masses using symbols like the pyramid, eye and skulls.
Rosie Kay, Artistic Director & Choreographer of her award-winning contemporary dance company - Rosie Kay Dance Company - has studied the secret society and turned it into the hot new show 'MK Ultra'.
Listen to Rosie Kay talk about the Illuminati, Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber and how she choreographed MK Ultra.
Rosie is also an advocate of women in the arts. She shares her experience as a female artistic director and choreographer in the dance world today and the importance of the female voice in dance and choreography.
MK Ultra is touring the UK from 17 March, you can get your tickets to this pop-inspired show at www.mkultra.dance/buy-tickets/
Read more about Rosie Kay Dance Company at rosiekay.co.uk
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Dance4Humanity is the brainchild of principal guest artist and social entrepreneur Aaron Smyth. Dance4Humanity a global collective of artists giving back to humanity one movement at a time that raises money for charity.
Aaron Smyth is truly one of the next generation of dancers, who at 25 yrs old travels the world as a guest principal artist and, in addition to Dance4Humanity, he is the co-founder of The Smyth Collective - a wellbeing brand and is also about to launch a boutique wellness sanctuary in the heart of London.
Originally from Queensland, Australia, Aaron left home to dance with the prestigious Royal Ballet, The Joffrey Ballet and American Ballet Theater II. He's travelled the world as a guest principal artist which included performing for Michelle Obama plus working on TV shows and commercials.
Principal Guest Artist & Founder Dance4Humanity Aaron Smyth
Listen to Aaron talk about his journey from Australia to dancing on the world stages, his experiences that inspired him to create Dance4Humanity and his plans for the future of the The Smyth Collective.
You can also see Aaron perform in the hit show An American In Paris, hitting London's West End stage.
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Listen to Kevin Finnan, choreographer and artistic director of the UK's leading dance theatre company, Motionhouse, talk about this exciting dance form.
Motionhouse is a groundbreaking company of just 8 incredible dancers. It pushes the boundaries of dance, taking dance out onto the streets, projects onto buildings and swings dancers from construction cranes to create a high energy experience that everyone can enjoy.
Motionhouse is showcasing their acclaimed dance theatre piece SCATTERED at London's Peacock Theatre. Imagine dancers, acrobatics, digital waterfalls, waves & glaciers inspired by water and movement.
LISTEN to Kevin talk about what he looks for in dancers to join his company and the courage and openness they need to go beyond their own expectations of dance. Book your tickets to see Motionhouse’s exciting show SCATTERED running from 26 - 29 April, go to sadlerswells.co.uk for tickets. Check out Motionhouse on their website: motionhouse.co.uk PRESS PLAY.
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Going inside the mind of a choreographer is a fascinating experience!
My discussion with British choreographer Theo Clinkard reveals a deeply considered, intelligent and thoroughly relevant approach to creating contemporary work.
Theo's latest piece 'The Listening Room' - created for Danza Contemporanea de Cuba (Contemporary Dance of Cuba) - is an inspired example of his unique creativity. The dancers listen to one piece of music, while the audience listens to another - intriguing!
Theo has challenged and thrilled audiences in Cuba who responded to The Listening Room with rave reviews. Danza Contemporanea de Cuba is showcasing this piece as part of their UK Tour throughout Feb & March 2017.
Listen to Theo talk about his experience in Cuba and working with dancers from the company that combines traditional Cuban and contemporary dance.
And for the very first time Theo also shares his thinking on a new dance project that could span 100 years!
Book tickets to see Danza Contemporanea de Cuba perform 'The Listening Room' here.
Check out: www.theoclinkard.com
LISTEN NOW.
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Casanova is the hotly anticipated new ballet from the Northern Ballet. The story of the infamous womanising lover Casanova is being brought to life by choreographer Kenneth Tindall.
Casanova is a decadent, spine-tingling spectacle of 18th century excess with gorgeous costumes, sumptuous staging created for the stunning dancers.
Before becoming an award winning choreographer, Kenneth Tindall was a principal dancer with the Northern Ballet, having danced all the leading roles in ballet classics.
Kenneth grew up in London, studied at the acclaimed Central School of Ballet and danced in Japan and Israel before returning home to the Northern Ballet, the company in his heart.
Northern Ballet tour details can be found here and you can catch the show in London Sadler's Wells in May 2017.
Listen to Kenneth talk about choreographing Casanova and his life as a principal dancer.
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The sensational show Mother Africa is currently on stage in New York, receiving rave reviews from the New York Times.
In our latest DANCETALKS podcast interview we talk to the show's dancer & choreographer Nolly (Noluyanda) Mqulwana. Nolly has an inspiring story having grown up and started dancing in South Africa, joined the Lion King in Singapore and then in Germany where she now lives and works as a dancer & choreographer.
Mother Africa is coming to London's Peacock Theatre in 2017.
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The spectacular BalletBoyz new production Life showcases the work of two choreographers taking the company of 10 male dancers from classical ballet to dance theatre all in one night.
BalletBoyz dancer Bradley Waller talks about Life, taking up dancing at 16 and working with acclaimed choreographers.
Listen now
https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/masterballetboys.mp3
Hip hop is one of the fastest growing dance styles in the UK, but sometimes it’s given a bad rap. ZooNation Dance Company is here to show the world that hip hop has a role to play in engaging, motivating and inspiring young people and providing them with positive role models and opportunities.
ZooNation is bringing their latest show Into The Hoods : Remixed to London’s Sadler’s Wells Peacock Theatre. It’s a story set in the ‘Ruff Endz Estate’, where two lost children go on a journey to find an iPhone as white as milk, trainers as pure as gold, a hoodie as red as blood and weave as yellow as corn. This remixed production has been co-created by Associate Director and choreographer Carrie-Anne Ingrouille.
ZooNation's Into The Hoods : Remixed
WWOD: Can you tell us about ZooNation Dance Company…
Carrie-Anne: The company has been going since early 2000’s and was set up by the wonderful Kate Prince, who’s the Artistic Director of the company. It started as a group of individuals who all shared the same love of street dance and Kate, who has always had a huge interest in theatre and telling stories, wanted to join the two together to make hip hop dance theatre. ZooNation does just that to create what I call user friendly, hip-hop theatre where everybody from children of 4 yrs to your Grandma can come and see the shows.
WWOD: How would you describe the hip hop dance scene in London?
Carrie-Anne: I think when you say hip hop people are still quite naive about hip hop dance. Sometimes there’s quite negative associations that come with hip hop and ZooNation very much tries to promote the great side of hip hop culture that is fun, fresh and exciting along with the knowledge of hip hop culture.
Hip hop is one of the fastest growing dance styles in Europe and there’s also major influence from America. Hip hop is a really great outlet for a lot of young people who might find it hard to express themselves in other ways. It’s something that they can relate to, whether it’s the music, the movement, or something to enjoy and watch. Hip hop is something that is very special and can be shared with everybody.
ZooNation Dance Company - Into The Hoods : Remixed (c) Hugo Glendinning
WWOD: As a dancer and choreographer, how do you approach choreographing new works?
Carrie-Anne: It depends on the work and who it is for, with ZooNation there’s always a very clear story. There’s always clear direction from Kate Prince about what she wants from a scene, or parts of the story we might be working on and what is needed to be expressed.
I get a lot of inspiration from the music and with ZooNation that’s something that is discussed very early on in terms of what the scene needs, the sounds, how it might look, so that all of the elements - the movement, the music and the direction - all comes together and marries up completely. That gives me a very clear line of how the choreography needs to come out.
When I’m choreographing my own work I’m more led by the music. I’ll have the music on shuffle and something will pop out for me - it might be the story that’s within a certain song, or it might be the way I’m feeling or I feel like the song has amplified that for me. That’s what starts the cogs turning and what makes me freestyle and what makes me create the piece.
WWOD: Can you tell us about the Into The Hoods : Remixed…
Carrie-Anne: Into The Hoods was originally created in 2005 and everybody absolutely loved it. And after touring the show for a few years Kate Prince decided to remix the hits, update it, and change some of the music and choreography.
Into The Hoods premiered in London last November and ZooNation just finished a UK tour which finished off in Manchester, so they’ve had a little bit of a break but we're back 4-21 May at the Peacock theatre. And it will basically be the last run of it for now so if anybody wants to catch it then they’ve got those three weeks in May before we take a slightly longer break...
Welcome to The Wonderful World of Dance's very first 'Dance Talks' Podcast with balletLORENT!
We're very excited to bring you exclusive interviews with the world's best dancers, choreographers and artistic directors from across the globe!
Our very first interview is with Liv Lorent MBE the founder and artistic director of balletLORENT, UK's leading contemporary dance company presenting a reimagined Snow White at London's Sadler's Wells Theatre. Liv gives insights into this exciting new Snow White, the wonderfully diverse dancers and life of a choreographer.
You can also read our interview with Liv Lorent here.
PRESS PLAY
https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/djwpodcasts/1wwwod/livlorent17mar.mp3