Explore every episode of the podcast Ballet Help Desk
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #NoThirds: Should You Compete or Just Train? | 29 May 2025 | 01:30:22 | |
Ballet competitions are more common than ever—but do dancers really need them? In our latest episode of #NoThirds, Fran weighs in on the role competitions play in today's training landscape. He tackles key questions from parents and dancers alike:
Fran brings his signature clarity and candor to a topic that's often confusing and feels high-stakes. This conversation is packed with insight regardless of whether you're all-in on the comp circuit or don't compete at all. Learn more about Fran and Veyette Virtual Ballet School More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| Full Circle: Madison Keesler's Ballet Journey | 04 Jun 2025 | 01:18:22 | |
Former San Francisco Ballet soloist Madison Keesler shares the twists and turns of her ballet path—from falling in love with dance to navigating career pivots and returning to SFB more than once. She talks about leaving at the height of her career, what she's up to now in New York, and the launch of Pointe of View, her new consulting business for dancers. Plus, she offers thoughtful advice for students hoping to go pro. You can find Madison on Instagram: @madisonkeesler or on her website Interested in working with Madison? Book a free consultation. More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Louisville Ballet's Four-Year Studio Company: How It Works | 11 Jun 2025 | 01:16:05 | |
Considering full-time or summer training at Louisville Ballet? Artistic Director Mikelle Bruzina and School Director Christy Corbitt Krieger explain how the school is structured, what the studio company experience involves, and how dancers transition into professional careers. They also share insights on tuition, housing, casting, and how dancers are recruited. This episode offers a clear, behind-the-scenes look for dancers and families exploring the path through Louisville Ballet. Learn more about Louisville Ballet's training options on their website Read and submit reviews for Louisville Ballet School More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Erika Mayall, MPT: The Importance of Ballet-Specific Health Care- Part 2 of 2 | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:52:45 | |
In Part 2 of our two-part interview with physical therapist Erika Mayall, we explore how ballet schools are supporting dancer health—and where they still fall short. Erika offers practical advice for dancers and families without access to dance-specific care, busts common ballet injury myths, and shares her favorite recovery tools and daily habits for long-term wellness. She also discusses how to recognize genuine wellness support versus "checking the box" in schools and what one key change could improve injury prevention across ballet training. Erika also has a fantastic podcast called The Dance Physio Podcast that we think every dancer and their parents should tune in and listen to. Find it wherever you get your podcasts or learn more on her website. More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Erika Mayall, MPT: The Importance of Ballet-Specific Health Care- Part 1 of 2 | 18 Jun 2025 | 01:00:48 | |
In Part 1 of our two-part interview with physical therapist Erika Mayall of Allegro Performance and Wellness, we dive into why ballet dancers need specialized care from providers who truly understand the unique demands ballet puts on the body. Erika shares her journey into working with dancers, how injury prevention differs for ballet artists, common misdiagnoses, and early warning signs dancers and parents should watch for. She also offers guidance on choosing the right specialist and how dancers can advocate for themselves in healthcare settings. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Erika discusses dancer wellness in schools, recovery tools, and long-term health habits. Erika also has a fantastic podcast called The Dance Physio Podcast that we think every dancer and their parents should tune in and listen to. Find it wherever you get your podcasts or learn more on her website. More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Miriam Landis: Finding Her Voice Beyond the Stage | 25 Jun 2025 | 01:37:22 | |
Miriam Landis trained at the School of American Ballet, danced with Miami City Ballet, and now teaches at Pacific Northwest Ballet, all experiences that informed her work as the author of three young adult novels set in the ballet world. In this episode, she talks about the reality of the professional ballet path, the emotional and practical sides of stepping away from performing, and how her cultural background shaped her journey. Miriam also discusses what led her to transition out of ballet, how her training continues to influence her life, and why she keeps returning to ballet as a central theme in her writing. Miriam also offers her thoughts on the current challenges in ballet training, the need for change in how dancers are taught, and the generational shift she sees happening in the field. Interested in reading her books? Find them here! Learn more about Miriam on her website More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| #NoThirds: Thoughts From the Front of the Room | 26 Jun 2025 | 01:35:55 | |
What do ballet teachers really want students and parents to understand? In this episode of #NoThirds, we tackle issues in ballet training from the perspective of the teacher -- what frustrates them, what motivates them, and what they wish families better understood about the training process. From managing expectations to building trust, we dig into the unseen dynamics that shape every class and rehearsal and student/teacher relationship. Learn more about Fran and Veyette Virtual Ballet School More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| RAs Spill The Tea On Ballet Summer Intensives - A Rerelease | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:48:31 | |
This is a rerelease of one of our popular episodes from our series on ballet summer intensives. Wondering how much the RAs see of student antics? More than you think! We're talking with Robert Fulton and Camille Kellems, both professional dancers and also RAs at ballet summer intensives. Get ready for a mix of insider info that's helpful for parents as well as hilarious anecdotes as Robert and Camille let us in on what really goes on behind the scenes. From dorm shenanigans to studio mishaps, they've seen it all and they're here to spill the tea. Robert and Camille are also the founders of Ballet Scout. You can learn more about what they do on their website. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Sarah Wroth: The Impact of State Mandates on IU Dance | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:49:32 | |
In this conversation, Sarah Wroth discusses the current state of the ballet program at Indiana University, addressing concerns about state mandates and program restructuring. She emphasizes the strong support from the community and alumni, clarifies the differences between degree options, and reassures that current students will not be affected by changes. The conversation also highlights the importance of clear communication and the program's commitment to preparing students for successful careers in dance. Learn more about the IU Dance Program on their website Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| How Male Dance Connection Helps Male Ballet Dancers Thrive- Part 1 | 16 Jul 2025 | 00:47:35 | |
In this two-part series, siblings Bryce and Noelle Lee bring both the male and female ballet dancer perspective to the conversation. Bryce, Founder of the Male Dance Connection, and Noelle share their experiences in ballet, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of male dancers. They discuss the importance of mentorship, community, and supportive environments for boys in dance, as well as practical ways MDC helps, like navigating summer programs. They also talk about how hard it can be for young boys in ballet today. As working dancers themselves, they've created MDC to expand their network, supplement their income, and build careers beyond performing. Learn more about the Male Dance Connection on their website or on Instagram @themaledanceconnection Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| How Male Dance Connection Helps Male Ballet Dancers Thrive- Part 2 | 17 Jul 2025 | 01:09:04 | |
This is part two of our series with siblings Bryce and Noelle Lee, who bring both the male and female ballet dancer perspective to the conversation. Bryce, founder of the Male Dance Connection, and Noelle share their experiences in ballet, highlighting both the challenges and successes male dancers face. They talk about the importance of mentorship, community, and creating supportive environments for boys in dance, as well as practical ways MDC helps, like guidance for summer programs. They also discuss how tough it can be for young boys in ballet today. As working dancers, they've built MDC to grow their network, supplement their income, and create opportunities beyond performing. Learn more about the Male Dance Connection on their website or on Instagram @themaledanceconnection Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| MOSA Ballet School: Redefining Dance Training | 23 Jul 2025 | 01:22:23 | |
MOSA Ballet School was founded by a mother who wanted to create the kind of school she would have wanted her daughter to attend -- a place where students are truly heard and respected. Combining classical ballet, contemporary dance, and holistic training, MOSA focuses on developing not just the performer, but the whole dancer. The school emphasizes self-evaluation, open communication, a supportive environment, and career preparation to nurture artistic and personal growth. Learn more about Mosa on their website Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| #NoThirds: Full-Time Ballet Training -- The Trade-Offs | 24 Jul 2025 | 01:34:28 | |
When is it really time for a dancer to move into full-time training? In this episode of #NoThirds, we unpack the big factors that go into that decision. From the benefits of full-time programs and the right age to make the switch to how the social environment and quality of teaching can shape a dancer's growth, we cover it all. Fran also gets honest about the trade-offs of staying local in after-school training. Plus, we discuss why things like physical therapy access, peer dynamics, and open communication matter so much. This episode offers real talk and helpful insights to guide dancers and parents as they consider the next steps. Learn more about Fran and Veyette Virtual Ballet School More Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Racheal Nye On Shaping Ballet's Next Generation | 30 Jul 2025 | 01:08:42 | |
What does it take to raise dancers in today's ballet world? Racheal Nye, Director of the Yvonne Chouteau School and Studio Company at Oklahoma City Ballet, shares why honesty, adaptability, and mental health are essential in training. We talk about the pressures of audition season, how social media influences young dancers, the role of parents, and why leadership today is about more than just perfect technique. Learn more about OKCB School on their website Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Inside IBC Helsinki with Nicholas Ziegler | 06 Aug 2025 | 00:32:40 | |
Nicholas Ziegler, board member of IBC Helsinki, explains how the competition is structured, how dancers are selected, and what makes the event stand out. He shares tips for first-time competitors, talks about the role of the jury and master teachers, and reflects on the rapid growth of ballet competitions around the world. Learn more about IBC Helsinki on their website Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Inside IBC Jackson with Executive Director, Mona Nicholas | 13 Aug 2025 | 01:08:32 | |
Mona Nicholas takes us behind the scenes of the USA International Ballet Competition in Jackson, Mississippi. She shares how the event is structured, what makes it different from other competitions, and why it attracts dancers from around the world, including professionals. We cover the selection process, scoring, advice for first-time competitors, and the role IBC plays in shaping the future of ballet. You can learn more about USA IBC on their website. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| David Morse on Training Paths at Cincinnati Ballet | 20 Aug 2025 | 01:16:07 | |
David Morse, Academy Principal and Director of the Professional Training Division at Cincinnati Ballet Academy, joins us to share insights on how the school is structured, what adjudicators look for in auditions, and how scholarships work for students. He also discusses the culture he aims to foster at CBA, how the trainee and second company programs connect dancers to careers, and the realities of preparing young artists for professional life. From audition advice to navigating low salaries in ballet, David offers clear guidance for students and parents on the path to becoming a professional dancer. You can learn more about CBA on their website. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| #NoThirds: Fran's Mailbag, Part 2: Lessons for Young Dancers | 29 Aug 2025 | 01:00:45 | |
Fran shares more advice for students in Part 2 of #NoThirds: how respect and awareness shape auditions, why community matters, and what young dancers should know about contracts and career readiness. Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an exclusive discount. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| #NoThirds: Fran's Mailbag, Part 1: Company Casting, Drama & Dogs | 28 Aug 2025 | 01:03:19 | |
Listeners asked, and Fran Veyette answers! In this #NoThirds "Fran's Mailbag" episode, he breaks down how casting really works, whether principals dance less, what happens when dancers date (and break up), and yes — the truth about dogs in the studio. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Tune back in tomorrow for more of your questions answered. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Lauren Fadeley-Veyette: Life on the Set of Black Swan | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:59:37 | |
When the Oscar-winning film Black Swan hit theaters, audiences were captivated by its haunting portrayal of the ballet world. In this episode, former professional dancer Lauren Fadeley-Veyette shares her experience being cast in the movie and takes us inside the rehearsal studio and film set. She reflects on working alongside Hollywood stars, the unique challenges of filming ballet on camera, and why she thinks the movie still resonates years later. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Sarah & Seth Orza: Ballet Careers and Creating Orza Ballet Shoes | 03 Sep 2025 | 01:57:56 | |
Former Pacific Northwest Ballet principals Sarah and Seth Orza share their training backgrounds, the hardest parts of becoming professionals, and the advice that shaped their paths. They talk about company moves, the realities of life onstage, and the transition into founding Orza ballet shoes. The conversation covers prototyping, manufacturing, and the role of their ballet network in building the business, as well as how their experiences as dancers continue to guide their work today. If you want to try out Orza brand shoes, find exclusive discounts on our website. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Dancer Stories: Jaya Dhand's Journey to Ballet West | 10 Sep 2025 | 01:07:11 | |
This is the first episode in our new Dancer Stories series, where professional dancers share their training paths their move into company life. Jaya Dhand talks about her experience at Indiana University, how she got hired by Ballet West 2, and her recent promotion to the main company. She explains the choices that shaped her training, what the audition process was like, and how she adjusted to professional life. Jaya also shares what she wishes she'd known as a student, the realities of dancer finances, and her advice for those preparing to go pro. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| School of Richmond Ballet: Auditions, Training & Careers with Deanna Seay | 17 Sep 2025 | 01:15:14 | |
Deanna Seay, Training Coordinator at the School of Richmond Ballet, joins us to talk about how dancers move through the school, from early training to the pre-professional program, trainee level, and second company. She explains what adjudicators look for in auditions (and common mistakes), how scholarships work at different levels, and why not all of Richmond Ballet's trainees come from full-time training backgrounds. We also cover when families should consider a company-affiliated school, the culture Richmond Ballet aims to foster, and how students are prepared for both company life and a sustainable professional career. Read Reviews of The School of Richmond Ballet Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| The School of Philadelphia Ballet: Training, Trainees, and the Path to Company Life | 24 Sep 2025 | 01:16:55 | |
Davit Karapetyan, Director of The School of Philadelphia Ballet, joins us to talk about how the school is structured and how dancers move through its levels, from the pre-professional program to PBII and beyond. He explains how auditions are evaluated, what adjudicators look for, and the common mistakes dancers should avoid. We also dig into how scholarships are awarded and renewed, the housing available to students, and what families should consider when deciding if it is time to move to a company-affiliated school. Karapetyan discusses the realities of career planning at the postgraduate level, how many dancers transition into PBII and the main company, and the skills students need both inside and outside the studio before leaving home for residential training. Finally, he shares his perspective on navigating the financial realities of ballet, managing expectations in a competitive field, and what he wishes young dancers and parents better understood about the path to a professional career. Read Reviews of The School of Philadelphia Ballet Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| #NoThirds: Train Smarter, Not Harder | 25 Sep 2025 | 01:46:15 | |
In this episode of #NoThirds, we sit down with Fran Veyette, co-founder of Veyette Virtual Ballet School, to talk about the realities of ballet training and the role parents play in a dancer's journey. Fran shares why training smarter is more important than training harder, what families should consider when choosing summer intensives, and how experiences in a company setting can shape a dancer's future. We also look at the parenting side of ballet, including how to support your child while letting them face disappointment, why every child needs a different approach, and the life skills dancers should build early to prepare for a professional career. For parents and dancers, this episode offers practical insights into navigating the highs, lows and big decisions of pre-professional training. Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an exclusive discount. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Gavin Larsen: Infinite Steps and the Truth About Ballet Careers | 18 Mar 2026 | 01:12:33 | |
Author, teacher, and former principal dancer Gavin Larsen has spent her post-performance life doing something she loves just as much as dancing: drawing stories out of other people. Her new book, Infinite Steps: 33 Dancers and Their Lives in Ballet, grew out of a collaboration with longtime ABT staff photographer Gene Schiavone, who wanted the dancers behind his archive of images to be truly known, not just catalogued. In this conversation, Gavin sits down with us to talk about what surprised her while interviewing 33 dancers across generations and companies, why she thinks the Plan B conversation puts unfair pressure on students, and what she believes is the real cost of a ballet career that doesn't get talked about nearly enough. Hint: it's not the blisters. She also shares her take on the job market then versus now, what parents consistently get wrong, and why she finds it genuinely hopeful that kids keep walking into plain rooms, leaving their phones outside, and putting their ballet shoes on. Infinite Steps is available now wherever books are sold. Links:
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| Dancer Stories: Charlotte Junge of Madison Ballet on Going Pro, Paying Rent, and Finding Yourself | 11 Mar 2026 | 01:21:48 | |
What does it really take to go from pre-professional student to professional ballet dancer? Charlotte Junge, a company member with Madison Ballet, shares the unfiltered version of her journey from competition dance roots in Houston to training at Boston Ballet School through the height of COVID, to landing her contract via an Instagram DM from Artistic Director Ja' Malik. But the conversation doesn't stop at the audition story. Charlotte gets refreshingly honest about the financial realities of dancing at a smaller non-union company, the side jobs it takes to make rent, and the performance anxiety that caught her completely off guard once she turned professional. She also talks about how becoming a certified Pilates instructor gave her a second career path, a deeper understanding of her own body, and something she didn't expect: a sense of identity outside the studio. Charlotte's story is a masterclass in resilience, self-awareness, and figuring it out one season at a time. Links:
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| CiCi Houston Sudholt on Saint Louis Ballet's Career Pipeline | 28 Jan 2026 | 01:22:17 | |
CiCi Houston-Sudholt, Rehearsal Director at Saint Louis Ballet, discusses the organization's unique approach to dance education that puts students at the center. From integrating all levels of training to tailoring performance opportunities based on individual goals, Saint Louis Ballet adapts to each dancer's needs and aspirations. In this conversation, CiCi explains the structure of the trainee program and how it prepares dancers for professional careers. We discuss what makes Saint Louis Ballet's second company unique: dancers are part of AGMA and receive full union protections, which sets this program apart from many other post-graduate options. CiCi also discusses how the school balances academics with intensive training, their evolving recruitment and audition processes, and what they look for in prospective students. We explore performance opportunities available to students, how the school encourages dancers to find their own balance between dance and other commitments, and the emphasis on communication and accountability throughout the training process. If you're trying to understand what post-graduate pathways look like or evaluating whether a student-centered training environment is right for your dancer, this conversation offers practical insight into how Saint Louis Ballet structures their programs. Links:
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| We Asked, You Answered: Survey Results and What's Changing | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:29:11 | |
We asked you to tell us what you love about the Ballet Help Desk Podcast, what needs to improve, and what topics you want us to cover. And you delivered honest, thoughtful, sometimes tough feedback. In this episode, we share what you told us: what's working (our honest questioning, insider information, and ballet parent perspective), what we're fixing immediately (audio quality, ad transitions, and tighter editing), and what topics you want more of (younger dancers, international training, and financial transparency). We're also introducing new formats like Q&A episodes and expanding our content for parents of younger dancers just starting the journey. This is a transparent conversation about what we're doing well, what we're changing, and what's coming next. Thank you to everyone who participated. This podcast exists because of you, and we're committed to making it better. Links:
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| Dancer Story: Jayda Hazelett on the College Route to Pro Dancer | 21 Jan 2026 | 01:04:50 | |
Jayda Hazelett didn't follow the traditional pre-professional boarding school path to a ballet company. The Ballet Hartford corps member grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, trained locally at Project Ballet, attended summer intensives, and chose to pursue college at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music before entering the professional world. In this Dancer Story, Jayda shares why she chose to stay home for training, how summer intensives supplemented her education, and what the college ballet experience gave her. We also discuss the challenges of pursuing a professional career, the importance of mentorship, pivotal moments that shaped her path, mental health in ballet, and her future aspirations including dreams of Broadway. After graduating in 2024, Jayda joined Ballet Hartford as an apprentice and was recently promoted to the corps for the 2025-2026 season. If you're wondering whether staying local or choosing the college route means giving up on a professional career, Jayda's story proves there's more than one path forward. Links:
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| Paulo Arrais on Ballet Training That Honors the Whole Dancer | 14 Jan 2026 | 01:20:18 | |
What does it mean to train dancers without "training them out of being natural"? For Paulo Arrais, founder of Arrais Ballet School in Boston, that question shaped his entire approach to teaching. A former principal dancer with Boston Ballet, Paulo saw gaps in traditional ballet training: rigidity over artistry, pressure over presence. He decided to build a school that addressed them. In this episode, he walks us through his journey from student to performer to educator, the core values that define his school, and how he helps students navigate everything from technical growth to postgraduate ballet training decisions. We also dive into the unique challenges boys face in ballet, how independent schools fit into the larger training ecosystem, and what Paulo believes needs to change in ballet education. This is a candid, grounded conversation about preparing dancers for sustainable, meaningful careers. If you're exploring pre-professional ballet programs, preparing for ballet auditions, or curious about career pathways in classical ballet, this conversation offers insight into what thoughtful ballet education looks like today. Learn more about the 2026 Summer Intensive here.
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| Joshua Beamish & Crystal Costa: Ballet Vancouver | 07 Jan 2026 | 01:23:08 | |
Joshua Beamish and Crystal Costa are building something new in the ballet world. Ballet Vancouver is launching as a fresh company with a unique vision, and in this episode, they share the story of how it all came together. Joshua talks about starting his first company at just 17 years old and the 20-year journey that led him here. Crystal shares how she got involved and her work helping dancers understand the realities of a professional career through her workshop, Dance as a Profession. We cover their personal dance journeys, the hardest parts of their training, and the fork-in-the-road moments that shaped their paths. They also open up about what they'd change about ballet training if they could, and things they wish all ballet students knew about pursuing this career. Looking ahead, Joshua and Crystal reveal what will make Ballet Vancouver different from other companies, their plans for a summer intensive in 2026 and what they're looking for when hiring dancers. They also discuss their innovative structure combining guest artists, guest companies, and local performers and explain how they're funding this ambitious new venture. If you're curious about what it takes to start a ballet company from scratch, or you're a dancer wondering what artistic directors look for, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at building the future of ballet. Links:
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| It's Kickoff Time For Our Summer Intensive Boot Camp! | 01 Nov 2023 | 00:38:21 | |
As the kickoff to the Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Boot Camp, Brett and Jenny discuss what matters in a summer intensive and how dancers should think strategically about them. Ballet Help Desk also covers what dancers should consider in evaluating all of the programs out there. | |||
| Peter Stark on the State of the Ballet Job Market: A Rerelease | 31 Dec 2025 | 01:09:37 | |
We're rereleasing one of Ballet Help Desk's most popular episodes! Peter Stark from The Rock School discusses the ballet job market, choosing post-graduate ballet programs, and audition strategies for pre-professional dancers. Learn how to approach ballet auditions, what trainee programs look for, and how to stand out as you transition from ballet student to professional dancer. Links:
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| Jenny's Favorite Episode - Abbey's 1st Contract | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:16:34 | |
A rerelease: In our first episode of Dancer Stories, Jenny and her daughter Abbey share how Abbey got her first ballet contract. Tune in to hear how a meeting about dorm policy violations at a summer intensive turned into an apprenticeship offer with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. After a last-minute decision to attend the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Company Experience, Abbey's unexpected journey underscores the importance of seizing opportunities—you never know where they might lead! Learn more about Pittsburgh Ballet Theater on their website. Interested in following Abbey's career? You can find her on Instagram @abbeyahuang Links:
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| Raymond Rodriguez on Pittsburgh Ballet's Company Experience | 24 Dec 2025 | 00:33:25 | |
Raymond Rodriguez, Dean of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School, breaks down their Company Experience program and why they created it. Unlike traditional summer intensives, the Company Experience simulates professional dancer life through repertoire-heavy training and direct interaction with Pittsburgh Ballet's artistic staff. Raymond explains what a typical day looks like, the types of choreography students work on, and who mentors participants throughout the program. The conversation covers how the program helps dancers understand company realities, what discussions happen around professional life expectations, and who should consider attending. Raymond also addresses opportunities for students to be observed by artistic staff and how often participants transition into Pittsburgh Ballet's postgraduate levels or main company. He shares what sets Pittsburgh Ballet's approach apart from similar company experience programs and offers guidance on whether this type of specialized training is the right next step. If you're considering programs that go beyond traditional technique-focused intensives, this episode explains how Pittsburgh Ballet prepares dancers for professional life. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: Takeways
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| How Philadelphia Ballet Does Summer: Three Unique Programs | 19 Dec 2025 | 00:55:29 | |
Davit Karapetyan and Laura Bowman Goldstein from Philadelphia Ballet break down three focused summer programs designed for dancers considering specialized training: the Pas de Deux Intensive, Variations Intensive, and Company Experience. They start with partnering, an essential skill that many students cannot get in their local schools. Davit and Laura talk about how much partnering really matters in today's job market, what experience dancers need going in, and how this intensive tackles the challenges students struggle with most. Next, they dive into the Variations Intensive, where dancers receive targeted competition coaching and individualized feedback. They explain why dedicated variation work matters, how pieces are chosen, and what dancers can expect from the final showing. Finally, the Company Experience offers a taste of professional life, with daily training and direct access to Philadelphia Ballet's artistic staff. The conversation covers schedules, repertoire, and how often students move from this program into trainee, second company, or even the main company. Davit and Laura also share guidance for dancers and parents trying to decide which program makes the most sense, and what sets Philadelphia Ballet's summer training apart. If you are looking beyond a traditional summer intensive, this episode lays out three distinct options and who each one is really for. Learn more about Philly's summer programs. Links:
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| Durante Verzola on Miami City Ballet's Choreo Workshop | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:34:27 | |
Durante Verzola, resident choreographer for Miami City Ballet School, breaks down their Summer Choreographic Workshop, a specialized program that simulates professional dancer life for students as young as 14. Unlike traditional summer intensives, this program focuses on preparing dancers for the quick turnaround and varied repertory demands of company life. Durante explains why they created a separate choreographic track, how company artistic staff are involved, and what types of mentors and choreographers work with participants. The conversation covers the balance between new and existing works, whether students learn to choreograph themselves, and what the final performance looks like. Durante discusses why younger dancers benefit from this experience, how often participants transition into Miami City Ballet's year-round program, and what common growth areas he observes. He also addresses why specialized programs like this are growing in popularity and what sets Miami City Ballet's approach apart from similar workshops. If you're considering programs that go beyond traditional technique training, this episode explains what makes the choreographic workshop format valuable for pre-professional dancers. Learn more on the MCBS website. Links:
Takeaways
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| Madison Ballet's Ja'Malik Is Done with the Old Way | 04 Mar 2026 | 01:25:35 | |
Madison Ballet's Ja'Malik didn't arrive to tinker around the edges. He came to change things, and four years in, it's working. He shares a journey that started with Michael Jackson's Thriller in his front yard and led him through the Joffrey Ballet School, the Ailey school, and North Carolina Dance Theater before landing him in the director's chair in Wisconsin. He talks about what it was like to grow up in ballet without seeing anyone who looked like him on stage, what finally changed that, and why he's determined to make sure the next generation doesn't have the same experience. We also dig into the harder stuff: the culture of fear in the studio, what it means to actually lead with mental health in mind rather than just put it on a poster, the very real challenge of getting boys through the door, and why ballet companies cannot survive on the same loyal audience forever. Oh, and he's also running the school, the marketing, and the development. The man does not sleep. Links:
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| Kansas City Ballet's Summer ChoreoLab for Makers & Movers | 12 Dec 2025 | 00:44:58 | |
Oliver Till, Artistic Director of Kansas City Ballet School, walks us through ChoreoLab, their unique summer program that pairs aspiring dancers with emerging choreographers. The program runs two tracks: Movers (dancers 17+) and Makers (choreographers 18-24). Instead of traditional technique classes, participants collaborate on original work, learning about lighting, costume design, and tech rehearsals along the way. The focus is on the creative process, not just the final product, with dancers exploring new movement styles they wouldn't encounter in standard training. Oliver explains the application process, including in-person auditions for dancers and portfolio-based selection for choreographers. He discusses why the program culminates in a ticketed performance to raise the stakes, and how they've incorporated mindfulness sessions to support mental well-being during the intensive creative process. If you're interested in choreography, want to understand how professional work gets made, or are looking for a summer program that goes beyond technique, this episode breaks down what makes ChoreoLab different. Links:
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| Colorado Ballet Gets Creative: Two Unique Summer Programs | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:51:52 | |
Erica Fischbach and Sean Omandam from Colorado Ballet Academy break down two of their specialized summer programs: the Choreographic Workshop and the Young Dancer Intensive. The Choreographic Workshop immerses older students in a professional-style setting where they learn to pick up choreography quickly, work with mentors, and develop their artistic voice. Artist talks expose participants to what life is like as a professional ballet dancer. The location? You'll want to hear where this program takes place -- it's an environment that enhances creativity in a way most studios can't match! The Young Dancer Intensive is designed for younger students, balancing quality training with fun activities outside the studio. What sets it apart? It's one of the only programs like it that offers housing where parents and kids can stay together, providing comfort and support for younger dancers taking their first step into intensive training. Learn more about these ballet summer intensives on their website: https://coloradoballet.org/Academy-Summer-Programs Links:
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| Washington School of Ballet's Summer Repertory Programs | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:38:58 | |
Before you listen, please consider taking our podcast survey to help us improve what we do: Katie Sopoci Drake and Zoica Tovar from the Washington School of Ballet break down their Junior and Senior Repertory Week programs in this episode. The two programs serve different levels of dancers, and our guests explain how each one works and what participants can expect. They discuss the school's teaching methods, how they work with different learning styles, and what it takes to move from student training to professional dancing. The conversation covers mentorship structures, choreography opportunities for participants, and performance requirements at each level. Katie and Zoica also share what traits they look for in successful dancers and how artistic director Edwaard Liang's involvement shapes the training experience. If you're researching summer intensives or want to understand how pre-professional ballet training works, this episode provides a practical look at what happens during these programs and why the school structures them the way they do. Learn more about The Washington School of Ballet's Summer Programs here: Takeaways:
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| How to Approach Audition Season Like a Pro with Jess Spinner | 26 Nov 2025 | 01:10:58 | |
Audition season is here again, and we're revisiting one of our most requested conversations. In this episode, Jess Spinner, founder of The Whole Dancer, breaks down how dancers can create an audition approach that actually works for them. She shares strategies for choosing auditions, tailoring a plan to the type of job you're pursuing, and managing the mental, physical, and emotional pressure that comes with this time of year. Learn more about Jess here: https://www.thewholedancer.com/audition-coaching/ Schedule a free consultation: https://calendly.com/jess-spinner/complimentary-dancer-coaching-blwc-clone?month=2025-11Links:
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| #NoThirds: Bullying In Ballet - What Parents Need To Know (Part 2) | 20 Nov 2025 | 01:04:07 | |
Before you listen, please consider taking our quick podcast survey so we can continue improving the show. Link: https://forms.gle/Uf3Xx3XyEUzBtQw69 In Part 2 of our #NoThirds series on bullying in ballet, we dig deeper into accountability, emotional health, and what it actually looks like to navigate harmful dynamics inside dance environments. Our guests explore how parents, students, and schools can recognize the signs of toxic training, respond to concerning behavior, and create space for honest conversations about what dancers are experiencing. As we address listener questions, we discuss the importance of listening closely to children, understanding the emotions behind their reactions, and knowing when a parent needs to step in. We also look at how communication with school leadership can resolve issues, why empowering dancers to speak up matters, and how consistent check-ins at home help identify problems early. The episode touches on the influence of social media and the value of reviews in pushing programs to improve. Part 2 continues the conversation parents and dancers need right now. Learn more about Kelsey Fyffe: https://www.livemindfullypsychotherapy.com/dancers-athletes Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an exclusive discount: https://ballethelpdesk.com/backtoschool/ Links:
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| #NoThirds: Bullying In Ballet - What Parents Need To Know (Part 1) | 19 Nov 2025 | 01:08:57 | |
Before you listen, we'd love your help. Please take a minute to fill out our short podcast survey so we can keep making this show better for you. Link: https://forms.gle/Uf3Xx3XyEUzBtQw69 In Part 1 of our #NoThirds series on bullying in ballet, we sit down with two experts to unpack what bullying looks like in today's dance world. Dr. Suzette Takei, a longtime middle school principal with a PhD, and Kelsey Fyffe, a licensed therapist who works with high-performing dancers and athletes, offer clear, grounded insight into how bullying is defined, how it develops, and how it affects young people. Fran Veyette adds his perspective from inside the ballet studio and helps frame how these issues can show up in day-to-day training. Together, the conversation explores the difference between bullying and abuse, the influence of social media, the roles parents and teachers play in responding to problems, and the importance of emotional awareness in preventing unhealthy environments. This episode sets the stage for understanding how bullying takes root in ballet settings and how families, teachers, and students can work toward building a more supportive studio culture. In part 2, we begin to address the listener questions we received. Learn more about Kelsey Fyffe: https://www.livemindfullypsychotherapy.com/dancers-athletes Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an exclusive discount: https://ballethelpdesk.com/backtoschool/ Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Part 2: The Nutcracker That Almost Wasn't | 13 Nov 2025 | 01:12:29 | |
In Part 2 of our conversation with Troy Schumacher, Sara Mearns and Annie Sundberg, we pick up as opening night of The Nutcracker at Wethersfield draws near. From a massive snowstorm that nearly shut everything down to the emotions that swept over the dancers once the curtain finally rose, Troy shares what it took to bring this extraordinary production to life in the middle of a pandemic. The Nutcracker at Wethersfield documentary has its world premiere at DocNYC on November 16th and 20th, followed by a theatrical release at select cinemas, including a special screening and Q&A on December 13th at the New Plaza Cinema in New York. Find out if the film is screening near you at nutcrackerfilm.com.
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| How Troy Schumacher Saved Nutcracker | 12 Nov 2025 | 01:04:30 | |
What would you do if, for the first time in forever, Nutcracker got canceled? This is what hundreds of thousands of ballet fans and thousands of dancers were faced with in the Winter of 2020. Covid had shut down the world and it was particularly bad in New York City. Enter Troy Schumacher, a soloist with the New York City Ballet and the founder of the Ballet Collective. Troy found a way to stage a Nutcracker, attract an audience and keep a bunch of dancers employed. Tune in to our two-part episode to hear all about how Troy pulled this off, why Sara Mearns got involved and how Emmy nominated filmmaker, Annie Sundberg captured all of it in a documentary that airs in November 2025. The Nutcracker at Wethersfield is having its world premiere at DocNYC on November 16th and November 20th, followed by a theatrical release at select cinemas with a special screening and Q&A on December 13th at the New Plaza Cinema in New York. To find out if the film is screening near you this holiday season, please visit nutcrackerfilm.comIf you're a dance company or a school and you wish to hold a screening you can reach out via the film website. The film will be available to stream on the GATHR app for a special holiday window 12/21 – 1/5. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
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| #NoThirds with Fran Veyette - The Myth of the Perfect Ballet Path (Part 2) | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:54:37 | |
There's no such thing as a perfect path in ballet, and few people know that better than Francis Veyette, Co-Founder of the Veyette Virtual Ballet School. In part 2 of this episode of #NoThirds, Fran continues to discuss the ups and downs of a dance career, how setbacks can create unexpected growth, and why parental support and trust are critical along the way. He also explains how dancers can better navigate feedback, understand company dynamics, and use peer networks to stay informed. It's a candid look at the messy, unpredictable reality of building a career in ballet, and how to make the most of it. Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an exclusive discount. Links:
Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI | |||
| Rewriting the Ballet Rulebook: Avant Chamber Ballet | 05 Nov 2025 | 01:32:00 | |
Avant Chamber Ballet is redefining what a regional ballet company can be – performing with live musicians, championing diversity and dancer wellness, and connecting with audiences far beyond traditional theaters. In this episode, Artistic Director Katie Puder and School Director Madelaine Boyce share how they've built a company that's both artistically ambitious and community-minded. They discuss Avant's mission to make ballet more accessible across Dallas, why live music matters, and what makes their trainee program unique. You'll also hear their honest take on college vs. trainee paths, the realities of running a small company, and what today's dancers need to know about navigating the professional ballet world. Tune in to hear what it takes to start, and sustain, a ballet company that does things differently. Learn more about Avant Chamber Ballet on their website Links:
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| #NoThirds: Bullying in Ballet: The Lobby, the Queen Bee & You | 26 Feb 2026 | 01:37:51 | |
In the final episode of our four-part bullying series, we're joined again by Kelsey Fyffe, a therapist who works with pre-professional dancers, and Suzette Takei, a veteran academic school administrator and educator, as we get into the messy stuff. Lobby politics, ballet parents behaving badly, peer conflict between students, nepotism at the dance studio, and yes, that one kid who thinks the entire barre belongs to her. We also tackle some bigger questions: how do you know when a ballet training environment has turned toxic? What do you do when your dancer is being bullied by a classmate, a teacher's pet, or even another parent? And what does any of this have to do with your own stress and mental health? The conversation we didn't expect to have and couldn't stop having was about you, the ballet parent, and the stress that quietly leaks onto everyone around you without you even realizing it. If you're new here, start with Parts 1 through 3 first as this series builds on itself. Links:
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