In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Anderson, the first Black principal dancer with Houston Ballet, and Dr. Jessica Klanderud, a professor of African American history and ballet parent. Lauren reflects on her groundbreaking career, shares her thoughts on ballet competitions, and discusses the industry's ongoing diversity challenges. Dr. Klanderud discusses the roots of traditionalism and why “Ballet is pink” just won’t work anymore. She also introduces Our Pointe, her YouTube channel where she shares an innovative technique she developed to help dancers dye pointe shoes to match skin tones. By offering this simple, affordable solution, she’s contributing to greater inclusivity in ballet, ensuring all dancers can feel beautiful.

Learn more about Lauren Anderson on her website:

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Holiday Gift Guide
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode, Elizabeth Sullivan, a mentor to pre-professional dancers, discusses the concept of mental fitness and why it’s essential for ballet parents. We explore the challenges of guiding young dancers through an increasingly complex ballet landscape—where training opportunities are vast, but professional roles remain limited. Elizabeth offers insights into setting realistic expectations for audition season, from summer intensives to professional opportunities, and sheds light on the unique standards of “potential” and “facility” in ballet versus other sports. She also explains how mental flexibility can support a dancer’s growth, while discussing the evolving role of parents as their dancers progress toward potential careers. Don’t miss this deep dive into practical advice and supportive strategies for navigating the ballet world with clarity and resilience.

You can learn more about Elizabeth on her website.

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Holiday Gift Guide
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode Griff Braun, National Organizing Director of the American Guild of Musical Artists, discusses the role of unions in the ballet world. Griff shares insights into AGMA’s advocacy for dancer rights, safety, and equitable treatment, including their recent work supporting the dancers of Dallas Black Dance Theater. He illustrated the challenges and victories in labor relations and why union representation is key for today’s dancers. For anyone interested in how AGMA supports the arts, this episode is for you.

Learn more about AGMA on their website.

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Holiday Gift Guide
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode, we talk with Caitlin Sloan, the Brainy Ballerina, about her approach to audition coaching. Caitlin explains how she helps students develop personalized audition strategies that consider more than just ballet, setting them up for success in and beyond the studio.

Learn more about Caitlin and The Brainy Ballerina on her website. And, don't forget to check out her Audition Hub for all her great resources to help your dancer!

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode, Jess Spinner of The Whole Dancer shares her approach to helping ballet dancers navigate the audition circuit. She offers strategies for auditioning, advice on setting a personalized audition plan that aligns with the type of job they’re aiming for, and insights on the mental, physical, and emotional preparation needed to stay grounded and confident throughout the process.

Learn more about Jess and The Whole Dancer on her website.

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode, Philip Neal, former Principal Dancer with New York City Ballet and current Artistic Director of Next Generation Ballet, shares insights on shaping up and coming dancers, while championing the art of ballet. Neal discusses his transition from performing to directing, the importance of mentorship, and how he helps his dancers find placements in trainee and second company positions. He also highlights the balance between fostering excellence and keeping the passion for the art form alive.

Learn more about Next Generation Ballet on their website.

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode, we sit down with Julie Bowers, former Royal Ballet dancer and founder of Grad Pro, an innovative program designed to help dancers bridge the gap between training and professional careers. Julie shares how her experiences and insights into the challenges dancers face in today's job market, especially post-Covid, led her to create the organization. We discuss the various programs offered, including postgraduate training, career mentoring, and international showcases, all aimed at helping dancers take that next step toward goal of dancing professionally. If you're a dancer or a parent of one, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Learn more about Grad Pro on their website.

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Discounts On Your Favorite Ballet Brands!
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode, we chat with Cecilia Iliesiu, Principal Dancer at Pacific Northwest Ballet and a ballet career coach. As we're headed into audition season, Cecilia discusses the importance of networking in the industry and offers practical tips for aspiring artists on building meaningful connections, setting career goals, and making informed decisions. Her expertise provides essential guidance as dancers start to gather and send out their audition packages. Tune in for valuable advice that can benefit every dancer.

Learn more about Cecilia's career coaching services on her website.

Links:

• Ballet Help Desk
• Buy Corrections Journals
• Discounts On Your Favorite Ballet Brands!
• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI