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: Are comps essential for landing trainee or second company spots? Do they actually help with long-term career goals? Why are so many schools and companies participating now? What’s the real value compared to strong training and company performances? 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: Support Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide Buy Summer Corrections Journals Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
29/5/2025
1:30:22
Victoria Mazzarelli on Nurturing Talent at Nutmeg Conservatory
Victoria Mazzarelli, Artistic Director of the Nutmeg Conservatory, joins us to share what sets this independent ballet conservatory apart. Widely known for its warm and nurturing environment, Victoria covers everything from curriculum and housing to performance opportunities, as well as the school's postgraduate program. She also explains how Nutmeg supports its students both in and out of the studio, what kind of dancer thrives in their environment, and how they help students navigate big decisions about career paths. Learn more about Nutmeg Read reviews of the school More Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide Buy Summer Corrections Journals Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
28/5/2025
1:13:23
Barre Trash: Style With a Healthy Dose of Side-Eye
We all know that dancers have their own unique style. Welcome to our interview with the founders of Barre Trash, Lucas Labrador and Louis DeFelice as they let us in on ballet’s not-so-glamorous side—with honesty, humor, and a sharp eye for merch. In this episode, they talk about how Barre Trash was born, what the name really means, and how their side hustle turned into a platform for both laughter and change. From surviving on dancer salaries to calling out industry nonsense, Lucas and Louis share why they believe humor is a coping mechanism—and a catalyst for reform. Plus: the Yale detour, the realities of multi-hyphenate life, and what they’d put on a T-shirt if they could sum up ballet in one phrase. You can shop Barre Trash products on the Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide or on the Barre Trash website More Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide Buy Summer Corrections Journals Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
21/5/2025
52:26
How DeCruz Ballet Is Changing Ballet Training
Why open a ballet school in San Antonio? Former Pacific Northwest Ballet principals Lindsi Dec and Karel Cruz share what inspired them to found DeCruz Ballet, how their training model stands apart, and where they see their school fitting into the evolving ballet ecosystem. They discuss everything from attracting male students and navigating competition culture, to counseling dancers through audition season and offering guidance on college ballet paths and postgrad training. With honest insight and a dancer-first mindset, Dec and Cruz are shaping the next generation their way. Learn more about DeCruz Ballet School Read reviews of the school More Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide Buy Summer Corrections Journals Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
14/5/2025
1:21:48
Silas Farley on Ballet, Belonging, and Life After Performing
Silas Farley walked away from his performing career while he was arguably at the top of his game. In this thoughtful and deeply personal conversation, Farley—former New York City Ballet dancer and current choreographer, educator, and leader—reflects on his journey through the ballet world. He shares how his cultural background shaped his experience, the pressures of representation, and what ultimately led him to step away from the stage at a young age. Silas opens up about the emotional challenges of transition, the role of faith and mentorship, and why he’s committed to building a more inclusive and emotionally intelligent future for ballet. We also explore how training can evolve without losing its rigor, and what he’d say to a young boy considering dance today. This is a must-listen for anyone questioning what it means to succeed in ballet—and how to define that for yourself. Learn more about Silas Farley and his curent role as Armstrong Artist in Residence, Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University. More Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide Buy Summer Corrections Journals Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
As parents, you play a crucial role in supporting your dancer’s ballet path and we know navigating the world of ballet training can be challenging. The Ballet Help Desk podcast is here to help! Tune in for expert insights on supporting your student’s ballet education. We cover key topics like summer intensives, ballet competitions, full-time and postgraduate training, health and wellness, boys in ballet and more. Hear valuable advice from leading professionals across the ballet world to help your dancer make the most informed decisions about their unique training path. Learn more at www.ballethelpdesk.com.
Ireland