Recently Julian mentioned to his father that he felt he’d always ended up at the right place at the right time in his career. In other words, somehow we made the right studio, summer intensive or teacher choices at the right time in his career. He sees that now in the effects on his dancing, […]
5 Questions to Ask Before Sending Your Dancin’ Boy to Europe (Part 2)
Is your son considering taking a “job” dancing for a European company? Are you and he trying to decide if this is the right choice for him? As a parent, are you trying to determine if he—and you—are ready for him to be so far away from home as he makes the leap into the […]
5 Questions to Ask Before Sending Your Dancin’ Boy to Europe (Part 1)
Sending your son off to dance in Europe represents a life changing event for both parent and dancer. Therefore, you want to consider carefully if it is a good decision for one or both of you, although the primary person it will affect is the dancer. It must be a good decision for the dancer […]
Wilhelm Burmann Talks About How Boys Can Succeed as Dancers (Part 3)
This is the third and final part of my interview with Wilhelm Burmann, who many professional and aspiring professional dancers take class from daily at Steps on Broadway in New York City. Willy has trained the best of the best in the New York dance community. From corps members to principles and soloists to Broadway […]
My Son Becomes an Apprentice
Julian’s long audition process, filled with excitement, disappointment, stress, and happiness, has come to an end. And with its conclusion, he transitions from ballet student to professional dancer. Sort of… After receiving four other job offers, and (I’m assuming) still being on the so-called “watch list” for a trainee position during the upcoming San Francisco […]
A Commendation To Dancin’ Boy Moms Everywhere
This Mother’s Day I’d like to commend all my readers who are the mothers of dancin’ boys for doing what you do–all of it. It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it. While some Dad’s help, even do a lot, as much or more (like my husband), not all of them do. And […]
How Young Ballet Dancers Land Company Jobs
If you’ve been wondering why I’ve been quiet lately, here’s why: Mum’s the word. I can’t really talk about what’s been going on with Julian–not yet. Why? He’s been auditioning for ballet companies and getting…well…recruited. Yes, it seems a bit like having a young baseball, basketball, football, or soccer player who is being recruited by […]
Is The Joffrey Right for Your Son? How to Choose a Style and Company
Not long ago I was asked to help promote a documentary film on The Joffrey Ballet that will be released in January. I have a soft spot for The Joffrey, since one of Julian’s YAGP partners, Jeraldine Mendoza, landed a job with this ballet company, so I was quick to respond that I would, indeed, […]