In this continuation of my interview with Denise Wall, which I conducted while Julian and I were in New York City last summer during the ABT Summer Intensive, she discusses issues of sibling rivalry, sexuality and peer pressure. Denise and I met at the New York City Dance Alliance finals, where students from her studio […]
Denise Wall On Raising Dancin' Boys (Part 1)
Two years ago I wrote a cover story for Dance Teacher magazine based on an interview with Denise Wall. I proposed the story to the editors there because I felt quite taken with the dancers her studio, Denise Wall’s Dance Energy in Virginia Beach, VA, turned out. They not only had phenomenal technique but danced […]
Whatcha Think of Men in Tutus and Pointe Shoes?
I noticed the other day that a “different” ballet company would be performing in our area, and I really thought I might want to get some tickets to see a performance – especially since the company consisted of ALL MEN! However, I quickly changed my mind after watching a few videos online. The company is […]
Words of Wisdom from Julian's First Male Teacher and Mentor
When Julian was quite young, his first male teacher provided a superb mentor. Now he offers words of wisdom to all boys who dance. And he encourages those boys starting late to work hard and catch up — just as he did.
Preparing for Going Solo Performance and Copellia
Things are gearing up again. Julian has been practicing an old routine of his from a few years ago called “Hats” for solo studio performance on Thursday. We didn’t realize that he could actually perform in this event, so he didn’t prepare a solo. (We’ll know for next year.) So, he pulled out his very-successful […]
When Losing Dance Becomes a Consequence for Missed Homework Assignments and Bad Grades (and a Note on the Sexuality Issue)
It’s the Friday before the holiday break. Normally, I’d be breathing a sigh of relief. No dance for two whole weeks! No getting up early for school! Less driving! Less stress! No homework hassles! But no…not in this household. Instead, I’ll be managing my delinquent son’s midterm study schedule (and habits…or lack thereof) and his […]
When Issues of Sexuality Cause Emotional Turmoil
Well…it seems a few of Julian’s missed assignments were caused by some emotional turmoil on my poor son’s part. After much lecturing and talking and discussing – yes, I let him talk, too – Julian spilled the beans. A fellow male dancer who is not shy about admitting he is gay told Julian he thought […]