
Ballet Help Desk
Jenny Huang and Brett Gardner
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.
- 194 episodes
- Updated Wednesday
Episodes194
Nov 29, 2023 · 42 min- BH
Nov 17, 2023 · 42 minBallet Audition Photos And Videos: A Definitive Guide
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Tune in for our chat with Emily Brunner, a professional dance photographer based in the Philadelphia metro area. Emily shares invaluable insights on camera positioning, perfect lighting techniques, and the secrets to capturing stunning audition photos and videos. Emily Brunner Photography: https://www.emilybrunnerphotography.com/
- BH
Nov 12, 2023 · 1 hr 30 minWhat Boys Should Look For In Ballet Summer Intensives
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Boys face unique challenges in ballet and summer intensives are no different. Join us as we sit down with some seasoned parents of male ballet dancers to discuss hurdles they've all had to overcome as well as how each family took a unique approach to attending summer ballet intensives
- BH
Nov 8, 2023 · 1 hr 8 minThe Audition Blueprint: Advice From Robert Fulton, Co-Founder of Ballet Scout
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Join us as Ballet Help Desk sits down with Robert Fulton, a dancer with Nevada Ballet Theatre and the Co-Founder of Ballet Scout. Robert takes us through not only how Ballet Scout can help with sourcing auditions, but he also talks, in detail, about what dancers should consider when conducting their searches, thing to consider about programs and what matters in evaluating potential summer intensives. And, don't forget to check out the Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Boot Camp!
- BH
Nov 7, 2023 · 34 minPlié & Slay! A Guide To Researching & Scheduling Ballet Summer Intensive Auditions
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Can you believe it's already time for ballet summer intensive planning? You're thinking, "we just finished this summer! Well, buckle up! It's time for researching and developing that summer intensive audition list. Jenny and Brett give you a detailed overview of how to get it all done! Check out everything else you need to nail summer intensive season here: https://ballethelpdesk.com/summer-intensive-bootcamp
- BH
Nov 1, 2023 · 38 minIt's Kickoff Time For Our Summer Intensive Boot Camp!
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk 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.
- BH
Oct 21, 2023 · 1 hr 10 minFrancis Veyette: What The Heck Does Potential, Facility and Body Type REALLY Mean?
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk sits down with Francis Veyette, a former principal dancer with Pennsylvania (now Philadelphia) Ballet and the Co-Founder of the Veyette Virtual Ballet School. In this episode, we tackle all of those loaded terms like potential, facility, and body type. Fran helps demystify what they all mean and also talks about what traits a dancer needs to have to be successful.
- BH
Oct 8, 2023 · 1 hr 1 minInsights from Peter Merz, Regional Tour Director of ADC IBC
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk In this episode, we chat with Peter Merz, the Regional Tour Director of the ADC IBC ballet competition. Peter's extensive experience and knowledge in the field provides a no-nonsense look at the inner workings of ADC IBC, its role in shaping the ballet landscape, and the impact it has on aspiring dancers worldwide. If you're seeking straightforward, factual information about ballet competitions and the role they play in the dance community, this episode is a valuable resource. Peter's expertise offers a clear and insightful perspective for anyone interested in the art of ballet and the competitions that help shape its future. If you like what your hear, please be sure to leave us a review! ADC|IBC: https://www.adcibc.com/
- BH
Oct 4, 2023 · 1 hr 3 minVasile Petritiu Unplugged: Founder of World Ballet Competition
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Join us as we sit down with Vasile Petrutiu, the founder of the World Ballet Competition, to hear him explain why he founded the event as well as why it's different from the other ballet competitions in terms of scoring and transparency. And, be sure to listen as Mr. Petritiu lets us in on some pretty wacky things that happened over the years!
- BH
Oct 4, 2023 · 1 hr 16 minThe YAGP Effect: A Chat With YAGP's Hailey Kolker And Sergey Gordeev
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Join us for an insightful conversation with Hailey Kolker and Sergey Gordeev, two senior members of Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), the world's largest student ballet competition. In this episode, we delve into the impact of YAGP on the world of dance, exploring its influence on young dancers and the broader dance community. Hailey and Sergey offer unique perspectives on the journey of budding dancers, discussing the myriad opportunities provided by YAGP. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the YAGP experience and the ways in which it continues to shape the future of dance worldwide.
- BH
Sep 30, 2023 · 1 hr 14 minJenifer Ringer And James Fayette on Judging Ballet Competitions
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Join us as we chat with Jennifer Ringer and James Fayette, former dancers of the iconic New York City Ballet, who now offer their expertise as respected judges in the ballet competition world. Hear their thoughts on how ballet competitions fit into the overall training regime, what they love to see from competitors and more!
- BH
Sep 28, 2023 · 1 hr 20 minBoys In Ballet: A Definitive Discussion With ABT Dancer, Patrick Frenette
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk In this episode, we are joined by Patrick Frenette, a dancer with the American Ballet Theater and one of the co-founders of the Boys Ballet Summer Intensive. Mr. Frenette shares his insights into the challenges and triumphs of boys who dare to dance through a candid conversation, heartfelt anecdotes, and valuable advice, shedding light on the transformative power of dance and the importance of breaking gender stereotypes in the ballet community. Boys Ballet Summer Intensive: https://boysballetsummerintensive.com/ Patricke Frenette in Dance Magazine: https://pointemagazine.com/patrick-frenette-ballet/ Danseur Documentary: http://danseurmovie.com/
- BH
Sep 20, 2023 · 19 min🩰 Peter Stark: What's The Point Of Ballet Competitions 🩰
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Join us for an exclusive episode where we dive into the world of ballet competitions with none other than the esteemed Peter Stark, President and Director of The Rock School For Dance Education. As a renowned figure in the dance community, Peter brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our discussion. In our conversation, we explore the intricacies of ballet competitions, from the rigorous training required to the emotional and artistic challenges dancers face on their journey to the stage. Peter lets us in on his thoughts on performance preparation, the role of judges in shaping the next generation of ballet dancers, and the evolving landscape of ballet competitions. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the industry's most respected voices. 🎙️🩰✨ Please review our podcast! #BalletSpotlight #PeterStarkInterview #YAGP Website: https://www.therockschool.org/ Instagram: @rockschooldance
- BH
Sep 15, 2023 · 1 hr 2 minOn Pointe: In the Judge's Chair with Deirdre Miles-Burger
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Join us as we sit down with Deirdre Miles-Burger, a distinguished ballet competition judge with years of experience in the dance world. Ms. Miles-Burger helps pull back the curtain on what judges really think. What do judges love to see from competitors on stage? What are some no-nos? Why do some students not place yet still make it to finals? What's the role of costumes? How much does potential play a role vs. flawless performances? And, who is really making all the decisions? Ms. Miles Burger answers all these questions and more! About Ms. Miles-Burger Born in Burlington, Massachusetts, Dierdre Miles Burger began her formative dance training with Margaret Prishwalko Fallon and subsequently the Boston Ballet School on a Ford Foundation Scholarship. Ms. Miles Burger became an apprentice with Boston Ballet at age fourteen and joined the Corps de Ballet in 1974. From 1978 until 1982 Miles Burger danced in New York City and with Houston Ballet before returning to Boston Ballet in 1983. During her career she danced countless principal roles in the classical and contemporary ballet repertory but was most known for her portrayal of Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, and the Principal Stomper in Twyla Tharp's Brief Fling. In June of 1993 Miles Burger retired from performing and joined Boston Ballet's Artistic Staff. In September 2002 Miles Burger was appointed Principal of Boston Ballet School. In the summer of 2006 she left Boston Ballet to move to Florida with her husband, where she continued to teach and coach on a freelance basis. In addition she has served on the jury for a number of ballet conventions and competitions including Youth America Grand Prix regional semi-finals and New York City Finals. In July 2010 she was appointed Director of Orlando Ballet School, serving there for eight years until August 2018. Under her leadership Orlando Ballet School grew and developed programming, most notably the Orlando Ballet School Academy, which develops young dancers for professional careers. Reaching out to the community she instituted several programs for children with special needs including Adaptive Dance for students with Down Syndrome, Come Dance With Us for children with physical challenges and Kids Beating Cancer for children recovering from cancer. In 2019 Miles Burger assumed the position of Assistant Education Director for the Sarasota Ballet and continues as an examiner for the ABT National Training Curriculum.
- BH
Sep 13, 2023 · 19 minThe Art Of Training Boys In Ballet With Peter Stark
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Peter Stark, President and Director of The Rock School For Dance Education, has long been known as the Pied Piper of boys ballet training. Join us as we get his expert insights on how he effectively recruits, trains and sends male ballet students off into the professional world.
- BH
Sep 9, 2023 · 24 minBallet Mastery: Training for Competition Excellence
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Join us as Mark Carlson and Sandra Kerr, both former professional dancers and the co-owners of International Ballet School in Denver, CO, share their combined decades of experience in guiding young dancers toward success in both ballet competitions and professional careers. We discuss their unique approaches to teaching, performance, and mental preparation. From the rehearsal studio to the competition stage, this episode delves into the heart of what it takes to master this art form. Mark and Sandra recount stories of students who have thrived under their guidance, and provide firsthand accounts of the challenges of ballet training and the competition world. Website: https://internationalballetschool.net/
- BH
Sep 6, 2023 · 20 minBallet Cross Training Series Recap: Building Resilience And Bouncing Back
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Welcome to the Ballet Help Desk Cross Training Series Recap! In this series, we've delved deep into the world of ballet cross training, uncovering the secrets to building resilience and bouncing back stronger than ever before. Hosted by Jenny Huang and Brett Gardner, two parents of advanced level ballet dancers, this podcast recaps the invaluable insights, tips, and stories shared by our incredible guests throughout the series. Whether you're a seasoned ballet parent, a fitness enthusiast, or simply curious about the transformative power of ballet cross training, this recap is your gateway to a world of knowledge and inspiration. Join us as we revisit the highlights of each episode, exploring how ballet cross training can help prevent injuries, accelerate recovery, and enhance performance. From expert interviews to personal anecdotes, we'll distill the key takeaways and practical advice you need to incorporate these strategies into your dancer's fitness journey. Website: www.ballethelpdesk.com Facebook: facebook.com/BalletHelpDesk Instagram: @ballethelpdesk
- BH
Sep 1, 2023 · 39 minThe Benefits of Ballet Competition Featuring Ilya Kozadayev
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk In this episode, we sit down with, Ilya Kozadayev, Associate Professor of Ballet at University of North Carolina School of the Arts, to explore the myriad benefits of participating in ballet competitions. Ballet competitions have long been a stage where aspiring dancers showcase their artistry, technique, and dedication. Mr. Kozadayev brings his extensive experience and unique insights to the forefront, shedding light on how these competitions can shape and elevate a dancer's journey. Join us as he uncovers the hidden gems that competitions offer, from the invaluable performance experience to the opportunities for artistic growth and self-discovery. Kozadayev shares his personal anecdotes, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of ballet competitions. If you like what you heard, please be sure to leave us a review! Learn more about parenting a serious ballet dancer at www.ballethelpdesk.com University of North Carolina School of the Arts Dance: https://www.uncsa.edu/dance/index.aspx
- BH
Aug 30, 2023 · 57 minFrom Studio To Stage: Ballet Competition Readiness
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Step behind the curtain and into the world of ballet competitions with Katya and Arkadiy Orohovsky, two esteemed ballet coaches and mentors. In "From Studio To Stage," the first in our series on ballet competitions, we delve into the meticulous art of preparing ballet dancers to compete. We also learn how parents can best support their dancers and how competitions fit into the overall training mix. Both former professional dancers with a wealth of experience, Katya and Arkadiy understand the dedication, discipline, and artistry required to excel in the highly competitive ballet arena. Join us as we learn about their training methods, tailored to nurture both technical and artistic expression. From refining pointe work to perfecting pirouettes, Katya and Arkadiy leave no arabesque unturned in their quest to prepare their students for success. Whether you're a ballet parent, student of the art, or simply curious about the world of ballet competitions, this episode offers an inside look into the dedication, and artistic vision that propel young dancers to transcend their limits. And, be sure to let us know what you think by leaving a review! Ballet Help Desk Website: www.ballethelpdesk.com Facebook: Facebook.com/BalletHelpDesk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk South Mississippi Ballet Theater: www.southmsballet.org Costume Resources: www.protutustudio.com, https://www.conservatorybyprimadonna.com/
- BH
Aug 19, 2023 · 33 minTalking With Samantha Daly, Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis Teacher For Ballet Dancers
Listen to Ballet Help Desk ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk had the pleasure of talking with Samantha Daly, a Gyrotonic and GYROKINESIS®️ teacher based in the Bay Area. Better known as Spiraling Sam, she works with professional dancers, dance students and non-dancers alike. Join us to hear how she works with dancers on injury prevention measures as well as how she works as part of an injury recovery team. Follow her on Instagram at spiralingsam Please visit her website for more information about virtual classes at www.spiralingsam.com