Conversations on Dance

This episode was recorded live from the Vail Dance Festival on August 9th, 2026.Enjoy one month of Conversations on Dance on Patreon for free! Redeem here. In the final episode of our Vail Dance Festival series, Michael Sean Breeden is joined by guest co-host Kate Penner for a rare conversation with the festival's pianists: Michael Scales, Derek Wang, Tony Yun, Joel Wenhardt. Together they pull back the curtain on what most audiences never see: the musicians who make dance possible. They talk about how each of them found music in the first place, what it's actually like to collaborate with choreographers and dancers in the room, the tiny details that can make or break a piece, and some of their favorite moments from years of playing at Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of Conversations on Dance on Patreon for free! Redeem here. This episode was recorded live from the Vail Dance Festival on August 9th, 2026.In this early-morning session from the final day of the festival, Michael Sean Breeden is joined by guest co-host Kate Penner (Rebecca had already headed home for her son's first day of school) for a conversation with four dancers who represent very different paths into the profession: Savannah Green (BalletX), Kayla Mak (ABT), Brooks Landegger (ABT), and Philip Duclos (Royal Danish Ballet). They talk about how differently each of their careers began, the moment each of them was "thrown in the deep end" at Vail, how they mentally and physically prepare for a performance, and what it's like bringing what they learn at the festival back to their home companies.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch NOW: PREMIERES from the 2026 Vail Dance Festival here: https://www.youtube.com/live/IWR7IJTIUjM?si=Hew1Dst2yyijlh9k.Enjoy one month of Conversations on Dance on Patreon for free! Redeem here. Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a live podcast recording exploring the special and unique process of preparing today’s generation of dancers for the world stages. In this special conversation, four of today’s passionate leading dance educators gather to discuss how they cultivate tomorrow’s stars and what it means to pass artistry from one generation to the next.The panel includes Nikolaj Hubbe, former Artistic Director of the Royal Danish Ballet and former New York City Ballet principal; Margaret Tracey, Artistic Director of Canada’s National Ballet School and former New York City Ballet principal; Carla Korbes, former Pacific Northwest Ballet principal and now ballet chair at Juilliard; and Melissa Toogood, Bessie Award-winning dancer and Dean of Juilliard’s Dance Division. Together, they bring decades of combined artistic and teaching experience to a conversation about craft, education, and a love of dance.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem. Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a live podcast recording with this summer’s Artist-in-Residence, Alexei Ratmansky. Ratmansky is widely regarded as one of the most important ballet choreographers of his generation, creating celebrated works for companies around the world and currently serves as Artist-in-Residence at New York City Ballet. This summer he brings that singular creative force to Vail, where he will create new work as part of the 2026 festival.Hear Ratmansky reflect on his creative process, his vision for new work, and what it means to bring his artistry to the mountains of Colorado during Artistic Director Damian Woetzel’s landmark 20th year at the helm.Stay tuned for more episodes coming from the Vail Dance Festival 2026.Conversations on Dance at the Vail Dance Festival is generously underwritten by The Town of Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem. Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a live podcast recording with one of ballet’s most exciting rising stars: Ryan Tomash, newly promoted Principal Dancer at New York City Ballet.Born in Toronto and trained at Canada’s National Ballet School, Tomash spent eight formative years with the Royal Danish Ballet before joining NYCB for the 2025-26 season. Tomash made his American debut right here at the Vail Dance Festival in 2025. Hear him reflect on that journey, from Copenhagen to New York, and back to Vail, and what’s ahead.Stay tuned for more episodes coming from the Vail Dance Festival 2026.Conversations on Dance at the Vail Dance Festival is generously underwritten by The Town of Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem. Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a special live podcast recording celebrating a remarkable milestone: the 10th year of Pulitzer Prize and Grammy Award-winning composer and performer Caroline Shaw as the festival’s Leonard Bernstein Composer-in-Residence.Shaw, the youngest-ever winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Music, has been a defining creative voice at Vail for a decade: composing and collaborating across genres, disciplines, and artists in ways that have transformed what’s possible on a summer stage. In this conversation, she reflects on ten years of pushing music and dance into new territory, what keeps drawing her back to the mountains of Colorado, and what is next for her.Stay tuned for more episodes coming from the Vail Dance Festival 2026.Conversations on Dance at the Vail Dance Festival is generously underwritten by The Town of Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem. Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a live podcast recording with Three of Vail’s most beloved returning artists: Lauren Lovette, Unity Phelan and Robbie Fairchild.Fairchild, a former NYCB Principal Dancer, became a Tony-nominated Broadway star originating the role of Jerry Mulligan in An American in Paris before going on to film, acting, and an ever-evolving performance life. Lovette, also a former NYCB principal, continues to grace the stage and is currently serving as Resident Choreographer of the Paul Taylor Dance Company and earning commissions from ABT, Vail, and beyond. Unity Phelan continues her extraordinary career as a principal dancer with New York City Ballet and international guest artist!Stay tuned for more episodes coming from the Vail Dance Festival 2026.Conversations on Dance at the Vail Dance Festival is generously underwritten by The Town of Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem. Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a live podcast recording with tap visionary and MacArthur “Genius Grant” recipient Michelle Dorrance and artists from Trinity Irish Dance Company, the Chicago-based ensemble that has spent 35 years pioneering a genre-defying fusion of Irish step dance, tap, and contemporary movement.Dorrance and Trinity share a deep creative history, with Dorrance having choreographed multiple works for the company that push the boundaries of what percussive dance can be. Hear how this extraordinary collaboration was born, what it’s like to work across two distinct movement traditions, and what Dorrance is creating this summer at Vail.Stay tuned for more episodes coming from the Vail Dance Festival 2026.Conversations on Dance at the Vail Dance Festival is generously underwritten by The Town of Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem.Today we are live from Vail with one of the Vail Dance Festival’s most beloved returning artists, ABT Principal Dancer Herman Cornejo. Called “the most technically accomplished male ballet dancer in the United States” by The New Yorker, Cornejo has spent more than 15 summers on the Vail stage, becoming a touchstone of the festival experience for audiences and artists alike. The Argentine-born virtuoso joined American Ballet Theatre in 1999 and has since accumulated an extraordinary list of accolades. He is also the founder of the American Dancers Off-Road (ADOR) initiative and Director of Repertoire at ABT. In this conversation, he looks back at his history with the festival and forward to what’s next.Stay tuned for eight more episodes coming from the Vail Dance Festival 2026.Conversations on Dance at the Vail Dance Festival is generously underwritten by The Town of Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem.Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a live podcast recording featuring Lloyd Knight and Laurel Dalley Smith from the Martha Graham Dance Company, one of the most iconic and enduring forces in American modern dance. As the company marks its centennial, hear directly from these incredible artists bringing Graham's visionary legacy to the Vail stage and shaping what it means today.This marks our 500th episode and our 10th year at the Vail Dance Festival. Stay tuned for nine more episodes coming from the Vail Dance Festival 2026.Conversations on Dance at the Vail Dance Festival is generously underwritten by The Town of Vail.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem.Tickets are on sale now for our live events at the 2026 Vail Dance Festival. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here: https://vaildance.org/conversations-on-dance/Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy one month of free access to Conversations on Dance on Patreon and listen ad-free. Click here to redeem.Today on the Conversations on Dance podcast we are joined by Jack Fever to discuss their curation of "Martha Graham: The Mother of Psychological Dance" on display now at the New York Public Library. Jack joins us again after about 10 years to share recent work and their move to full-time position as a member of the faculty at Bard College. Jack traces their lifelong relationship to Graham technique, beginning at 13 in rural Wisconsin and continuing through training in New York. Jack details developing this centennial exhibition using only Jerome Robbins Dance Division materials, focusing on psychology, trauma, and embodiment, and highlights their unique discoveries along the way.Don't miss "Martha Graham: The Mother of Psychological Dance" on display now at The New York Public Library through November 7th, 2026. More information: https://www.nypl.org/events/exhibitions/martha-graham-mother-psychological-danceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceToday on the Conversations on Dance podcast we are joined by Paul Boos, Repetiteur and former Balanchine dancer. Paul recounts growing up in South Dakota, being enrolled in ballet with his sisters, then eventually continuing his training at American Ballet Theatre, where he received a full scholarship to study and live in New York. He describes early exposure to ABT stars, joining New York City Ballet, informative encounters with Balanchine and Robbins during his time in the company. After leaving New York City Ballet, He began staging Balanchine works and later became director of the Balanchine Foundation Video Archives, which documents role originators coaching and being interviewed.  Book: In Balanchine's Steps: https://amzn.to/4vxm9IgApply to view Balanchine Foundation videos: https://balanchine.org/video-archives/interpreters-archive-archive-of-lost-choreography/Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceOn today's episode of Conversations On Dance we are joined by Padraic Moyles, Executive Producer and Director of 'Riverdance 30 - The New Generation'. Padraic tells us about his own journey as a performer in the early days of the Riverdance phenomenon, how the show has evolved in its 30 year history, and the incredible method they use to both spread the physical burden and keep the dancers from burning out during their grueling tours. Riverdance will be at Performing Arts Houston from June 19th through the 21st. Tickets are available on performingartshouston.org. Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceToday on the Conversations on Dance podcast we are joined by Ariel Rose, choreographer and former soloist with Miami City Ballet. Ariel traces his path from Ballet Academy East to Boston Ballet and Richmond Ballet, ultimately landing at Miami City Ballet. He talks with us about how early exposure to live music, performing opportunities, and diverse choreographic processes shaped him. Rose talks about his choreographic journey including his work with Miami City Ballet and the New World Symphony, his approach to music selection, and details his new project Ballet Rose: Made in Miami. Don't miss Ballet Rose: Made in Miami, one night only on June 13 at the Florence Gould Theatre in New York City. Tickets and more details are available here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/lalliancenewyork/2032602. Learn more on Ariel's website: https://www.balletrose.com/Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceToday on the Conversations on Dance podcast we are joined by Alexandra Damiani, Artistic Director of Ballets Jazz Montréal. Alexandra traces her path from early training in France, then heading to New York, where she found healing, new technique, and artistic freedom. She recounts her wide-performing career, and the shift to rehearsal direction and leadership. She discusses moving from New York to Montreal during COVID, balancing motherhood with leadership, strengthening Ballet Jazz Montreal's roots locally while touring, and previews BJM’s tour to Houston with Performing Arts Houston. If you are in the Houston area, see Ballets Jazz Montréal in "Dance Me: The Music of Leonard Cohen" June 12 and 13th. Tickets start at $29. More information at performingartshouston.org.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceOn today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Amy Watson, Artistic Director of the Royal Danish Ballet. Amy relays her experience as an American born dancer adjusting to the Bournonville style in her first years with the company, before she landed major opportunities leading to her promotion to principal. Amy also opens up about her many plans for the company since securing the role of Artistic Director, including the immense care she is putting into the Bournonville legacy, building new repertoire of the company and providing the dancers with myriad opportunities to explore all avenues of styles and choreography. If you are in the Copenhagen area, you can catch Akram Khan's "Lady Macbeth" until May 19th, and the final program of the season "Giant Steps" featuring the works of George Balanchine and Christopher Wheeldon from May 21st until June 6th. Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceOn today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Lucas Labrador and Louis DeFelice, co-founders of Barre Trash, the dancewear line everyone from professionals to students to parents is sporting. They tell us how they first met, what inspired them to become business partners, and how they keep Barre Trash humming along through the competition and many distractions of the dance world today. Shop Barre Trash here: https://barretrash.com/.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Eduardo Vilaro, Artistic Director & CEO of Ballet Hispánico New York. Eduardo makes his fourth appearance on the show, running through a broad range of topics, from how the political climate is directly impacting his arts organization to viral celebrity comments on the arts. He dives into the programming for the company's upcoming City Center season, titled "Mujeres: Women in Motion" featuring varied, dynamic choreographic works from four latina women. Ballet Hispánico New York's City Center season runs from April 23rd through the 26th, and tickets can be purchased at nycitycenter.org. Come see us this weekend in NYC! On Sunday April 19th, join us as we host Works & Process at the Guggenheim in NYC, featuring the talents of the Philadelphia Ballet and choreographer Juliano Nunes. We will be talking to Juliano about the process of creating a brand new full length "Romeo & Juliet" for the company, set to premiere in Philadelphia on April 30th. Tickets for Works & Process are nearly sold out, but you can catch the last few available on worksandprocess.org. Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by acclaimed choreographer Akram Khan, weeks before his brand new full length production "Lady Macbeth" premieres at the Royal Danish Ballet. He tells us how the dancers of the company have immersed themselves through months of singular focus, how the work's plot has evolved since its inception, and how much his own dance language has fused with classical ballet vernacular to create the world of this ballet. "Lady Macbeth" runs April 24th through June 4th at the opera house mainstage in Copenhagen.  Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceOn today's episode of "Conversations On Dance" we are joined by Royal Danish Ballet soloist Tobias Praetorius. He takes us on his journey as a young student falling in love with the theater, ultimately rising to the rank of soloist in the company, while coming to embrace and explore the company's rich Bournonville history. Tobi's own choreographic talents and love of Bournonville will converge when he will choreograph the lost second act of Bournonville's "Napoli" in an upcoming Royal Danish Ballet staging. Until then, you can catch him in regular performances with the company.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceOn Conversations on Dance, we welcome Maria Calegari and Bart Cook to revisit a March Madness-style bracket of George Balanchine ballets created by Indiana University students during COVID, using head-versus-heart choices to spark memories and discussion about dancing and staging the repertory. As we debate matchups, Maria and Bart reflect on musicality, design collaborations, costuming, performance traditions, coaching details, and more. The bracket ultimately yields different winners among the four of us.Follow along with a bracket of your own. Click here to view and download.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceToday, on "Conversations on Dance", we talk with Ken Browar and Deborah Ory, the minds (and cameras) behind NYC Dance Project. We talk with Ken and Deborah about their book, Martha Graham Dance Company, 100 years, and how their backgrounds in dance and editorial fashion shaped their approach. They explain how early dancer sessions evolved into a slow, highly collaborative process focused on a few images that suggest continuing movement rather than freezing it. For the Graham centennial, they installed a studio setup at the company for three years, photographed 25 works from largely current repertory, combined studio and location shoots, used historical research and images as references. The resulting book, Martha Graham Dance Company, 100 Years" is available for purchase here.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:24 Deborah Dance to Camera02:28 Ken Fashion Roots03:55 First Dancers and Launch05:50 Instagram and Early Growth06:18 Fashion Meets Dance Craft08:48 Shooting Movement Not Freeze10:41 Slow Shoots and Safe Space14:04 Dancer Perfection and Control15:21 Graham Company Shift17:17 Why the Centennial Book18:31 Building the Studio Setup19:30 Building the Book Archive19:46 Choosing 25 Iconic Works21:15 Studio Shoots and Coaching22:05 Editing and Page Sequencing23:07 Outdoor Locations Strategy24:15 Researching Graham Repertory25:52 No Reshoots and Costume Logistics26:26 Group Shots and Precision28:45 Costumes and Fabric Movement31:47 Where to Buy and Signed Copies33:10 Future Projects and FarewellConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceToday on the Conversations on Dance podcast, we talk with former New York City Ballet dancer and Balanchine répétiteur Deborah Wingert about her early training at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, where rigorous daily classes, musical and artistic context, and early teaching responsibilities shaped her discipline and curiosity. Wingert recounts being accepted to the School of American Ballet, performing key workshop roles, and joining NYCB at 16, including formative experiences and personal coaching from George Balanchine before his death in 1983. She describes thriving as a detail-oriented “sponge,” navigating later casting and body-image pressures, and building a wide repertory across Balanchine and Robbins works. After leaving NYCB, she began teaching privately and at multiple New York schools, then expanded into staging Balanchine works around the world.00:00 Meet The Hosts00:11 Debra Wingert Overview01:35 First Ballet Spark04:16 CPYB Magic And Context06:31 Rigor And Early Teaching14:24 SAB Audition And Move16:50 Workshop Breakthrough Roles18:57 Joining NYCB At Sixteen25:10 Balanchine Coaching Moments27:21 Life After Balanchine28:19 Other SAB Teachers33:22 Body Image And Confidence35:09 Backstage Ballet Devotion35:34 Staying in the Company36:39 Outside Projects and Robbins38:07 Leaving NYCB and Starting to Teach40:55 Outreach and Repertory Staging43:10 Learning to Stage New Works45:33 Musicality and Version Options51:18 Keeping Patterns and Details Alive55:56 Dream Ballets and Future Stagings01:04:06 Closing Thanks and SignoffConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stanton Welch and Julie Kent join the Conversations on Dance podcast this week and reflect on nearly three years leading Houston Ballet, praising the dancers’ versatility, focus, and the engaged Houston community, and describing the value of sharing leadership. They discuss how the company’s identity is shaped by having a prolific choreographer as artistic director in Stanton and what they look for in dancers. Looking ahead, they highlight a variety of works still to come this season including Welch’s new 12-minute piece to Mason Bates featuring electronics and live percussion, and they outline how Welch’s Giselle differs musically and dramatically, with expanded characters and staging, while Kent coaches intention and relationships.For more information on performances still to come this season, visit houstonballet.org.Houston Ballet 25/27 Season announced here: https://www.houstonballet.org/seasontickets/2026-2027-season-announced/Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceTIMESTAMPS:00:00 Welcome Back Catch Up02:14 Partnership Leading Together03:01 Studio Time And Support04:21 Choreographic Hub Culture07:54 Auditions Finding Versatility13:35 Season Variety Story Ballets18:44 Programming And Identity21:39 New Work Alice Topp25:43 Staging Hazards and Effects25:57 Avatar as Ballet Pitch26:22 More Dancers on Stage27:17 New Work Mason Bates29:08 Reimagining Giselle31:32 Coaching Story Over Steps34:39 Technique vs Artistry Debate38:12 Season Highlights Dances39:50 Rehearsal Timing and Stamina41:21 Next Season Tease and FarewellConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance" we are joined by dance writer Marina Harss. Marina tells us about her recent excursions to Vienna and Copenhagen, where she traveled to document some of the most exciting new dynamics in European dance companies, including a renewed focus on Copenhagen's genius choreographer Bournonville, new directors in the Royal Danish Ballet and the Vienna State Ballet, and buzzy new Ratmansky productions in both companies. Marina wrote on these experiences in the New York Times and the New York Review Of Books. Both articles are available online today. Alexei Ratmansky’s Leap of Faith - By Marina Harss for The New York ReviewFor Royal Danish Ballet, It’s Back to Bournonville - By Marina Harss for the New York TimesAt City Ballet, Alexei Ratmansky’s Morality Tale Is Wrapped in Farce - By Marina Harss for the New York TimesGet Marina's book on Ratmansky: The Boy from Kyiv: Alexei Ratmansky's Life in BalletSneak Peek of Ratmansky's newest work for Miami City Ballet, mentioned in this episode.Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance" we are joined by choreographer Robert Battle. Robert tells us about how he started a company to push his own choreographic work, what it was like to become the third director in the history of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and how he's just begun to explore his recent post as resident choreographer of Paul Taylor Dance Company. To see Robert's latest work for Paul Taylor on tour visit paultaylordance.org/performances.Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WATCH the program on YouTube here.On February 7, 2026, Miami City Ballet presented a first look of world-renowned choreographer Alexei Ratmansky’s new commission celebrating MCB founder Toby Lerner Ansin’s 85th birthday, before its February premiere in Florida. This work blends history, tradition, and forward-thinking creativity, with a score by Johann Strauss. Ratmansky and Miami City Ballet’s new artistic director Gonzalo Garcia will participate in the discussion, and MCB dancers perform excerpts.Miami City Ballet's 'Into The Magic City' program runs February 20th - March 1 in Miami and West Palm Beach. The program includes the World Premiere of 'Roses from the South, Three Waltzes for Toby' as discussed here, as well as George Balanchine's 'Serenade' and 'Tarantella'. Tickets available here.Works & Process at the Guggenheim is a non-profit organization dedicated to championing the creative process from studio to stage, with programs just like this one. Find more information and ways to support on their website: https://www.worksandprocess.org/.Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance" we are joined by two leaders of the School Of American Ballet, Jenifer Ringer, Director Of Intermediate/Advanced Divisions and Artistic Programming, and Aesha Ash, Head Of Artistic Health and Wellness. They tell us about their own experiences as students at the school before heading onto illustrious careers at the New York City Ballet, what goes into planning the curriculum and various programs the school offers, and most excitingly, how the recently opened wellness center is impacting the day to training and student experience at SAB. For more information on all things SAB, visit sab.org. Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on "Conversations On Dance", our episode centers on the new documentary film "About Face: Disrupting Ballet", which follows two asian dancers, Phil Chan and Georgina Pazcougin, in their effort to eliminate racial stereotypes pervasive in ballet performances across the world. Director/Producer Jennifer Lin and Producer Cory Stieg join us to talk about their personal experiences with racial caricatures in dance, how their initial introduction to Phil and Gina led to the idea for the film, and the work they do and the film itself will be a catalyst for change in the dance world. "About Face" will be the spotlight feature of the closing night of the Dance On Camera Festival, this February 8th at Symphony Space in New York City. Follow updates on the film on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aboutface_film/Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceSPONSOR:Get audition ready with The Royal Ballet School’s new bundle of online audition classes. Whether you are auditioning for entry into The Royal Ballet School or seeking insights into general audition preparation to conquer those nerves, this brand-new series of online classes is the perfect tool for you. From artistic expression and musicality to improving your strength and flexibility, these classes will help you feel confident for whenever and wherever you audition. To get started go to ondemand.royalballetschool.org.uk Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance" we are joined by American Ballet Theatre ballerina Zimmi Coker. Zimmi recounts how, as a former dance herself, her mother gently guided her through her initial training, how she fell in love with ABT and began to receive plum roles in major full length works, and, most harrowingly, how she overcame a devastating injury that had her pulling out of performances and in searing pain for more than a year and a half. Zimmi will be performing featured roles in ABT's upcoming seasons at the Koch Theater and the MET in New York City; follow her on instagram at @zimmi9 for further updates on her casting. Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceOn today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Kari Brunson Wright, Josh Spell and Rachel Coats, founders of the ILUMN Collective and former professional dancers turned therapists and coaches. We talk the various mental health challenges they faced as dancers, how they came together to create a program to offer people of all stripes in the dance world a way to overcome those hurdles and the specifics of some of the methods they are now offering at ILUMN. The sessions offered at ILUMN are customized towards all kinds of people in the dancer world: not only students and professional dancers, but former dancers, teachers, directors and rehearsal directors. To set up your first ILUMN session, visit www.theilumncollective.com or download the app for short, powerful audio sessions you can access at any time. Download the app: https://apps.apple.com/ph/app/ilumn/id6751722723Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today it's just Michael and Rebecca for our annual look back over the year. Enjoy! Happy Holidays and Happy New Year everyone! We will be back with a new episode on January 7th, 2026.Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceMiami City Ballet Nutcracker running through 12/28: https://www.miamicityballet.org/tickets-and-events/202526-season/nutcracker/#e214Miami City Ballet world premiere by Alexei Ratmansky: https://www.miamicityballet.org/tickets-and-events/202526-season/winter/Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we dive into the new documentary "The Nutcracker At Wethersfield", a film that explores the chaotic, thrilling experience of a huge team of dancers, artists and volunteers coming together to ensure that the "Nutcracker" holiday tradition could continue during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are joined by the choreographer Troy Schumacher and ballerina Ashley Laracey, the Sugar Plum Fairy in this production, both veteran NYCB soloists who had not had a year without Nutcracker in their lives for more than two decades. They take us through the numerous complications to consider while mounting the production, from legal constraints, health concerns and the logistics of building a massive production in just five weeks, and how this experience ultimately came to be a documentary that perfectly encapsulates a moment unlike any of us shall ever experience again in our lives. "The Nutcracker At Wethersfield" will be available to stream on demand from December 21st through January 5th through the website nutcrackerfilm.com.  Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of Conversations On Dance, we are joined by author Elizabeth Kendall. Elizabeth has written numerous books on dance, her most recent, "Balanchine Finds His America: A Tale Of Love Lost And Ballet Reborn" is on shelves now. Elizabeth takes us through her journey to writing on dance, why Balanchine has become such an important figure to her as a writer, and the varied processes through which she researches, writes and edits her work. To purchase "Balanchine Finds His America", perhaps as a holiday gift or some excellent solo travel reading material, grab your copy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49QmfDa.Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceSPONSOR:Did you know you can train with The Royal Ballet School anywhere, anytime with their online library of pre-recorded classes? And this Cyber Monday, they’re offering two classes for the price of one! Explore a collection of over 50 unique classes, including ballet, contemporary, character, pilates and adult classes with this limited-time offer. Learn from the School’s expert artistic faculty and guest teachers from the comfort of your home and receive lifetime access to your purchased classes.Go to ondemand.royalballetschool.org.uk, add two or more classes to your cart and enter code CODOFFER to receive a £12 discount, equivalent to the price of one class.* But be quick, offer ends this Sunday 7 December 2025. *Excludes all bundles and new Junior Associate insight classes.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on Conversations on Dance, we welcome back a listener favorite and our friend, Alastair Macaulay, former Chief Dance Critic for the New York Times. This past week, on Friday November 14th, Alastair hosted an event at the New York Public Library where he examined films of revered Balanchine ballerina, Suzanne Farrell. Alastair tells us about how research for this event, talks about the films he showed, and other tidbits on Suzanne’s career and dancing. At the end, Alastair talks about his City Center Studio 5 event which is available to watch now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAkP-QnDpL0 Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceSPONSOR: The Royal Ballet School are bringing their diverse programme of non-selective and selective Intensive Courses for students aged 8-19 to London, Singapore, Hong Kong, and for the first time, Los Angeles next summer! Explore your love for dance in a supportive environment, as the School’s expert Artistic staff and guest coaches guide you in a variety of styles to hone your technique, artistry and musicality.   Classes include classical ballet, repertoire, contemporary, choreography, character, body conditioning, pas de deux, stagecraft and pointe work. Don’t miss your chance to train with one of the world’s leading centres for classical ballet training. Applications are now open. Head to royalballetschool.org.uk to secure your spot today.  Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on Conversations on Dance, we hear about a new documentary film about ballet and war in Ukraine, "The Sky Was On Fire." We are joined by the film's Producer Julie Meyer and EP/DP Michael Murray. Julie and Michael tell us about how this story came to them, how they built trust with the subject's of the film, why they feel these stories are important to tell, and how they hope the film will make an impact. At the end, Michael talks about an organization that is raising money for Ukraine called, Razom for Ukraine. You can find more information and make a donation at https://www.razomforukraine.org/Watch the trailer here. Adrenaline Films: https://adrenalinefilms.com/Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode was recorded live on October 19, 2025 at The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami before the opening of Miami City Ballet's 40th anniversary season. Guests in this episode are Tony Award winning choreographer and former Miami City Ballet Principal Dancer, Patricia Delgado, and Miami City Ballet Artistic Director, Gonzalo Garcia.Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode was recorded live on October 18, 2025 at The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami before the opening of Miami City Ballet's 40th anniversary season. Guests in this episode are is Tony Award winning choreographer, Justin Peck, and Miami City Ballet Artistic Director, Gonzalo Garcia. The pre-performance talk coordinated with the all Peck program that the company opened their season with, which included "Year of The Rabbit," "Chutes and Ladders," and "Heatscape." WATCH this episode on YouTube! Click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=je6FADBH-eQListen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode was recorded live on October 17, 2025 at The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami before the opening of Miami City Ballet's 40th anniversary season. This pre-performance talk coordinated with the all Peck program that the company opened their season with, which included "Year of The Rabbit," "Chutes and Ladders," and "Heatscape."Listen to Conversations on Dance ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance" we are joined by superstar NYCB ballerina Tiler Peck and Garen Scribner, former SFB soloist and the Artistic Director of the San Francisco Dance Film Festival. Tiler recounts how her harrowing recovery from a potentially life altering injury was captured on film after Garen suggested the process be turned into a documentary. The resulting project is "Tiler Peck: Suspending Time", a documentary film making its premiere at the SF Dance Film Festival this October 24th at the Lucasfilm Premier Theater. To purchase tickets, visit sfdancefilmfest.org. Get Tiler's new book: https://amzn.to/4oXookXAnnouncement:We are thrilled to announce that we will be returning to Miami City Ballet October 17th-19th to host live pre-performance talks for the opening weekend of the company’s 40th anniversary season. For each talk, we will be joined by Gonzalo Garcia as he ushers the company into its first season under his direction. Full details below. This program is truly not to be missed: the all Peck program includes ‘Year of the Rabbit’, ‘Chutes and Ladders’, and ‘Heatscape.’ If you are in the Miami area come join us.DETAILS:FRI October 17 with Gonzalo Garcia at 6:30pmSAT October 18 with Gonzalo and Justin Peck at 6:30pmSUN October 19 with Gonzalo and Patricia Delgado at 1pmAdmission to pre-performance talks at the Arsht Center is complimentary with ticket purchase. Tickets available here: https://www.miamicityballet.org/tickets-and-events/202526-season/peck/. If you are unable to join us in person, subscribe to the Conversations on Dance podcast feed through your favorite podcast app, where we will be publishing recordings of the events.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on the Conversations on Dance podcast we are thrilled to have two fabulous guests: Maria Calegari and Bart Cook. We have have both Maria and Bart on the podcast before, but this married couple danced together and now sets ballets together, so we knew we had to get them on the podcast together to hear more about their careers and their work as repetiteurs for the Balanchine Trust and for the Robbins Trust. We talk through their experiences dancing together, then some of the specific ballets that they have set together: basically it’s just an hour and a half of bunhead time. Maria & Bart are currently offering virtual and in-person private lessons for pre-professional and professional ballet dancers ages 15 and up. Lessons are structured to focus on your specific artistic goals to identify the stylistic and technical nuances that you can use to improve your movement quality, advice that goes beyond the typical class format. For more information visit: https://calegariteacher.com/.Announcement:We are thrilled to announce that we will be returning to Miami City Ballet October 17th-19th to host live pre-performance talks for the opening weekend of the company’s 40th anniversary season. For each talk, we will be joined by Gonzalo Garcia as he ushers the company into its first season under his direction. Full details below. This program is truly not to be missed: the all Peck program includes ‘Year of the Rabbit’, ‘Chutes and Ladders’, and ‘Heatscape.’ If you are in the Miami area come join us. And if you aren’t, time to look for flights! DETAILS:FRI October 17 with Gonzalo Garcia at 6:30pmSAT October 18 with Gonzalo and Justin Peck at 6:30pmSUN October 19 with Gonzalo and Patricia Delgado at 1pmAdmission to pre-performance talks at the Arsht Center is complimentary with ticket purchase. Tickets available here: https://www.miamicityballet.org/tickets-and-events/202526-season/peck/. If you are unable to join us in person, subscribe to the Conversations on Dance podcast feed through your favorite podcast app, where we will be publishing recordings of the events.SPONSOR:Friday through Sunday, November 7th through 9th, join Amanda Treiber and Company for their debut performances at the Mark O’Donnell Theater in Brooklyn! Featuring a cast of international artists, including dancers and musicians from New York City Ballet, and a world premiere to music by Philip Glass, these performances showcase NYC-based choreographer and dancer Amanda Treiber's ability to create worlds through unique movement vocabularies and her deep collaborations with dancers, musicians, and visual artists. You won't want to miss it! Reserve your tickets today at amandatreiber.com.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Dante Puleio, Artistic Director of the Limón Dance Company, and esteemed choreographer Diego Vega Solorza, whose work for the company will premiere in the company's upcoming Joyce season. Dante tells us how he became familiar with Diego's work and why it was a natural fit for the company and the season, while Diego dives into his creative process and how the Limón dancers have shaped this particular work. The Limón Dance Company will perform at the storied Joyce theater in New York City from Tuesday, October 14th through Sunday October 19th. To purchase tickets visit joyce.org. SPONSOR:Friday through Sunday, November 7th through 9th, join Amanda Treiber and Company for their debut performances at the Mark O’Donnell Theater in Brooklyn! Featuring a cast of international artists, including dancers and musicians from New York City Ballet, and a world premiere to music by Philip Glass, these performances showcase NYC-based choreographer and dancer Amanda Treiber's ability to create worlds through unique movement vocabularies and her deep collaborations with dancers, musicians, and visual artists. You won't want to miss it! Reserve your tickets today at amandatreiber.com.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Gonzalo Garcia, former principal dancer with San Francisco Ballet and the New York City Ballet, and the new artistic director of the Miami City Ballet. Gonzalo gives us an inside view on his plans to shape Miami City Ballet as only the third director in its 40 year history, including his thoughts on repertoire he wants to bring, honing his fundraising skills for the company's long term financial health and how he plans to be involved in daily coaching and teaching. Miami City Ballet's 40th anniversary season kicks off at the Arsht Center on October 17th with an all Justin Peck program. To purchase tickets, visit miamicityballet.org. SPONSOR:Chicago's Wrightwood 659 presents Joffrey + Ballet in the U.S., a large-scale exhibition celebrating the rich history of The Joffrey Ballet and the life of Robert Joffrey. Drawing from the Joffrey archive, acquired by the Jerome Robbins Dance Division in 2017 as the Library’s largest acquisition in a decade, the exhibition offers an in-depth look at the Joffrey’s contributions to ballet in the U.S. Highlights include rare film from the original performance of the groundbreaking ballet Astarte and Anna Sokolow’s Opus 65, as well as costumes, props, pointe shoes, posters, correspondence, and other ephemera from the company and Robert Joffrey’s life. On view October 3rd through Dec 20th. For more information, visit wrightwood659.orgConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by choreographers Christopher Bruce and Jacquelyn Long, whose works will be featured on the upcoming Houston Ballet program "Rock, Roll & Tutus". They take us through their creative processes, how they select and interpret music through dance and each of their long artistic relationships with Houston Ballet, with Christopher honing his work with the company for decades and Jacquelyn rising to the rank of soloist before being singled out for her choreographic talents. To purchase tickets to "Rock, Roll & Tutus", premiering September 18th and running through the 28th, visit houstonballet.org. SPONSOR: Chicago's Wrightwood 659 presents Joffrey + Ballet in the U.S., a large-scale exhibition celebrating the rich history of The Joffrey Ballet and the life of Robert Joffrey. Drawing from the Joffrey archive, acquired by the Jerome Robbins Dance Division in 2017 as the Library’s largest acquisition in a decade, the exhibition offers an in-depth look at the Joffrey’s contributions to ballet in the U.S. Highlights include rare film from the original performance of the groundbreaking ballet Astarte and Anna Sokolow’s Opus 65, as well as costumes, props, pointe shoes, posters, correspondence, and other ephemera from the company and Robert Joffrey’s life. On view October 3rd through Dec 20th. For more information, visit wrightwood659.orgConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Conversations on Dance, it's just Michael and Rebecca. We catch up on what we have been up to since Vail Dance Festival in August. Michael talks about working as a rehearsal director for James Whiteside in Mexico, and staging Justin Peck's 'Heatscape' at New York City Ballet this Fall.SPONSOR:San Francisco-based choreographer Alyssa Mitchel presents the premiere of Endure, a multimedia dance production taking place at Dance Mission Theater on October 3rd, 4th and 5th. The piece features six dancers, the graphic art and animations of designer Zach Litoff and recorded interviews with six marathon runners. This new work celebrates running while paying tribute to the enduring human spirit, with the intention of empowering audience members to persevere through difficult challenges. Tickets are on sale now at dancemissiontheater.org. You can follow Alyssa Mitchel on Instagram at @alymitchel or visit alyssaevemitchel.com for more information.Conversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on Conversations on Dance we are joined by Dominika Afanasenkov from the Vail Dance Festival. Dominika is a ballerina with the New York City Ballet. She talks to us about how growing up in cities all over the world impacted her training, how she’s approached the breakthrough opportunities she’s received so far, and what her first experience at the Vail Dance Festival was like. This episode is brought to you by Discover Vail and was recorded at the 2025 Vail Dance Festival.LINKS:Website: conversationsondancepod.comInstagram: @conversationsondanceMerch: https://bit.ly/cod-merchYouTube: https://bit.ly/youtube-CODJoin our email list: https://bit.ly/COD-emailConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Nikolaj Hübbe, star dancer of the New York City Ballet, and both former principal and artistic director of the Royal Danish Ballet. Nikolaj takes us through his story, from his starry eyed fascination as a child with the productions in Denmark, his meteoric rise to principal and subsequent leap of faith joining the New York City Ballet, and his years as leader of the Royal Danish Ballet. He also shares his experiences in his first year as a coach at the Vail Dance Festival, highlighting what it is that makes the artistic process in Vail so special. This episode is brought to you by Discover Vail and was recorded at the 2025 Vail Dance Festival.LINKS:Website: conversationsondancepod.comInstagram: @conversationsondanceMerch: https://bit.ly/cod-merchYouTube: https://bit.ly/youtube-CODJoin our email list: https://bit.ly/COD-emailConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of "Conversations On Dance", we are joined by Michèle Steinwald, guest curator of the 2025 Kaatsbaan Annual Festival. Michèle takes us through their artistic beginnings, as a teenager shaped by experiences as diverse as being in a punk rock band, posing in a meat dress for an installation or simply buying a at ticket to performances at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, to where they are now, shaping artistic experiences and interactions with communities that are everywhere from the gorgeous surroundings of Kaatsbaan to a neighborhood bar. If you are in the Hudson Valley area of New York state, or would like to make the trip to see this year's dynamic and artistically varied lineup at the festival, as curated by Michèle, please visit kaatsbaan.org.Festival schedule & Ticketing: https://kaatsbaan.org/performances-festivalsLINKS:Website: conversationsondancepod.comInstagram: @conversationsondanceMerch: https://bit.ly/cod-merchYouTube: https://bit.ly/youtube-CODJoin our email list: https://bit.ly/COD-emailConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden for a live podcast recording with New York City Ballet’s exciting new generation of principal dancers: Chun Wai Chan, Mira Nadon, and Gilbert Bolden III. These dynamic artists are shaping the future of classical ballet with their exceptional talent, artistry, and fresh perspectives. Hear about their paths to principal status, experiences dancing with NYCB, and their aspirations both on and off the stage. This episode is brought to you by Discover Vail and was recorded live from the Vail Dance Festival on August 3, 2025.LINKS:Website: conversationsondancepod.comInstagram: @conversationsondanceMerch: https://bit.ly/cod-merchYouTube: https://bit.ly/youtube-CODJoin our email list: https://bit.ly/COD-emailConversations on Dance was the recipient of the 2024 Clive Barnes Award for Journalism and Media Achievement.Access bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/conversationsondanceWebsite: conversationsondancepod.comJoin our email list: https://conversations-on-dance.kit.com/7f73880f5bInstagram: instagram.com/conversationsondance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.