Ballet Help Desk - podcast cover

Ballet Help Desk

Jenny Huang and Brett Gardnerwww.ballethelpdesk.com
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.
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Episodes

Ballet Audition Photos And Videos: A Definitive Guide

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/

Nov 17, 202342 minSeason 1Ep. 32

What Boys Should Look For In Ballet Summer Intensives

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

Nov 15, 20231 hr 30 minSeason 1Ep. 31

The Audition Blueprint: Advice From Robert Fulton, Co-Founder of Ballet Scout

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 !...

Nov 08, 20231 hr 8 minSeason 1Ep. 30

Plié & Slay! A Guide To Researching & Scheduling Ballet Summer Intensive Auditions

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...

Nov 07, 202335 minSeason 1Ep. 29

It's Kickoff Time For Our Summer Intensive Boot Camp!

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.

Nov 01, 202338 minSeason 1Ep. 28

Francis Veyette: What The Heck Does Potential, Facility and Body Type REALLY Mean?

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.

Oct 25, 20231 hr 11 minSeason 1Ep. 27

The YAGP Effect: A Chat With YAGP's Hailey Kolker And Sergey Gordeev

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...

Oct 18, 20231 hr 16 minSeason 1Ep. 26

Insights from Peter Merz, Regional Tour Director of ADC IBC

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 ...

Oct 13, 20231 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 25

Vasile Petritiu Unplugged: Founder of World Ballet Competition

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!

Oct 11, 20231 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 24

Jenifer Ringer And James Fayette on Judging Ballet Competitions

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!

Oct 04, 20231 hr 14 minSeason 1Ep. 23

Boys In Ballet: A Definitive Discussion With ABT Dancer, Patrick Frenette

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://boysballets...

Sep 28, 20231 hr 21 minSeason 1Ep. 22

The Art Of Training Boys In Ballet With Peter Stark

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.

Sep 28, 202319 minSeason 1Ep. 21

On Pointe: In the Judge's Chair with Deirdre Miles-Burger

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 ...

Sep 27, 20231 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 20

🩰 Peter Stark: What's The Point Of Ballet Competitions 🩰

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...

Sep 22, 202320 minSeason 1Ep. 19

The Benefits of Ballet Competition Featuring Ilya Kozadayev

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...

Sep 20, 202339 minSeason 1Ep. 18

Ballet Mastery: Training for Competition Excellence

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 Sa...

Sep 15, 202325 minSeason 1Ep. 17

From Studio To Stage: Ballet Competition Readiness

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 ded...

Sep 13, 202357 minSeason 1Ep. 16

Ballet Cross Training Series Recap: Building Resilience And Bouncing Back

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 si...

Sep 06, 202321 minSeason 1Ep. 15

How Ballet Students Can Maintain Emotional Health While Injured

Dancers focus on cross-training as part of their overall ballet training regimen. But, often, they forget how much mental cross-training they need to do to maintain their emotional health. Elizabeth Sullivan, a ballet wellness coach, joins us to discuss how dancers can maintain their emotional health while dealing with the pressures of high level ballet training, especially when coming back from an injury. Elizabeth also spends some time discussing what she would like to see change with ballet s...

Aug 30, 20231 hr 14 minSeason 1Ep. 14

Talking With Samantha Daly, Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis Teacher For Ballet Dancers

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...

Aug 23, 202334 minSeason 1Ep. 13

Sue McCarroll, Pilates Instructor For The Rock School For Dance Education

This week, Ballet Help Desk chats with Sue McCarroll, the lead Pilates instructor for The Rock School For Dance Education. She provides advice on how Pilates can fit into a dancer's training regimen. Sue discusses not only how the practice can help with injury prevention but also with actual dance performance. Instagram: opal_wellness_studio Website: https://www.opalwellnessstudio.com/link-list Podcast: well2you https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/well2you-podcast/id1547156150...

Aug 16, 202355 minSeason 1Ep. 12

A Conversation With Aki Kawasaki, Head Strength Coach At Houston Ballet

Cross-training. What does it mean, should my dancer be doing it and how soon should they start? Tune in to hear advice from Aki Kawasaki, Head Strength Coach at Houston Ballet and Houston Ballet Academy. Aki provides advice not only on how to build physical strength but also on how to develop the right mindset around training. Instagram: akihirothegreatofficial TikTok: akihirothegreat

Aug 09, 202350 minSeason 1Ep. 11

What We Wish We Knew Then

This week, the Ballet Help Desk answers questions about how we, as dance parents, would have done things differently had we known then what we know now. We also dig into questions about the age dancers start full-time training, how to handle declining an acceptance to summer programs, as well as questions around financing ballet training.

Aug 01, 202325 minSeason 1Ep. 10

Questions To Ask When Choosing A Ballet School

Have a dancer who may want to get more serious about ballet? Wondering how to choose a local ballet school? We did too! Now that we've learned a few things, we've got all the questions you might want to ask when evaluating whether or not a local school is a good fit for your ballet dancer!

Jul 28, 202326 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Three Important Questions to Ask Your Dancer

There are three important questions that will likely come up as your dancer starts to get more serious about ballet. They’re also questions that should be asked throughout the course of the child’s training. See more at www.ballethelpdesk.com

Jul 25, 202316 minSeason 1Ep. 8

When Your Dancer Wants To Quit Ballet

It's not uncommon for dancers to reach a point where they want to stop serious ballet training, and that's perfectly fine! In this podcast, we discuss various reasons why students may choose to leave serious ballet training and provide tips for parents on how to support them through this decision.

Jul 21, 202314 minSeason 1Ep. 7

Tips For Making The Most Of Summer Ballet Intensives For Your Older Teen

In this podcast we'll cover all you need to know about sending your older dancer off to summer ballet intensives. We'll cover why networking is so important, how your reputation can impact success and how to figure out if you want to stay at your summer program for year-round ballet training.

Jul 18, 202318 minSeason 1Ep. 4

Ballet Help Desk Answers Listener Questions

Ballet Help Desk answers listener questions about all aspects of ballet training. This week we delve into questions about types of ballet training, figuring out if that training is any good, and also how to manage paying for ballet training on a fixed budget. See more at www.ballethelpdesk.com

Jul 18, 202325 minSeason 1Ep. 6

Friendships In The Studio

Ballet friends are the best friends! In this podcast we talk about how to manage friendships with the same people who are your fiercest competitors. We highlight times when dancers showed great kindness and we talk about how important it is to have friends who lift you up when things aren't going your way.

Jul 18, 202320 minSeason 1Ep. 5
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