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Get Ready for World Ballet School Day, Streaming July 7

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Mark your calendars! This Tuesday, July 7, join pre-professional dancers across the globe in an inaugural live-stream event celebrating World Ballet School Day 2020. Made "by students for students," the event aims to bring young generations of dancers together in an international recognition of the unifying power of ballet, dance and the art world at large. The program, featuring dancers from a dozen internationally renowned ballet academies and organizations, will be broadcasted online on the WBSD website at 7 am EDT and will be available for viewers on-demand for one month following the premiere.


Students around the world will participate in discussions and showcase their training on this online platform, with special attention given to the effect of COVID-19 shutdown on young artists. The event will also feature performance footage, including the premiere of a new work choreographed by Didy Veldman focusing on physical restriction—a familiar sensation for dancers worldwide during the pandemic. Students from The Royal Ballet School, San Francisco Ballet School, Canada's National Ballet School, Paris Opéra Ballet School, The Royal Danish Ballet School and the Dutch National Ballet Academy worked together with Veldman over Zoom to create the new work. She and UK–based company BalletBoyz then compiled each dancer's video into the finished product for the upcoming broadcast.


The WBSD collaboration, conceived by English National Ballet School director Viviana Durante, has a wide reach, featuring 12 schools and institutions from three different continents. Participating organizations include:

The Australian Ballet School
Boston Ballet School
Dutch National Ballet Academy
English National Ballet School
Canada's National Ballet School
Palucca University of Dance Dresden
Paris Opéra Ballet School
Prix de Lausanne
Royal Ballet School
Royal Danish Ballet School
San Francisco Ballet School
New Zealand School of Dance



"World Ballet School Day provides students from across the globe the opportunity to connect and unite through the common language of dance," says Boston Ballet School director Margaret Tracey. "Their passion and commitment to training brings together the next generation of artists who will lead us into a more hopeful future." For more information, visit the WBSD website, and share your experience on social media with #WorldBalletSchoolDay.



"World of Dance" Week 6 Recap: Let the Duels Begin!

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The Duels are one of our favorite aspects of "World of Dance." There's nothing like seeing such talented dancers going all-out, head to head, for a shot at performing on the iconic "World of Dance" stage. And this season's first week of Duels did not disappoint.

As an added bonus, our eternal fave tWitch joined the "WOD" judges this week to aid in the Duels decision-making process. What did he and the judges think of the performances? Read on to find out.


Jefferson & Adriantia


The judges chose to have the two Latin-style duos, Jefferson & Adrianitaand Luca & Allesandra, face off. And while both couples completely slayed, we were blown away by Jefferson & Adrianita's technical, passionate performance. The judges decided unanimously that Jefferson & Adrianita won the Duel.

UPeepz


Pitting The Rise against UPeepz—two strong, dynamic hip-hop crews—was a smart move by the judges. From the get-go, we were hooked on Upeepz's performance. Yes, that was partly because it reminded us of one of our favorite vintage "So You Think You Can Dance" routines. But beyond the bellhop uniforms, UPeepz delivered a tight, high-energy routine, with some serious shade-throwing at the end. UPeepz won the Duels 2-1.

Kurtis Sprung


Finally, the judges had contemporary phenom Kurtis Sprung go up against dynamic duo Styles & Emma. TBH, both performances had us in. Our. Feels. But Kurtis's emotional routine (dedicated to his girlfriend, aww) stole our hearts. (And the last name "Sprung" is totally right for Kurtis—he can really jump!) The judges voted 2-1 for him to win the Duel.

Next week, the Duels will continue, and guest judge tWitch will bring back two eliminated acts to the Redemption stage. Who are you hoping to see?

Hamilfilm's Almost Here. These Are the Dance Moments We've Been Thinking About Non-Stop

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Broadway may be shut down until 2021, but there's one especially bright light amidst the coronavirus cancellations: the Hamilfilm.

Instead of its originally planned theatrical release in October 2021, the filmed version of Broadway's Hamilton got fast-tracked to a July 3 release on Disney+. Fans can now transform their living room into "the room where it happens" for the $6.99 monthly subscription fee—less than the price of a movie ticket.

Whether you saw the original cast in person or have memorized every single lyric from afar, Hamilton mania is about to hit again. Naturally, it's time to obsess over Andy Blankenbuehler's Tony-winning choreography. Dance is enmeshed in the entire show, but here are a few of our favorite elements to watch out for.



The entire ensemble


Some musicals' ensembles subtly step-touch in the background, while others' storm the stage with energy during unexpected dance breaks. Hamilton's ensemble however, dances nearly non-stop throughout the show in a variety of styles, none of which ever feel dated or out of place.

"Picture a group of dancers who can do it all," wrote Suzannah Friscia in Dance Magazine's June 2016 cover story. "Place them in an unlikely musical about America's first treasury secretary, Alexander Hamilton—think city streets pulsing with revolution, battlefields and ballrooms, political intrigue and scandal—and watch them go. In one moment, their hands look almost Fosse-like; in another, they're soldiers in full battle regalia, all whirling physicality and sharp movements; in still another, they sweep across the floor in formal gowns, the style aptly reminiscent of an 18th-century courtship dance. This is the world of Hamilton."

The signature phrase we can't stop doing


Who doesn't love a memorable bit of syncopated unison choreography? Blankenbuehler mined the rhythmic intricacies of "My Shot" to create a movement theme for the show that's downright catchy.

Check out the tutorial below to learn the "I am not throwing away my shot" phrasework straight from the creator. There's no shame in dancing alongside the cast from home.


When "Satisfied" hits rewind


In "Helpless," Eliza Schuyler meets and falls in love with Hamilton. The following song, "Satisfied," is her sister Angelica Schuyler's retelling of that fateful night. Blankenbuehler's treatment is masterful—he literally rewinds portions of the choreography from "Helpless," creating a waterfall effect that's at once mesmerizing and disorienting.


The Battle of Yorktown


During the pivotal Revolutionary War battle scene, the cast seems to quadruple in size, thanks to Blankenbuehler's crisp movement and seamlessly shifting formations. The battle plays out entirely through movement—void of cheesy lighting effects or pyrotechnics—and it's incredibly powerful.


"The Room Where It Happens"


The dancing in this scene is delicious, ooey-gooey jazz, and another testament to Hamilton's choreographic variety.


The choreo that has its own hashtag


During Burr and Hamilton's duel, the bullet that kills Hamilton is represented through dance by the impeccable Ariana DeBose. As Hamilton recalls his life, she traverses across the stage toward him in slow motion.

"Not many dancers have a stage presence strong enough to earn its own Twitter hashtag," wrote Friscia. "But Ariana DeBose has reached that level....[it's] a moment she's become so well-known for that it's simply called #thebullet."

YAGP Has Announced the Winners of the 2020 Pas De Deux Virtual Competition

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Last weekend, Youth America Grand Prix took to the internet, hosting its first virtual pas de deux competition. Over the course of three days, YAGP streamed videos from its regional events' highest-ranked competitors for a panel of esteemed judges. And, drum roll please... YAGP has just announced the winners, spanning three categories: Senior Classical, Junior Classical and Contemporary.

You can watch the full virtual awards ceremony, hosted by YAGP director of external affairs Sergey Gordeev, below, or scroll down for the list of winners. And if you're missing the thrill of competition, don't fear: Gordeev announced that registration for the 2021 season will open on July 10, with both in-person and virtual options available.

Congratulations to all!



Senior Classical Pas de Deux


1st Place (tie)

Margarita Fernandes (age 14) and Antonio Casalinho (age 16)

Conservatorio Internacional de Ballet e Dança Annarella Sanchez, Portugal


Michela Caprarulo (age 15) and Riccardo Umberto Bruttomeso (age 17)

Il Balletto, Italy

2nd Place

Alexis Workowski (age 15) and Josue Gomez (age 16)

Fort Lauderdale Youth Ballet, Florida

3rd Place

Catherine Rowland (age 15) and Paul Piner (age 18)

International Ballet Academy, North Carolina

Junior Classical Pas de Deux 


1st Place

Ana Luisa Negrao (age 15) and Vitor Vaz (age 15)

ITEGO em Artes Basileu Franca, Brazil

2nd Place

Madison Brown (age 14) and Brady Farrar (age 14)

The Art of Classical Ballet, Lents Dance Company and Stars Dance Studio, Florida

3rd Place

Nina Miro Verger (age 9) and Asier Bautista (age 11)

Escola de Dansa d'Alaro and Jove Ballet de Catalunya, Spain

Contemporary Pas de Deux 


1st Place

Emma VanDeWater (age 17) and Styles Dykes (age 19)

Odasz Dance Theatre, New York

2nd Place

Livia Childers (age 14) and Reed Henry (age 15)

Ballet CNJ, New Jersey

3rd Place (tie)

Farrah Hirsch (age 14) and Chase Vining (age 18)

Master Ballet Academy, Arizona


Natalie May Dixon (age 17) and Tyler Schellenberg (age 18)

Edge School, Canada

How Broadway Dance Center’s Online Options Can Broaden Your Dance Horizons

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2020 may not be the year you make it to NYC to study with your dance idols face to face, but that doesn't mean you have to give up on your summer dance dreams. Broadway Dance Center, a top training destination for professionals and students since 1984, is currently offering more than 75 online open classes every week, and on July 13th, the studio will launch its first-ever online summer program. Whether you're looking for drop-in classes to supplement what you're getting at your home studio or you want a structured summer course that will take your training to the next level, BDC is here for you.



Open Classes from the Pros


"BDC is the biggest commercial dance studio in NYC, and it has the most skilled teachers in that demographic," says hip-hop instructor AntBoogie, who's been with the studio for 20 years. Whether you're a beginner, an aspiring pro, or a working dancer trying to stay at the top of your game, there's a class on the online schedule that's right for you. Take your pick from jazz, theater, contemporary, tap, ballet, street styles, and more.


Expect to be pushed hard. "I teach online just like I teach in the studio. I'm not changing a thing," says longtime jazz faculty member Sheila Barker. "I'm going to help you grow and make sure you're dancing from the heart, because that's what BDC is about."



Aside from polishing your technique and artistry, you can use online classes to connect with industry movers and shakers. "Many of BDC's teachers work in the field as performers and choreographers," says Ellenore Scott, who's been teaching contemporary jazz at the studio since 2011 and most recently choreographed the off-Broadway revival of Little Shop of Horrors, now planned for 2021. "It's so beneficial for students to network with those people. And for young professionals—they could get you your next job!"


While BDC is an NYC institution, the shift to virtual classes has allowed the studio to stretch beyond the Big Apple. Summer guest teachers so far have included Kathryn Burns, Emmy-winning choreographer of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (teaching from L.A.); Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, choreographer of SIX the Musical (teaching from London); Jenny Laroche, associate choreographer for SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical (teaching from Florida); and Brian and Scott Nicholson, creative directors, choreographers, and performers for Ariana Grande (also based in L.A.). The Nicholsons recently taught a tour choreography class as well as a street jazz master class, and another tour choreo session is in the works. "We focus on performance," Brian Nicholson says. "We give prompts so people can imagine the audience and dance as if they're on an arena stage. People need to be refining their stage skills even during this quarantine time."


A New Kind of Intensive


Applications are due July 8th for BDC's four-week online summer program (for ages 18–35) and two-week junior programs (for ages 10–18). In the adult program, you'll choose a track—contemporary, theater or street dance—and work with a faculty mentor and staff advisor to craft a schedule of seven weekly classes from the livestream offerings. "We'll give you tips on navigating our teachers and classes in a way that makes sense for what you're hoping to gain," says Emily Collin, BDC's director of educational programs. You'll also have a weekly master class or seminar that's only open to summer program enrollees. Planned seminar topics include navigating the NYC dance industry and doing self-taped auditions.


The junior program runs similarly, but with a more curated class schedule. You'll choose a focus and take 10 classes a week: four within your concentration, two outside of it, two ballet, one master class, and one seminar. For all ages, the idea is that the intensive can be personalized to your training needs and your schedule. For instance, if you have a summer job with set hours or you live in a different time zone (or country!), your advisor can take those considerations into account to ensure you still get a well-rounded summer program experience.


You'll check in with your faculty mentor one-on-one to go over specific goals and receive direct feedback. Small group mentoring sessions, meanwhile, "will offer a chance to meet other people in the program, share goals and struggles, and build community," Collin says. "Taking class online, it's easy to feel alone. We want you to feel connected."


Why BDC?


"This is a great time to dive deep into learning," Nicholson says. "There are fewer distractions. You have time to think and explore." A trusted school like BDC, with its diverse teaching roster of former and current professionals who are also committed educators, can give you the guidance you need. "Everyone at BDC really cares about the art," Nicholson says. "It's more than training the body."


Thanks to BDC's wide selection of drop-in classes and the flexibility of the online intensive, this summer you don't have to be in NYC to dance like you're there. "If you've never been able to study with us face to face, now's the moment," Barker says. "BDC is here, doing what we do best. We'll give you a great class."

Jocelyn Wynn is Your June Cover Model Search Editors' Choice Winner

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Congratulations to the June Cover Model Search Editors' Choice video winner, Jocelyn Wynn! Catch her solo below, and make sure to enter the Cover Model Search here.


Joceyln Wynn, "Egos Are Detached"


Four Ways to Keep Your Dance Life Alive After College Graduation

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So you've decided not to pursue a traditional professional dance path, but you still want to keep dancing after college. After all, dance is much more than just a hobby—you can't imagine your life without it. Here's how to find the right postgrad dance opportunity for you.


Start Social Dancing


Social dance is the noncompetitive version of ballroom dance. It involves many of the same styles, but without the pressure of judging. Georgia Grace Schrubbe, owner of the Holy City Salsa Dance Studio City in Charleston, SC, says many of her students who trained in other styles growing up got into dance genres like salsa and bachata after graduating.

The freestyle and partner aspects of these dances challenge your creativity and improve your musicality. Plus, you'll have the chance to meet people in new dance circles.


Join an Adult Dance Team


For anyone looking to stay onstage after graduation, adult dance teams offer performance opportunities, as well as chances to teach workshops and choreograph. Joining a team is also a great way to meet other recent grads who share your love of dance.

To find the right group, We The Females member Susan Trinh recommends checking out classes taught by team members before auditioning. "It's a great way to get to know their style and learn what being part of the team would be like," she says. Ask questions about how often the team rehearses, and what the commitment level is like.



Become a Fitness Instructor


If you thrive in front of a room full of people, consider becoming a dance fitness instructor. And no, we're not talking about your mom's Jazzercise class. Check out studios like AKT, Dance Body, and 305 Fitness, which offer high-intensity dance cardio workouts set to your favorite pop and hip-hop music.

You'll probably find that leading these classes challenges you as much as high-level dance classes did, says long-time 305 Fitness instructor Anastacia Clarke. "You have to memorize 40-plus dances and learn how to queue them while leading a class. It's a lot of information and you really have to stay focused," she says.

Create Your Own Approach


If you can't find the exact opportunity you're looking for, you can create your own. For example, Boston-based dancer Branden Seng says he loves making concept videos because it allows him to use his imagination to tell people what's on his mind.

Concept videos are only one way to express yourself. If finding your own way in the dance world seems scary, reach out to college contacts for advice on how to break out on your own. Ask about forming the dance troupe of your dreams, applying for artistic grants, or renting studio space. There are tons of resources available for dancers looking to do their own thing.

Beyond #Hamilfilm: 8 More Shows We'd Love to Stream During Quarantine

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The professionally-shot film of Hamilton is smashing streaming records on Disney+, transforming any computer or TV in America into the Richard Rodgers Theatre. And while we understand that not every Broadway show has gorgeously-filmed footage on file, we can still dream: Could this be a new way to experience live theater, at least while Broadway remains closed? Here are eight other shows that we'd love to view from our living rooms.



"Oklahoma!" (2019)



Bring your own chili and cornbread. Daniel Fish's edgy take on the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical was scheduled for a national tour this fall. With those plans on hold, now would be the perfect time to share this revelatory production, including Ali Stroker's Tony Award-winning performance as Ado Annie, with audiences at home.

"Aladdin" 



Now that they've entered the whole new world of streaming theater, it's easy to imagine Disney+ releasing pro shots of Disney on Broadway shows. Since 2014, Aladdin has enchanted audiences at the New Amsterdam Theatre; a national tour was cut short due to the coronavirus. This family-friendly pick would be popular with audiences of all ages.

"Hadestown"



Hadestown's message of hope during dark times is more necessary now than ever before. Singer/songwriter Anais Mitchell's take on ancient Greek mythology, which addresses everything from climate change to workers' rights, is eerily relevant to current events.

"Moulin Rouge!"



Traveling to Paris may not be an option at the moment, but a streamed recording of Moulin Rouge! could be just the ticket to tide us over until we can revisit the City of Lights in person. The classic love story and familiar music, as well as the incredible dancing and sets, would make it a surefire hit with mainstream TV audiences.

"The Prom"



This year, many students could unfortunately relate to Emma and Alyssa's canceled prom. While we wait for the feature film version to drop, a broadcast of the stage show, with its uplifting story and high-energy dance numbers, would be the perfect consolation for anyone who missed out on their school dance.

"Mean Girls"



It'll be harder for the Plastics to rule the cafeteria when classes go virtual this fall. Performances of Mean Girls both at the August Wilson Theatre and across the country have been paused, but maybe NBC's new Peacock streaming service, which hosts other Tina Fey material such as "30 Rock," could provide access to the stage version of the 2004 film. (In fact, the show might already have footage on file for its previously-announced movie version.)

"Six"



It only premiered in 2017, but Six has already been performed on the West End, throughout the UK, in Chicago, Australia, New Zealand, and on cruise ships. Could its next stop be a streaming service? Like Hamilton, Six combines pop culture and modern music with history, shining the spotlight on the six ex-wives of King Henry VIII and imagining them as a high-energy girl group.

"Ain't Too Proud"



If there's one thing we could all use right now, it's some sunshine on this decidedly cloudy day (year?). Featuring memorable music by the Temptations and Tony Award-winning choreography by Sergio Trujillo, this jukebox musical would have us dancing in our living rooms.


Ballroom Star Hayley Erbert Writes a Letter to Her Teenage Self

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Hayley Erbert's star quality has dazzled television and stage audiences alike. Erbert competed on Season 10 of "So You Think You Can Dance," landing a spot in the Top 6 before she even turned 20. After dancing alongside Julianne and Derek Hough on two of their tours, she entered the "Dancing with the Stars" universe, dancing in the troupe for six seasons, serving as a mentor on "DWTS: Juniors," and joining the "DWTS" team on four live tours. Follow her on Instagram @hayley.erbert to find out where you can see her dancing next. —Cadence Neenan




Dear Hayley,

First and foremost, dance always has been and always will be your superpower. It is how you will inspire, reach, and connect with others. But more importantly, it is how you will connect with yourself on the deepest level. Dancing is so much more than just your job. It is your passion, and still, to this day, it's how you freely express yourself.

The best piece of advice I can give you is to always believe in yourself. You will have the most amazing support system throughout your journey, but remember: YOU are enough! When you are struggling or feel lost, return to your love of dance, and you will find yourself again.

Lastly, your body is your instrument—treat it with love and compassion. Your mind is the driving force. As hard as it may be at times, throw your insecurities, comparisons, and doubts away. There is no one like you, so embrace and continue to fine-tune your unique qualities. You are so special, and you have no idea the impact that you can have on the world. Through the difficult times, have faith in your journey and in yourself. You are exactly where you're meant to be. Know that everything will be OK.

I'm so proud of you, and even more excited for you to experience the beautiful future you have ahead of you.

All my love,

Hayley

Please Enjoy the Quarantine Genius of “Swan Lake Bath Ballet”

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That old saying about limitations breeding creativity—hat tip to Orson Welles—has never felt more relevant than in these lockdown days. Here's the latest brilliant dance project born (hatched?) of quarantine restrictions: "Swan Lake Bath Ballet," a contemporary take on the classic featuring 27 A-list ballet dancers performing from their own bathtubs.



The BBC commissioned the project from choreographer Corey Baker. And while you might be imagining a lighthearted, soapy romp (full disclosure: that's what we pictured when we first heard about "Swan Lake Bath Ballet" back in May), the result has striking beauty and complexity, as well as some gentle splashstick humor.



Baker, the director of Corey Baker Dance and an alum of BalletBoyz, told The Guardian that he created the choreography in his own bathroom. He made special tutorial videos to help the film's impressive cast—including American Ballet Theatre's Skylar Brandt, The Royal Ballet's Meaghan Grace Hinkis, National Ballet of Canada's Jurgita Dronina, and Paris Opéra Ballet's Mathias Heymann—learn the tub-specific moves. The dancers then filmed themselves on their phones. Some of them performed in colored water; one filled his tub with feathers, harvested from 20 pillows. Producer Anne Beresford, director of photography Nicola Daley, editor Travis Moore, and line producer Guy Trevellyan used innovative tech solutions to make the results feel remarkably polished.


The filming process was "like trying to hang a picture with your eyes closed from 5 miles away," Baker said in a statement. He credits the gifted cast for making it all work: "Dancers became camera operators, stage managers, as well as costume and prop department, not to mention performing tricky choreography at the same time, all from their bath tubs."

Here's When Dance Competitions Are Planning to Return to the (IRL) Stage

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As we step into month five of #SocialDisDancing, Nationals season is upon us—though it's looking very different this year. What hasn't changed? Your indomitable team spirit and commitment to your craft, whether that means shining onstage or rocking it in your living room.

As promised in our Summer 2020 issue, here's a roundup of competitions that have rescheduled 2020 events due to pandemic-related concerns. We'll continue to update this list throughout the summer as conditions evolve. Many competitions are returning to live events with a myriad of new health and safety guidelines in place; make sure to read each competition's policy thoroughly to determine if you'll be comfortable returning to the stage.


Artistic Dance Exchange


ADE has consolidated their 2020 National competition and convention into one event in Orlando, FL, July 23–26. They will also be kicking off their 2020–2021 tour early, starting in Jacksonville, FL, October 2–4.

Artists Simply Human


ASH will be holding all its remaining 2020 events virtually, and plans to kick off its next season in Orlando, FL, October 23–25.

Backstage Competition


Backstage has added a short extension to its 2020 Season, starting back up August 14–16 in Millstone, NJ, then making other stops in NJ and NY in October and November.

Bravo


Bravo has tentatively rescheduled some of its postponed regional dates over July and August.

Break The Floor


Break The Floor's Summer Jam, a workshop and competition experience, will tour cities across the U.S. and Canada this July and August.

Celebration Talent


Celebration Talent will hit the road in August on its "2020 Remix Tour," with several rescheduled regional competitions.

Fusion National Dance Challenge


Fusion has added new 2020 tour dates, starting July 17–19 in Miami, FL, and continuing every weekend in August.

Groove Dance Competition


Groove has extended its 2020 season through September, while also continuing to host virtual competitions. The next live competition is August 7–9 in Millstone, NJ.

Hollywood Vibe


New 2020 tour dates have been added, starting in Scottsdale, AZ October 2–4, and continuing through the end of 2020.

Kids Artistic Revue


After finishing up their virtual 2020 Nationals events, KAR has added additional 2020 regional dates, starting July 17 in Omaha, NE, and continuing throughout August and September.

Leap Competition


Leap has rescheduled a few cities from their 2020 season throughout July, including Kansas City, KC, Tampa, FL, and Indianapolis, IN.

New York City Dance Alliance


NYCDA has opted for an entirely virtual summer. The next scheduled live event is October 30 in Mobile, AL. NYCDA plans on continuing to hold live events throughout November and December into the regularly scheduled 2021 season.

Starpower


Starpower is holding several "National Remix" events throughout July, and a number of postponed dates have been rescheduled as "Take Two" events, starting with Denver, CO, July 24–26.

Showstopper


While its Northeast and West Coast Finals have been cancelled, Showstopper's Northern, Southern, and Gulf Coast Nationals are still scheduled. Showstopper also will be holding East and West Coast dance championships over Labor Day, as well as several rescheduled regional competitions starting in July and running until early October.

8 Virtual Dance Festivals You Can Attend From Home

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While some dancers are slowly beginning to return to the studio, large-scale dance events and performances are still off the table for the foreseeable future. Luckily, a number of summer dance festivals opted to go virtual. Here are eight that made the transition, allowing you to access their innovative offerings—from classes and performances to seminars and educational courses—no matter where you've found yourself #SocialDisDancing this summer.


Oklahoma International Dance Festival (July 26—August 9)


In what would've been the Oklahoma International Dance Festival's inaugural year, OIDF founder Austin Hartel wanted to create a space for dancers to learn from international choreographers in an intimate setting. Though they've since decided to take their intensive online, they still plan to limit their class sizes to 14 dancers each to allow for individualized feedback. Technique and repertoire classes will be led by renowned choreographers, including Larry Keigwin and Brian Brooks.

Jacob's Pillow (July 7—August 29)


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There's a new playlist on Jacob's Pillow Dance Interactive! Videos featuring 2019 performances by @cltballet, @humanoove, and @cndcangers, plus newly-posted work by @emmaportner and @treymcintyredance, and MORE by Alexei Ratmansky, Jerome Robbins, Donald McKayle. While these selections all feature trios of various kinds, the similarities are deeper than that. Each of the trios on this new playlist are excerpted from larger works, except for two that emerge from duets. Dig into the playlist if you want to see how that's possible! → https://bit.ly/3fTAbOi Video 🎥: Shaina Wire, Sarah Hayes Harkins and Colby Foss of Charlotte Ballet performing Bryan Arias' "When Breath Becomes Air"(2019); video by @nelshelby

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The iconic national dance festival replaced its outdoor summer event with virtual content on its website. In addition to livestreamed events, Virtual Pillow offers videos, games, podcasts, essays, and access to the archives. Consider it the perfect opportunity to brush up on your dance history.

Vail Dance Festival (July 31—August 7)


The Vail Dance Festival will be hosting a digital festival of past performances, online forums and educational content from influential figures in the dance and music industries.

American Dance Festival (Ongoing)


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Movies by Movers starts today. Links to view the videos in our bio! This week's films: • A Feast for the Senses: Films that Delight, Surprise, and Thrill • Between the Lines, by Jen Guy Metcalf At Present, by Deirdre O’Toole Where the Spiders Live, by Holger Mohaupt Front to Back and Side to Side, by Lydia Hance •The World Outside: Screendance in Nature • Waltz of the Canoe, by Amanda Lewis Dwell, by Kim Brooks Mata Evergreen, by Holly Wilder Wanting, by Robin Gee Toporzeł, by Iwona Pasińska Flickering Glades, by Claudio Marcotulli House of Joy, by Robert Uehlin Paysages Mixtes/Mixed Landscapes, by Katrina McPherson and Harold Rheaume Thule – Beyond the borders of the Known World, by Ana Baer and Heike Salzer #adfonline #dancefilm #homeofanartform #moderndance #dancersofig #adfmbm2020 @adfmoviesby Pictured: Evergreen, by Holly Wilder

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From pre-professional dance intensives to professional workshops for educators and creators, the American Dance Festival is offering all of its courses online. The Movies by Movers Festival takes place virtually every Sunday afternoon, and features discussions with the films' artists.

Dance on Camera Festival (July 17—July 20)


The annual New York event will be held virtually this year. Many programs will be offered online for free, and $35 student tickets can be reserved in advance for full access. Among the films being showcased this year are Uprooted - The Journey of Jazz Dance, and Land of the Sweets, the Burlesque Nutcracker.

Brighton Dance Festival (August 3—8)


The 11th annual Brighton Dance Festival will include Zoom classes and livestreamed performances from BDF guest artists, past and present. BDF will also be hosting online discussions covering a variety of industry topics, from career navigation to mental health for artists.

Boston Contemporary Dance Festival (August 15)


The one-day dance festival produced by Urbanity Dance is hosting two virtual showcases. The earlier showcase will include excerpts of past work, while the later showcase will feature new works choreographed, performed, and filmed in non-traditional spaces during quarantine.

Fire Island Dance Festival (July 17)


The annual fundraising festival for Dancers Responding to AIDS (DRA) will now be held virtually for free (donations encouraged) with advance registration. The virtual festival will feature world premieres from Ayodele Casel, Larry Keigwin, and Stephen Petronio. It will also include past Fire Island performances choreographed by Kyle Abraham, Al Blackstone, and Garrett Smith.

How to Dance in a Face Mask

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There's a new must-have accessory for the dancers who've begun to venture back into the studio. Face masks are essential to protect your teachers and fellow dancers (not to mention their families) from coronavirus. But they definitely make dancing more complicated.

How can you prepare for—and adjust to—the new masked normal? Here's practical advice from Dr. Steven Karageanes, a primary care sports medicine specialist who's worked with the Rockettes and "So You Think You Can Dance," and Anna Dreslinski Cooke, a Chicago-based professional dancer who has experience dancing in cloth masks, disposable masks, N95 masks, and face shields.


What to Expect


There's no way around it: Dancing while masked is uncomfortable, especially at first. That discomfort will vary depending on how hard you're dancing and which mask you choose. Cooke recommends steering clear of the N95 style, which is restrictive (and should be reserved for frontline workers if possible). Instead, opt for a homemade cloth mask. "I knew the N95 mask would be difficult to breathe in," says Cooke. "But I'd done some indoor biking in a face mask and felt fine, so I anticipated that a homemade cotton mask would be a little bit easier."


When you start to sweat and breathe heavily—due to a warm studio, your own exertion, or both—the mask fabric will cling to your face, making your breathing feel more labored. "Especially with disposable masks, moisture from my breath would soften the fibers, so the mask would start to break down and not hold its shape anymore," says Cooke. To relieve this sweaty situation, bring a spare mask that you can swap in halfway through class or between classes.


Colorful homemade cloth facial masks

How to Mask Better


Speaking of spares, you'll want to invest in several masks, so that you can wash them between each wearing. "The last thing you want is contact with virus that's on the surface of your mask," explains Karageanes. "Plus, sweaty masks can grow other organisms as well." Yuck!


Some good news: None of the masks that Cooke tried moved around or slipped much while she was dancing. If you do need to adjust your mask for whatever reason, try to touch only the elastic ear loops or the ties that fasten at the back of your head. "Every time you bring your hands to your face, even with your mask on, it's a risk," says Karageanes.

Speak Up While You Mask Up


If you have asthma, cystic fibrosis, or any other preexisting respiratory condition, it's essential to advocate for your own health and safety while masked. Cooke, who has mild asthma, is now making sure to hit her inhaler before each in-mask studio session: "You might think you can get get through it, but safety comes first." Even if you've never had trouble breathing before, you should stop immediately if you feel faint, dizzy, or start to hyperventilate while dancing in a mask.


Your studio might have already established rules about what to do when you need this kind of break. If not, "Put up your hand, walk off to the side, and rest for a moment—preferably without removing your mask," says Karageanes. He suggests taking child's pose, kneeling on all fours, or just sitting down until you feel better. Your teacher won't think you're weak or lazy—on the contrary, your feedback will help them set the right pace for class in this new era of dancing while masked.

Deep Breaths, Everyone


Those who cross-train on a regular basis may find dancing in a mask easier than those who aren't as well-conditioned, Karageanes says. If you're preparing to return to the studio, add more steady-state cardio to your routine now, which could help you acclimate to masked dancing.


While dancing in a face mask won't be comfortable or easy, it's also a must. "We're all going to get through this together," says Cooke. "We might even end up a little bit more fit—or at least better at dancing through it, no matter what 'it' is."

SAB Student Founds Dancewear Nonprofit to Help Others in Need

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When School of American Ballet student Alexandra de Roos was 8 years old, she placed a collection box at her dance studio for others to donate their gently used dancewear. De Roos, now 17, has since turned that single collection box into a nonprofit organization that aims to minimize economic barriers in the performing arts with free dancewear and classes.

De Roos' organization, Peace Love Leotards, has collected about $2,600 of new and gently-used dancewear and $2,000 in grants and donations since formally launching in April. Dancers or studio owners can request items through a form on the organization's website.

"I knew that dancewear was really expensive and that a lot of students might not be able to do the thing that they love because it's cost-prohibitive," de Roos said. "I really wanted to create something to allow people to have the same experience of the love and joy of dance that I've been so grateful to have."




After SAB shifted its winter term online amid the COVID-19 pandemic, de Roos decided to expand Peace Love Leotards. She reached out to dance companies, resulting in partnerships with brands including Jo+Jax, Lone Reed Designs, RubiaWear and Wear Moi.

"To have them be like 'We want to help you with this and we love this idea and what you're doing is amazing,' that was really exciting to me," she said. "It was very heartwarming."

Jordan Reed, the creator of custom dancewear brand Lone Reed Designs, said she has donated seven items to Peace Love Leotards with plans to donate more consistently every quarter. Custom leotards often retail at higher prices, but Reed, a former Houston Ballet corps member, said the one-of-a-kind clothing offers an "extra bit of confidence, which can go more than a long way in a dancer's journey of training."


Paul Plesh, a sales director for Wear Moi in the United States and Canada, said the company donated 11 leotards after finding Peace Love Leotards' mission to be "commendable." Joey Dowling-Fakhrieh, the founder and creative director of Jo+Jax, said dancewear "can make a significant impact on a student's confidence, as well as how much they enjoy the process of learning dance."

De Roos has worked to expand Peace Love Leotards, Inc. rapidly in the past few months, but she first created the organization at eight years old after participating in a mentorship program with competitors in the Miss Florida and Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen pageants. The pageants, which are part of the Miss America Organization, require competitors to have personal platforms they advocate for as titleholders. As a competition dancer, de Roos instantly thought about the cost barriers to dance when wondering what her own future platform would be.

De Roos said she and her young classmates often outgrew nearly brand-new dancewear, so she approached her studio's owner about placing a collection box at the studio.



Barbara Mizell, who owns Barbara's Centré for Dance in Florida, said she was unsurprised by de Roos' proposal. De Roos always had "such a way of pushing herself and she never forgot those around her," Mizell said. As the box filled up, she distributed the dancewear to others at the studio, local schools with dance programs, and the local YMCA.

"When they could start to see that it was providing happiness for others, then it was almost like the kids couldn't wait to donate," Mizell said.

Nearly a decade after the Miss Florida organization inspired her to launch Peace Love Leotards, de Roos is now a titleholder herself, as Miss Gainesville's Outstanding Teen 2020. Her new mission for Peace Love Leotards is applying for grants, and she has already received a $1,000 grant from the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund that will be used to fund a Title 1 school class.

"The whole organization behind Peace Love Leotards is the dancers," de Roos said. "Being able to help the dancers that are in need and being able to think about the dancewear that they're going to be receiving or have received has been truly amazing."

Take Class From Celebrated Black Dancers and Raise Money for the NAACP Through Dance for Change

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Since the nationwide fight against racial inequality took center stage in May, organizations across the dance world have been looking for meaningful ways to show their support, rather than fall back on empty social media signifiers. July 10–11, Diamante Ballet Dancewear is taking action with Dance for Change, a two-day event dedicated to fundraising for the NAACP, and amplifying the voices of Black professional dancers.

Organized by Diamante Ballet Dancewear's founder, Nashville Ballet 2 dancer Isichel Perez, and freelance dancer Elise Gillum, Dance for Change makes it easy to participate. Dancers need only to make a donation to the NAACP (in any amount) and email proof to diamante.ballet@gmail.com to be given online access to a full schedule of Zoom master classes taught by Black pros artists. Teachers include Ballet Memphis' George Sanders, Boston Ballet's Daniel Durrett, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's Corey Bourbonniere, and more. "It's important that we amplify BIPOC voices during this time, and it's also important that we're conscious of where we're putting our dollars," says Bourbonniere. "Diamante is doing both with Dance for Change, and I'm honored to be in this talented group of melanated dancers."



Participants will also receive a 15 percent discount for Diamante Ballet Dancewear and be entered into a raffle. Prizes include a signed pair of pointe shoes from Boston Ballet principal Lia Cirio and private Zoom lessons from three dancers: Sanders, former PBT principal Julia Erickson, and American Ballet Theatre's Zimmi Coker. Also on the docket this weekend are two Instagram LIVE events; Sam Akins will discuss his experiences in the dance world both in the U.S. and Australia, and NB2 member Alia Federico will conduct a nutrition and wellness chat. "The NAACP's all-encompassing mission to promote equal rights and opportunities for people of color is necessary and invaluable now, and has been for over a century," says Federico. "I am so grateful to be supporting Dance for Change in its pursuit to motivate people to donate to the NAACP."

Scroll down for the weekend's schedule, and don't forget to follow along by using #diamantedanceforchange and
#blackdancersmatter.

Friday, July 10


11 am-12 pm EDT: Ballet with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre soloist Corey Bourbonniere (featuring live accompaniment by pianist Daniel McTiernan)

12-1 pm EDT: Men's Class with Ballet Memphis soloist George Sanders

1-2 pm EDT: Pointe Class with South Valley Ballet's Simone Muhammad

2-3 pm EDT: Dance Cardio with freelance teacher Samantha Barriento

Saturday, July 11


1-2 pm EDT: Jazz with Grand Rapids Ballet's Ednis Gomez

2-3 pm EDT: Ballet with Boston Ballet artist of the company Daniel Durrett (featuring live accompaniment by pianist Daniel McTiernan)

3-4 pm EDT: Conditioning with Dance Theatre of Harlem's Derek Brockington

After classes, head over to @diamante.ballet on Instagram for the following live events and raffle drawings.

5 pm EDT: Nutrition and Wellness Chat with NB2 dancers Alia Federico and Isichel Perez

7 pm EDT: Q&A with guest artist Sam Akins and Isichel Perez


Pro Dance Companies Fit for Comp Royalty

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For years, it was hard for competition dancers to find professional jobs that made full use of their technical polish, astonishing versatility, and onstage ease. But recently, some (smart) companies have begun recruiting comp kids, drawn to their adaptability and fearlessness. We've compiled a list of nine companies that are fit for comp queens and kings. Get ready to put them on your audition radar.



Convention Connection

The following companies have deep roots in the convention and competition world, with company founders and directors who not only teach on the circuit, but were also raised in it.

Royal Flux, L.A.

Jaci Royal, artistic director of Royal Flux, says she created her company to be a crowd-pleaser—something that would appeal to the masses. "It's not abstract," she says. "It's work that audiences can relate to, understand, and appreciate. Competition dance is the same way. I provide a place for dancers to continue doing what they've been training in their entire lives." Though Royal didn't design her company for competition dancers exclusively, she always knew they'd be a good fit. "They're able to perform under pressure," Royal says. "They have natural fight in them, and they are hungry. I can trust them to always take our craft to the highest, most physical level."

Soul Escape, Fort Worth, TX

SoulEscape artistic director and founder Justin Giles created his company in part because he was disappointed with the professional opportunities available to him. "I was frustrated that there was nothing out there that was right for me and all the training I had done," Giles says. "I wanted something that would allow dancers to move the way they wanted to." And that's exactly what SoulEscape is: a haven for contemporary movers. Though Giles says he doesn't make a conscious effort to recruit competition dancers, his connections to that scene means they're natural fits for the troupe. "Many of my first introduction to the dancers in my company have come from conventions or competitions," Giles says. "These dancers have exposure to a vast array of creative processes. Studios bring in multiple outside choreographers every year. They're equipped for almost anything."




Shaping Sound

Shaping Sound combines trendy movement with powerful storytelling. And watching the company perform is like looking at a comp-star family reunion: Every artist involved has either taught, assisted, or won at a range of major competitions. Their founders alone (Travis Wall, Nick Lazzarini, Kyle Robinson, and Teddy Forance) practically run The Dance Awards. So, it's safe to say your competition experience and connections will give you a leg up at the audition.


Cutting-edge Contemporary

These concert companies are relatively new to the dance world. They don't require specific training backgrounds—their dancers come from all over—and their reps incorporate a range of styles, making them a potential fit for competition standouts.



BODYTRAFFIC, L.A.

Founded in 2007, BODYTRAFFIC helped bring world-class concert dance to L.A. Its repertoire includes elements of ballet, jazz, hip hop, and modern—and competition dance is one of the few training backgrounds that require you to be proficient in all of these styles. "We need someone who can do it all," says BODYTRAFFIC dancer and former comp kid Jamal White. "There are only seven of us here. Everyone has to be able to do everything." Tiare Keeno, another BODYTRAFFIC member, says her competition-dance background prepared her well for the rigors of life in a small company. "Through the fast-paced convention world, you not only learn to pick up movement quickly, but also how to pick up movement quality and nuances quickly," Keeno says. "At BODYTRAFFIC, I've had to step into many distinctly different roles in very little time. My background has made that possible for me."

L.A. Dance Project, L.A.

Set in the heart of the commercial-dance world, the critically acclaimed L.A. Dance Project combines avant-garde creations with tried-and-true classicism—a line competition dancers already know how to walk. The repertoire is a mix of creations by founder Benjamin Millepied, reconstructions of historic works, and new commissions from up-and-coming choreographers. The company also frequently produces multidisciplinary projects, exploring film and new technologies. Competition dancers interested in being on the cutting edge while maintaining high-level technique should set this company in their sights.


Classic Concert

These more established groups are grounded in classical and modern training, but their contemporary reps are incredibly physical, requiring the full range of their dancers' powers. If you're technically proficient and fearless (as so many of you are), one of them might be right for you.

Complexions Contemporary Ballet, NYC

Complexions dancer Tatiana Melendez first discovered the company while at competition. "I took class with [Complexions co-founder] Desmond Richardson at New York City Dance Alliance when I was 12 years old," she says. "From then on, joining the company was always a goal of mine." Created 26 years ago by Richardson and Dwight Rhoden,the renowned troupe prioritizes diversity in both its dancers and its rep, which blends classical, contemporary, and more. "We even dance to Kendrick Lamar," Melendez says. Pulling off that range of styles requires the kind of confidence that comp kids, with their wealth of stage experience, have in spades. "As a competition dancer, I was always onstage, and I learned self-assurance," Melendez says. "Without competing, I wouldn't have developed the performance quality needed for this company."



Parsons Dance, NYC

Parsons Dance, founded by modern-dance innovator David Parsons in 1985, has a high-energy, high-power movement quality that's an ideal fit for competition dancers. Company standout and former comp darling Zoey Anderson says Parsons values her diverse background, and often uses it in his works—frequently asking her to incorporate her ballroom training into his choreography, for example. "I can contribute so much to new works and processes," Anderson says. "David stays true to his modern influence, but loves to blend it with other dance styles. He loves to see someone with experience in tap, hip hop, ballet, and gymnastics."

Alonzo King LINES Ballet, San Francisco, CA

A draw for powerful, charismatic ballet dancers since its founding in 1982, Alonzo King LINES Ballet—led by King and showcasing his dynamic choreography—offers a home for competition standouts with a classical bent. And as a relatively small ensemble, its dancers dance a lot. When comp alum James Gowan first joined the company, he was asked to learn three different dancers' roles in the same ballet, and says it was his competition background that prepared him to succeed. "My training and efforts in competitions are completely credible in this environment," Gowan says. "The skills I acquired from that training bolstered my professional endeavors."



Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Chicago, IL

The prestigious Hubbard Street Dance Chicago—which was founded in 1977, and has an impressively wide-ranging rep—is made up of technically adept, versatile performers who aren't afraid of taking risks. Sound familiar? In fact, the company is known for hiring competition stars, including The Dance Awards 2014 Senior Female Best Dancer winner Alyssa Allen and "So You Think You Can Dance" Season 12 winner Gaby Diaz. Hubbard Street also offers a professional training program for dancers interested in exploring the company—the perfect option for competition standouts looking to dip their toes in the concert space.

Sounding Off: Here's What Your Favorite Musicians Think of Dance Routines Set to Their Songs

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In the competition world, a small group of musicians has attained almost cultlike status, with choreographers turning to their tracks over and over. We know how we feel about these bangers—there's a reason we can't stop dancing to them—but how do the musicians feel about us? We caught up with three contemporary artists whose music has dominated the competition scene recently, and gauged their reactions to the dances set to their life's work.



Bishop Briggs


When Galen Hooks and Tim Milgram released a class video set to Bishop Briggs' "River," it was instantly clear that the song would become a competition hit. Since then, choreographers at studios around the country have tried their hand at the song (not to mention the rest of Briggs' music), layering their interpretations on top of her smoky pop beat.

On discovering her dance-world popularity: "It's been surreal to find out what people have created out of my music. I'm really active on social media, so when I see dance videos set to my music, I watch them and comment on them. I stalk! I've met people completely out of the blue who've told me they've made a dance to one of my songs. That's the coolest thing."

On making musical discoveries through choreography: "There are so many different beats that dancers pick up on that I wouldn't have thought of as the obvious choice. My favorite thing about the dance community is they're giving my songs new life. My original goal as a songwriter was to make people feel less alone. So the idea that dancers are taking a song and using it as their security blanket—or their reason to let go of that blanket and be fully themselves—it's just every dream of mine."

Watch Bishop Briggs React to a Competition Dance Routine Set to "River"



On choreographers who cut or change the arrangement of her music: "Nothing rings negative to me about making it your own. In terms of changing a song or using a remix version of a song to do a dance to, that's all part of expression and creativity. I think it's really flattering."

On what makes her music so danceable: "I hope there's something about the beats that makes people want to dance. When I'm writing, it's coming from a place of releasing something from my body, whether that's pain or sadness or joy or anger. When I think of dance, it also seems like such a release. Maybe that's what people are drawn to—it's a similar form of self-expression."


Ryan Lott of Son Lux


Son Lux incorporates elements of post-rock, electronica, hip hop, pop, and even classical—an ideal piece of clay for choreographers to shape. Songs like "Change is Everything," "Dream State," and "Cage of Bones" have blasted through competition speakers so often, we all know each detail by heart. Founder Ryan Lott is no stranger to the dance world, either: He collaborated with Travis Wall on Shaping Sound's show After the Curtain.

On discovering his dance-world popularity: "My niece is a dancer, and at one point years ago, my sister told me she kept hearing Son Lux songs at dance competitions. Around that time, my wife, who teaches dance at a university, also observed that auditionees were dancing to Son Lux. Then we started getting requests to use our music on 'So You Think You Can Dance,' and our Instagram started to light up with young dancers moving to our music."

On how he feels about said popularity: "I think it's rad! I appreciate anyone who spends their precious time listening to our music. And there's something even more special to me for those who choose to move to it."

On making musical discoveries through choreography: "Happens all the time! It's one of my favorite things about experiencing choreography to my music. Once it's made, it's no longer mine. Music lives its own life apart from its makers, and watching dance to my music often reveals this truth."

On what makes his music so danceable: "There's an internal dynamism in Son Lux songs that is relatively uncommon in pop songs. And there are relatively few lyrics in our average song—the instrumental aspects are always doing most of the work. I know a lot of choreographers look for these traits when seeking out new music. I'm not a dancer, but I've been writing music for dance—apart from the Son Lux stuff—for a very long time now. There must be something about movement that has made its way into my creative voice generally, even when I'm not writing explicitly for dance."


Jack Garratt


Dancers around the globe gravitated to Jack Garratt's 2016 "Surprise Yourself," with its powerful message, soaring vocals, and intricate beats. Since then, competition studios have created innumerable pieces to a range of Garratt's songs. And Garratt loves the dance world right back. In fact, his campaign for his latest album, Love, Death & Dancing, features eight videos full of him doing nothing but dancing.

On the role dance plays in his music: "Dance is a hugely important part of the reason I make music. It's always been part of my life, and is an important storytelling method. As someone who makes a form of dance music, the highest compliment I can get is to have someone choreograph to it."

On his personal relationship with dance: "I'm not a trained dancer, but I used to dance when I was a kid. I like music that makes me want to move. Moving is such a vulnerable act."

On his dance-world popularity: "I was aware of it a bit, because people tagged me in videos on Instagram, where my songs were being used in dance competitions. They were geo-tagged in different parts of the world that I'd never even been to, let alone known there was an active dance community there."

Watch Jack Garratt React to a Competition Dance Routine Set to "Surprise Yourself"



On making musical discoveries through choreography: "Whenever I watch a performance to a song of mine, it's amazing to see the details in the music I hadn't spotted myself. Jillian Meyers did a duet to a live performance of a song from my first album called 'The Love You're Given.' She and her partner were able to create moments out of lyrics I didn't realize were as poignant as they showed them to be. It was a story I could never have told myself, because it's their story, even if my music is the base of it."

On watching work set to his music: "You have to separate yourself. This is not my song at the moment, it's theirs. It's very important that I'm able to distance myself from songs once they've gone out and are helping other people, or are being extended by people in different ways."

On what makes his music so danceable: "I think the reason people like to choreograph to my music is because there's a deep well of rhythmic information within it. I layer things up with cross-rhythms, counter-rhythms, and syncopated rhythms. I produce as well as write my songs, so I'm creating the sonic world that surrounds them. And I like to consider the 'movement' of a song—how does it exist in a visual space? The easiest way to do that is to think about how people could dance to it."

Send These #BalletPlots TikToks to Anyone Asking What Your Variation Means

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Ever brought a friend to a ballet performance and spent all of intermission explaining what happened during act one? Yeah—ballet stories can be, uh, complicated. And that's why we're grateful for ballet student Katelyn Powers' #balletplots TikTok posts.


In a series of videos that's been taking over ballet TikTok, Katelyn explains the (sometimes very weird) stories of classic productions. Beat for beat, she breaks down ballets from Don Quixote to The Nutcracker, featuring herself as narrator, director, costume designer, and performer in every role.

The result? Quirky 60-second videos that are as funny as they are informative. Here are some of our favorites.

"Swan Lake"


@katelyn_power

swan lake story time🤪🩰🦢 ##balletplots ##ballet ##storytime

♬ original sound - katelyn_power

"Sleeping Beauty"


@katelyn_power

sleeping beauty ballet story! ##balletplots ##sleepingbeauty ##ballet ##storytime

♬ original sound - katelyn_power

"The Nutcracker"


@katelyn_power

nutcracker story!!🩰 click here ➡️##balletplots ⬅️ to see the other story videos!! ##ballet ##storytime

♬ original sound - katelyn_power

"Don Quixote"


@katelyn_power

don quixote story time!🩰🤪 ##balletplots ##ballerina ##storytime ##donquixote

♬ original sound - katelyn_power

"Coppelia"


@katelyn_power

Coppelia story time!! ##coppelia##balletplots##ballet

♬ original sound - katelyn_power

"Giselle"


@katelyn_power

giselle story time🤪🩰 ##giselle ##balletplots ##ballet ##storytime

♬ original sound - katelyn_power

8 Phenomenal Trans and GNC Dancers to Follow

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Whether through color-specific costumes, classes separated by sex, or the "traditional" view of the roles boys and girls should play in ballet, most dance students are taught that their gender determines their role in the studio beginning in elementary school. And, especially for those struggling with their own gender identity, that can cause harm and confusion. "From a very young age, I did not see myself reflected anywhere in the modern dance field," says trans dancer, choreographer, and activist Sean Dorsey. "There was a really intense message I received, which was that my body and identity don't have a place here."

Despite significant societal progress in regards to gender representation, the dance world has trailed behind, and many transgender and gender nonconforming teenagers still feel lost within the world of dance. Prominent trans and GNC professional dancers are far and few between. "Being a black trans woman means I have to work extra, extra, extra hard, because I have to set the tone for the people who come after me," says Brielle "Tatianna" Rheames, a distinguished voguer.

But the rise of social platforms has given Rheames, Dorsey, and other trans and GNC dancers a path to visibility—and that visibility helps create community and change lives. "Social media plays an extremely big part," Rheames says. "You can't just hide us anymore." Here are eight incredible trans and GNC dancers to add to your own Instagram feed.


Maxfield Haynes


A graduate of New York University and a member of Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Haynes is a non-binary dancer with a talent like no other. Their confident voice has helped create more space for artists like them in the dance world. "I'm most proud of being able to be unapologetically myself throughout my entire career so far, and being met with success," Haynes said in an interview with Dance Informa. "It's not common for somebody who is so unapologetically queer, so unapologetically Black, to be so successful in the dance industry."

Leiomy Maldonado


Maldonado is a trans dancer and activist known as the "Wonder Woman of Vogue." Among her career highlights are appearing on "America's Best Dance Crew," choreographing Willow Smith's "Whip My Hair" music video, serving as a judge on the HBO Max show "Legendary," and choreographing for "Pose." "I love the fact that they take their time [on 'Pose'] to actually educate people on the culture and to show the importance of it," Maldonado said in an interview last month. "I love how they choose to tell the stories and how they choose to celebrate our community."

Hayden J. Frederick


Frederick, originally from Minneapolis, MN, is a GNC dancer well-versed in numerous styles. They've presented work at the Highline Ballroom, Symphony Space, and the Salvatore Peridance Capezio Theatre, among others, and are a popular teacher at Broadway Dance Center in NYC. Frederick strives to create safe spaces in their dance classes, pushing back against industry biases. "In many classes, teachers tend to separate groups by gender—boys in group one, girls in group two—and they offer choreographic choices based on gender," Frederick told Dance Spirit back in March. "However harmless the intention may be, it eliminates the existence of nonbinary folks."

Brielle "Tatianna" Rheames


Finding the ballroom community was crucial to Rheames' self-discovery. "Voguing took my mind off of the hardest things I was going through as a queer youth," she says. "It was definitely a way to liberate myself, help me find my voice, and gain confidence." Today, Rheames is a trailblazer in the industry: She's appeared on "Pose," performed alongside Cher at the Met Gala, starred in Equinox's "Life Is a Ball" campaign, and appeared in Viceland's docu-series "My House," which follows the NYC ballroom scene.

Chase Johnsey


Johnsey is one of the only professional gender-fluid dancers in the ballet world. Currently artistic director of Ballet de Barcelona, he was for many years a dancer with the drag company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, which he left in 2018, alleging a culture of discrimination. Johnsey made headlines again when he performed a female corps de ballet role with English National Ballet later the same year. "When I got to ENB, they wanted me to be myself," Johnsey told Dance Magazine. "Not more masculine or more feminine—they wanted me to be honest. It was liberating, but an artistic struggle."

Sean Dorsey


After starting his career in social justice as a community organizer, Dorsey discovered dance relatively late. But his intense drive and unique vision have set him apart—especially his work with his company, Sean Dorsey Dance. "I'm very blessed to be building and investing in and supporting this community," he says. "I get to have my heart and my artistic self and my batteries recharged by witnessing all of this amazing trans and GNC and queer artistry."

Darling Shear Squire


In 2019, Darling Shear Squire made history as the first transgender artist to receive a grant from the Chicago Dancemakers Forum. Shear has had an extensive dance career, working with top choreographers like Bubba Carr and Rhonda Henriksen, and is also a fashion designer and healer.

Scout Alexander


Trans dancer Alexander is one to keep your eye on. Currently a protégé with Inlet Dance Theatre, Scout grappled with his gender identity as a young dance student. "Up until about age 17, I was struggling with having to train mainly as female, because it was the only option I had," he told Pointe. "I wasn't sure if I'd be able to have a career and have this identity, because I had been told that the two couldn't coexist." But he persevered, and is now an activist for trans representation in the dance world.

Dear Katie: How Can I Improve My Self-Confidence?

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In our "Dear Katie" series, Miami City Ballet soloist Kathryn Morgan answers your pressing dance questions. Have something you want to ask Katie? Email dearkatie@dancespirit.com for a chance to be featured!

Dear Katie,

I have a huge problem with self-confidence, partly because I studied for too long with a teacher who was emotionally abusive. Now I'm at a great studio with supportive teachers, but I still feel discouraged all the time. How can I get my old instructor's voice out of my head?

—Tiffany



Dear Tiffany,

Oh, how I wish I could tell you there were an easy answer here. To heal, you need time. That said, there are some ways to spur the healing process.

Start by sitting down and writing out a list of your strengths. It sounds silly, right? But it can really help. Put down everything you do well or like about yourself. Do you have nice port de bras? Are you a good jumper? Is your arabesque line gorgeous?

Once you have your list, use it to help yourself reprogram your brain. Every time the doubt creeps in, think of one of your strengths. Remind yourself of what you do well. Over time, replacing negative thoughts with positive ones will help you slowly start to build your confidence.

Most importantly, don't be hesitant to talk to your current teachers about this. Tell them what happened with your old teacher, and explain that you still struggle with self-doubt. It sounds like your new instructors truly care about your health and well-being. They can be valuable allies during this process. Don't be afraid to consult a mental health professional, either. A therapist can help you talk through your feelings and figure out constructive ways to move forward.

For more of Katie's helpful tips and advice, click here.


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