Ballet Help Desk

Eugene Ballet has grown from a small regional company into a thriving school and professional ensemble. Founder Toni Pimble, Artistic Director Jennifer Martin, and School Director Sara Lombardi discuss the company’s journey, their approach to dancer training, including how dancers in their Aspirant program move into the company, as well as how they’re shaping ballet’s future in Oregon and beyond. Read reviews of Eugene Ballet Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk TikTok:  Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In this episode of #NoThirds, we sit down with Fran Veyette, co-founder of Veyette Virtual Ballet School, to talk about the realities of ballet training and the role parents play in a dancer’s journey. Fran shares why training smarter is more important than training harder, what families should consider when choosing summer intensives, and how experiences in a company setting can shape a dancer’s future. We also look at the parenting side of ballet, including how to support your child while letting them face disappointment, why every child needs a different approach, and the life skills dancers should build early to prepare for a professional career. For parents and dancers, this episode offers practical insights into navigating the highs, lows and big decisions of pre-professional training. Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an  exclusive discount. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Davit Karapetyan, Director of The School of Philadelphia Ballet, joins us to talk about how the school is structured and how dancers move through its levels, from the pre-professional program to PBII and beyond. He explains how auditions are evaluated, what adjudicators look for, and the common mistakes dancers should avoid. We also dig into how scholarships are awarded and renewed, the housing available to students, and what families should consider when deciding if it is time to move to a company-affiliated school. Karapetyan discusses the realities of career planning at the postgraduate level, how many dancers transition into PBII and the main company, and the skills students need both inside and outside the studio before leaving home for residential training. Finally, he shares his perspective on navigating the financial realities of ballet, managing expectations in a competitive field, and what he wishes young dancers and parents better understood about the path to a professional career. Read Reviews of The School of Philadelphia Ballet Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk TikTok:  Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI  

Deanna Seay, Training Coordinator at the School of Richmond Ballet, joins us to talk about how dancers move through the school, from early training to the pre-professional program, trainee level, and second company. She explains what adjudicators look for in auditions (and common mistakes), how scholarships work at different levels, and why not all of Richmond Ballet’s trainees come from full-time training backgrounds. We also cover when families should consider a company-affiliated school, the culture Richmond Ballet aims to foster, and how students are prepared for both company life and a sustainable professional career. Read Reviews of The School of Richmond Ballet Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk TikTok:  Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI  

This is the first episode in our new Dancer Stories series, where professional dancers share their training paths their move into company life. Jaya Dhand talks about her experience at Indiana University, how she got hired by Ballet West 2, and her recent promotion to the main company. She explains the choices that shaped her training, what the audition process was like, and how she adjusted to professional life. Jaya also shares what she wishes she’d known as a student, the realities of dancer finances, and her advice for those preparing to go pro. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Former Pacific Northwest Ballet principals Sarah and Seth Orza share their training backgrounds, the hardest parts of becoming professionals, and the advice that shaped their paths. They talk about company moves, the realities of life onstage, and the transition into founding Orza ballet shoes. The conversation covers prototyping, manufacturing, and the role of their ballet network in building the business, as well as how their experiences as dancers continue to guide their work today. If you want to try out Orza brand shoes, find exclusive discounts on our website. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Fran shares more advice for students in Part 2 of #NoThirds: how respect and awareness shape auditions, why community matters, and what young dancers should know about contracts and career readiness. Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an exclusive discount. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI  

Listeners asked, and Fran Veyette answers! In this #NoThirds “Fran’s Mailbag” episode, he breaks down how casting really works, whether principals dance less, what happens when dancers date (and break up), and yes — the truth about dogs in the studio. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Tune back in tomorrow for more of your questions answered. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

When the Oscar-winning film Black Swan hit theaters, audiences were captivated by its haunting portrayal of the ballet world. In this episode, former professional dancer Lauren Fadeley-Veyette shares her experience being cast in the movie and takes us inside the rehearsal studio and film set. She reflects on working alongside Hollywood stars, the unique challenges of filming ballet on camera, and why she thinks the movie still resonates years later. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

David Morse, Academy Principal and Director of the Professional Training Division at Cincinnati Ballet Academy, joins us to share insights on how the school is structured, what adjudicators look for in auditions, and how scholarships work for students. He also discusses the culture he aims to foster at CBA, how the trainee and second company programs connect dancers to careers, and the realities of preparing young artists for professional life. From audition advice to navigating low salaries in ballet, David offers clear guidance for students and parents on the path to becoming a professional dancer. You can learn more about CBA on their website. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Mona Nicholas takes us behind the scenes of the USA International Ballet Competition in Jackson, Mississippi. She shares how the event is structured, what makes it different from other competitions, and why it attracts dancers from around the world, including professionals. We cover the selection process, scoring, advice for first-time competitors, and the role IBC plays in shaping the future of ballet. You can learn more about USA IBC on their website. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI  

Nicholas Ziegler, board member of IBC Helsinki, explains how the competition is structured, how dancers are selected, and what makes the event stand out. He shares tips for first-time competitors, talks about the role of the jury and master teachers, and reflects on the rapid growth of ballet competitions around the world. Learn more about IBC Helsinki on their website Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

  What does it take to raise dancers in today’s ballet world? Racheal Nye, Director of the Yvonne Chouteau School and Studio Company at Oklahoma City Ballet, shares why honesty, adaptability, and mental health are essential in training. We talk about the pressures of audition season, how social media influences young dancers, the role of parents, and why leadership today is about more than just perfect technique. Learn more about OKCB School on their website Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

When is it really time for a dancer to move into full-time training? In this episode of #NoThirds, we unpack the big factors that go into that decision. From the benefits of full-time programs and the right age to make the switch to how the social environment and quality of teaching can shape a dancer’s growth, we cover it all. Fran also gets honest about the trade-offs of staying local in after-school training. Plus, we discuss why things like physical therapy access, peer dynamics, and open communication matter so much. This episode offers real talk and helpful insights to guide dancers and parents as they consider the next steps. Learn more about Fran and Veyette Virtual Ballet School More Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

MOSA Ballet School was founded by a mother who wanted to create the kind of school she would have wanted her daughter to attend -- a place where students are truly heard and respected. Combining classical ballet, contemporary dance, and holistic training, MOSA focuses on developing not just the performer, but the whole dancer. The school emphasizes self-evaluation, open communication, a supportive environment, and career preparation to nurture artistic and personal growth. Learn more about Mosa on their website Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

This is part two of our series with siblings Bryce and Noelle Lee, who bring both the male and female ballet dancer perspective to the conversation. Bryce, founder of the Male Dance Connection, and Noelle share their experiences in ballet, highlighting both the challenges and successes male dancers face. They talk about the importance of mentorship, community, and creating supportive environments for boys in dance, as well as practical ways MDC helps, like guidance for summer programs. They also discuss how tough it can be for young boys in ballet today. As working dancers, they’ve built MDC to grow their network, supplement their income, and create opportunities beyond performing. Learn more about the Male Dance Connection on their website or on Instagram @themaledanceconnection Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI  

In this two-part series, siblings Bryce and Noelle Lee bring both the male and female ballet dancer perspective to the conversation. Bryce, Founder of the Male Dance Connection, and Noelle share their experiences in ballet, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of male dancers. They discuss the importance of mentorship, community, and supportive environments for boys in dance, as well as practical ways MDC helps, like navigating summer programs. They also talk about how hard it can be for young boys in ballet today. As working dancers themselves, they’ve created MDC to expand their network, supplement their income, and build careers beyond performing. Learn more about the Male Dance Connection on their website or on Instagram @themaledanceconnection Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI    

In this conversation, Sarah Wroth discusses the current state of the ballet program at Indiana University, addressing concerns about state mandates and program restructuring. She emphasizes the strong support from the community and alumni, clarifies the differences between degree options, and reassures that current students will not be affected by changes. The conversation also highlights the importance of clear communication and the program's commitment to preparing students for successful careers in dance. Learn more about the IU Dance Program on their website Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide Buy Summer Corrections Journals Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

This is a rerelease of one of our popular episodes from our series on ballet summer intensives. Wondering how much the RAs see of student antics? More than you think! We're talking with Robert Fulton and Camille Kellems, both professional dancers and also RAs at ballet summer intensives. Get ready for a mix of insider info that's helpful for parents as well as hilarious anecdotes as Robert and Camille let us in on what really goes on behind the scenes. From dorm shenanigans to studio mishaps, they’ve seen it all and they're here to spill the tea.  Robert and Camille are also the founders of Ballet Scout. You can learn more about what they do on their website. Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide Buy Summer Corrections Journals Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

What do ballet teachers really want students and parents to understand? In this episode of #NoThirds, we tackle issues in ballet training from the perspective of the teacher -- what frustrates them, what motivates them, and what they wish families better understood about the training process. From managing expectations to building trust, we dig into the unseen dynamics that shape every class and rehearsal and student/teacher relationship. Learn more about Fran and Veyette Virtual Ballet School More Links: Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Ballet Help Desk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI