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