Beyond the Barre Podcast

In this episode, the conversation explores the journey of a principal dancer at the Australian Ballet, delving into the importance of mindset, resilience, and the emotional experiences tied to performance. The discussion also touches on the creation of a book club aimed at fostering connections and sharing insights through literature. The conversation delves into the intersection of literature and dance, exploring how reading influences artistic expression and emotional depth in performances. It also highlights the importance of balancing a dance career with personal identity and the value of curiosity and education in shaping a well-rounded artist.

Takeaways

• Passion for dance and teaching
• Importance of mindset in ballet Artistic inspiration from literature
• Importance of vulnerability in performance

Chapters

• 00:00 The Journey of a Principal Dancer
• 06:04 Mindset and Resilience in Dance
• 10:12 Memorable Moments in Ballet
• 12:20 Experiences from the US Tour
• 18:30 Shaping Roles and Artistic Growth
• 24:18 The Mental Game of Ballet
• 30:34 The Nerdy Ballerina Book Club
• 38:08 Finding Artistic Inspiration
• 42:51 Balancing Dance and Personal Identity
• 46:57 The Role of Education in Dance
• 52:51 Exploring Curiosity Beyond Dance
• 01:00:22 Highs and Lows of a Dance Career
• 01:05:36 Rapid Fire Insights

The conversation covers Stephen Tannos' artistic inspiration, challenges in choreography, the pressure of virality, evolution in creative direction, turning points in his career, and the concept behind his new project 'Dance Off - Battle of the Mind'. The discussion emphasizes the importance of authenticity, creative expression, and the evolution of artistic endeavors. Stephen Tannos discusses the creation of his show, the format, and the personal risk and authenticity involved. He emphasizes the importance of authentic characters in dance and the need for fun and playfulness. Additionally, he shares insights into creating viral dance videos, the process of recreating the Macarena, and his choreography creation process. Finally, he discusses how he deals with criticism and external voices in the dance industry. The conversation covers topics such as dealing with criticism and resilience, the unique Australian dance style and creativity, challenges in dance training, and the art of reimagining music. It delves into the importance of resilience in the face of criticism, the distinct style of Australian dancers, the need for more risk-taking and leading in dance training, and the process of reimagining music for dance performances. The conversation delves into the behind-the-scenes preparation for the show 'Dance Off: A Battle of the Minds', the creation of content to build excitement, the challenges of choreographing for film and stage, and concludes with a rapid fire Q&A and closing remarks.

Takeaways

• Authenticity is key to creative expression
• The pressure of virality can hinder artistic freedom Authenticity and personal risk are integral to creating a dance show.
• Fun and playfulness are essential elements in dance, and authenticity is crucial for relatability.
• Creating viral dance videos and the process of recreating iconic dance moves can be a fun and engaging way to connect with audiences.
• The choreography creation process involves a deep connection to music and a playful, childlike approach.
• Dealing with criticism and external voices in the dance industry requires resilience and a focus on personal growth. Resilience is crucial in dealing with criticism
• Australian dancers have a unique and powerful style
• Dance training needs more risk-taking and leading
• Reimagining music is an essential part of the creative process in dance Behind-the-scenes insights into show preparation
• Challenges of choreographing for different formats

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 01:20 Artistic Inspiration and Authenticity
• 03:02 Challenges in Choreography
• 04:37 The Pressure of Virality
• 06:24 Evolution and Creative Direction
• 09:05 Turning Points in Career
• 13:17 Authenticity and Creative Expression
• 14:19 New Project: Dance Off - Battle of the Mind
• 16:50 Creating the Show
• 17:29 The Show's Format
• 18:03 Personal Risk and Authenticity
• 18:59 Authentic Characters in Dance
• 19:31 Fun and Playfulness in Dance
• 20:09 Creating Viral Dance Videos
• 20:35 The Macarena Recreation
• 28:07 Choreography Creation Process
• 31:53 Dealing with Criticism
• 32:48 Dealing with Criticism and Resilience
• 34:18 Australian Dance Style and Creativity
• 37:04 Challenges in Dance Training
• 46:08 The Art of Reimagining Music
• 48:12 Behind the Scenes of Dance Off: A Battle of the Minds
• 49:07 Creating Content and Building Buzz
• 54:44 Choreographing for Film and Stage
• 57:23 Rapid Fire Q&A and Closing Remarks

In our very first episode of Beyond the Barre with Audra & Tanya, we sit down with former Principal Artist of The Australian Ballet, Amy Harris, for an honest conversation about the career that inspired generations of dancers.

Amy takes us through her remarkable journey—from a young student in regional Victoria to earning a coveted contract with The Australian Ballet. She shares what life inside one of the world's leading ballet companies is really like, the dedication and resilience required to rise through the ranks, and the unforgettable moment she was promoted to Principal Artist.

We also explore the realities behind a professional ballet career, the emotions surrounding retirement after more than two decades on stage, and Amy's exciting transition into coaching and mentoring the next generation of dancers.

Whether you're a dancer, teacher, parent, or simply love hearing inspiring stories of passion and perseverance, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at life at the highest level of ballet.

The conversation covers the experience of getting custom dance shoes and the process of finding the perfect fit. It also delves into the importance of comfort and customization in dance footwear.

Takeaways

• Customization is key
• Comfort is crucial

Chapters

• 00:00 The Journey to Customization
• 00:34 The Perfect Fit

The conversation covers the importance of dance, the evolution of dance training, and the diversity in dance, highlighting changing perspectives, adaptation, and the significance of individual variation.

Takeaways

• Importance of individual variation
• Evolution of dance training

Chapters

• 00:00 The Importance of Dance
• 06:51 Diversity in Dance

🎙️A Moment that all dancers dream of.✨

In this special preview of Episode 1, Amy Harris shares the emotional moment she called her mum after receiving life-changing news.

Episode 1 launches 22 July.

Follow Beyond the Barre with Audra and Tanya on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and join us on Instagram: beyondthebarrepodcast.au

The podcast where the dance industry comes to life through honest conversations, expert insights and inspiring stories.

Hosted by Audra Tory and Tanya Singh, Beyond The Barre features conversations with leading professionals from across the dance world. Together, we explore the journeys, challenges and experiences that shape life in the performing arts.

From training and teaching to performing, choreography, competitions, leadership and career development, we go beyond the studio to uncover the stories and knowledge that inspire dancers, educators, parents and industry professionals alike.

Whether you're just beginning your dance journey or have spent a lifetime in the industry, Beyond The Barre is a place to learn, be inspired and connect with the people who make the dance world what it is.

Real Conversations. Expert Insights. Beyond the Studio.