In every ballet studio, there is a wall of mirrors. It reflects the people within. They’re part of a closed, elite group that asks for sacrifice and devotion from its members. This insular community produces iconic artists. It’s founded on a strict power structure, often with one man at the top. By tracing the origins of this unusual lifestyle, starting with the legacy of choreographer George Balanchine and the intimate stories of young dancers, we expose the beauty of an art form and the complexity of ballet culture.

This episode contains sexual misconduct. Sensitive listeners, please be advised.

This story came to us from the podcast The Turning from creators Rococo Punch and iHeartPodcasts.

It was produced by Erika “Once a Snappa always a Snappa” Lantz and Alin Lantz Lesser.

Editing by Emily Forman. Sound Design by James Trout. Assistant Producer is Jessica Kariisa. Digital production by Andrea Asuaje. Fact checking by Andrea López-Cruzado. Executive producers Jessica Alpert, John Perotti, Katrina Norvell, and Nikki Ettore.

There are more episodes of The Turning, exploring the world of ballet, you can find wherever you get your podcasts.  Find more information and pictures on Instagram @RococoPunch.

Season 14 - Episode 6