Ballet Help Desk

As parents, you play a crucial role in supporting your dancer’s ballet path and we know navigating the world of ballet training can be challenging. The Ballet Help Desk podcast is here to help! Tune in for expert insights on supporting your student’s ballet education. We cover key topics like summer intensives, ballet competitions, full-time and postgraduate training, health and wellness, boys in ballet and more. Hear valuable advice from leading professionals across the ballet world to help your dancer make the most informed decisions about their unique training path. Learn more at www.ballethelpdesk.com.

#NoThirds: Bullying in Ballet: The Lobby, the Queen Bee & You 02/26/2026

Elena Kunikova on Teaching, Training, and the Art of Ballet 02/25/2026

#NoThirds: Bullying in Ballet: Addressing Weight Comments and Abusive Language in Ballet Training 02/19/2026

#NoThirds: Bullying in Ballet: Addressing Weight Comments and Abusive Language in Ballet Training In part three of our bullying series, we tackle some of the toughest conversations ballet parents face: what to do when teachers make harmful comments about weight, body image, or use abusive language in class. Psychotherapist Kelsey Fyffe and educator Suzette Takei give parents the exact roadmap for addressing these issues at ballet schools and pre-professional programs. Kelsey, who specializes in eating disorders and works with Houston Ballet Academy, explains why pre-professional students should never be put on diets, what questions to ask about a studio's approach to body image, and how to tell the difference between giving corrections and promoting disordered eating. She shares specific language for approaching ballet teachers and administrators, starting with curiosity instead of accusations. We dig into the real fears ballet parents have about speaking up. Will your kid get blackballed from summer intensives or trainee programs? How do you know when to stay and when to run? Suzette and Kelsey walk through scenarios and discuss cultural and generational differences that can complicate conversations with non-native English speaking faculty. The episode covers handling abusive language from ballet instructors, including when teachers single out students in class. We talk about how bystander parents can step in even when it's not their kid being targeted, how to teach young dancers to set boundaries around body comments, and why building supportive lobby culture matters. Suzette and Kelsey also address why anxious, perfectionistic ballet students struggle to speak up and how therapy can help dancers build their mental toolkit before problems escalate. If you've ever felt paralyzed about confronting a problem at your ballet studio or pre-professional program, this episode gives you the questions to ask and the confidence to advocate for your child's physical and mental health. Links: Instagram: @ Facebook: TikTok: @ Music from #Uppbeat: License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI /episode/index/show/d5ebb2d6-a2c9-4d1a-9ae6-315a16e413b2/id/40110330

How Ballet Austin Built a Post-Grad Program That Actually Works 02/18/2026

Tights Under: Going Pro with LeeAnaca Moore and Natalie Bowman 02/11/2026

Lynne Charles on English National Ballet School's GAP Programme 02/04/2026

Encore: #NoThirds Mailbag with Fran Veyette (Extended Episode) 01/29/2026

CiCi Houston Sudholt on Saint Louis Ballet's Career Pipeline 01/28/2026

We Asked, You Answered: Survey Results and What's Changing 01/22/2026

Dancer Story: Jayda Hazelett on the College Route to Pro Dancer 01/21/2026

Paulo Arrais on Ballet Training That Honors the Whole Dancer 01/14/2026

Joshua Beamish & Crystal Costa: Ballet Vancouver 01/07/2026

Peter Stark on the State of the Ballet Job Market: A Rerelease 12/31/2025

Jenny's Favorite Episode - Abbey's 1st Contract 12/26/2025

Raymond Rodriguez on Pittsburgh Ballet's Company Experience 12/24/2025

Raymond Rodriguez on Pittsburgh Ballet's Company Experience Raymond Rodriguez, Dean of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School, breaks down their Company Experience program and why they created it. Unlike traditional summer intensives, the Company Experience simulates professional dancer life through repertoire-heavy training and direct interaction with Pittsburgh Ballet's artistic staff. Raymond explains what a typical day looks like, the types of choreography students work on, and who mentors participants throughout the program. The conversation covers how the program helps dancers understand company realities, what discussions happen around professional life expectations, and who should consider attending. Raymond also addresses opportunities for students to be observed by artistic staff and how often participants transition into Pittsburgh Ballet's postgraduate levels or main company. He shares what sets Pittsburgh Ballet's approach apart from similar company experience programs and offers guidance on whether this type of specialized training is the right next step. If you're considering programs that go beyond traditional technique-focused intensives, this episode explains how Pittsburgh Ballet prepares dancers for professional life. Links: Instagram: @ Facebook: TikTok: Music from #Uppbeat: License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI Takeways The Pittsburgh Summer Company Experience started in 2014 with 30 students. The program has grown to accommodate around 70 students, split into cohorts. Students learn a mix of classical, contemporary, and new works during the program. The daily schedule mirrors that of professional company artists, with extensive rehearsal hours. Auditions are held on the first day to determine casting for the performances. The program emphasizes the importance of versatility in dance training. Students are encouraged to support each other in learning choreography. Eligibility is limited to students aged 16 and older, based on their readiness. The program offers opportunities for students to be seen by artistic directors for potential contracts. PBT's program is designed to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for dancers. /episode/index/show/d5ebb2d6-a2c9-4d1a-9ae6-315a16e413b2/id/39462625

How Philadelphia Ballet Does Summer: Three Unique Programs 12/19/2025

Durante Verzola on Miami City Ballet's Choreo Workshop 12/17/2025

Durante Verzola on Miami City Ballet's Choreo Workshop Durante Verzola, resident choreographer for Miami City Ballet School, breaks down their Summer Choreographic Workshop, a specialized program that simulates professional dancer life for students as young as 14. Unlike traditional summer intensives, this program focuses on preparing dancers for the quick turnaround and varied repertory demands of company life. Durante explains why they created a separate choreographic track, how company artistic staff are involved, and what types of mentors and choreographers work with participants. The conversation covers the balance between new and existing works, whether students learn to choreograph themselves, and what the final performance looks like. Durante discusses why younger dancers benefit from this experience, how often participants transition into Miami City Ballet's year-round program, and what common growth areas he observes. He also addresses why specialized programs like this are growing in popularity and what sets Miami City Ballet's approach apart from similar workshops. If you're considering programs that go beyond traditional technique training, this episode explains what makes the choreographic workshop format valuable for pre-professional dancers. Learn more on the MCBS . Links: Instagram: @ Facebook: TikTok: Takeaways The Choreographic Intensive is a two-week program at Miami City Ballet School. The program aims to develop students' artistry and professional skills. Students experience a daily routine similar to that of professional dancers. Artistry is emphasized alongside technical training in ballet. The program includes creating original works specifically for the students. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their choreography. Performance opportunities are crucial for developing confidence and skills. The program fosters a supportive environment for students to grow. Choreography is created in response to the dancers in the moment. The intensive prepares students for the realities of a professional dance career. Music from #Uppbeat: License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI /episode/index/show/d5ebb2d6-a2c9-4d1a-9ae6-315a16e413b2/id/39434560

Kansas City Ballet's Summer ChoreoLab for Makers & Movers 12/12/2025

Kansas City Ballet's Summer ChoreoLab for Makers & Movers Oliver Till, Artistic Director of Kansas City Ballet School, walks us through ChoreoLab, their unique summer program that pairs aspiring dancers with emerging choreographers. The program runs two tracks: Movers (dancers 17+) and Makers (choreographers 18-24). Instead of traditional technique classes, participants collaborate on original work, learning about lighting, costume design, and tech rehearsals along the way. The focus is on the creative process, not just the final product, with dancers exploring new movement styles they wouldn't encounter in standard training. Oliver explains the application process, including in-person auditions for dancers and portfolio-based selection for choreographers. He discusses why the program culminates in a ticketed performance to raise the stakes, and how they've incorporated mindfulness sessions to support mental well-being during the intensive creative process. If you're interested in choreography, want to understand how professional work gets made, or are looking for a summer program that goes beyond technique, this episode breaks down what makes ChoreoLab different. Links: Instagram: @ Facebook: TikTok: Music from #Uppbeat: License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI Takeaways: The Mover track is for aspiring dancers aged 17 and up. The Maker track is for aspiring choreographers aged 18 to 24. The program emphasizes collaboration between dancers and choreographers. Participants learn about lighting, costume design, and tech rehearsals. The focus is on the process of creation rather than just the final product. Dancers are encouraged to explore new movement styles and techniques. The application process includes in-person auditions for movers. Makers are selected based on their choreographic ideas and experience. The culmination performance is a ticketed event to enhance accountability. Mindfulness sessions are introduced to support dancers' mental well-being. /episode/index/show/d5ebb2d6-a2c9-4d1a-9ae6-315a16e413b2/id/39349780

Colorado Ballet Gets Creative: Two Unique Summer Programs 12/10/2025

Colorado Ballet Gets Creative: Two Unique Summer Programs Erica Fischbach and Sean Omandam from Colorado Ballet Academy break down two of their specialized summer programs: the Choreographic Workshop and the Young Dancer Intensive. The Choreographic Workshop immerses older students in a professional-style setting where they learn to pick up choreography quickly, work with mentors, and develop their artistic voice. Artist talks expose participants to what life is like as a professional ballet dancer. The location? You'll want to hear where this program takes place -- it's an environment that enhances creativity in a way most studios can't match! The Young Dancer Intensive is designed for younger students, balancing quality training with fun activities outside the studio. What sets it apart? It's one of the only programs like it that offers housing where parents and kids can stay together, providing comfort and support for younger dancers taking their first step into intensive training. Learn more about these ballet summer intensives on their : Links: Instagram: @ Facebook: TikTok: Music from #Uppbeat: License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI Takeaways: The Choreographic Workshop lets students experience what it's like to be a professional ballet dancer. The location of the Choreographic Workshop provides a unique and inspiring environment for creativity. Mentorship is a key component of the programs. Students learn to pick up choreography quickly, simulating a professional setting. Artist talks provide insights into various career paths in dance. The Young Dancer Intensive is designed for younger students, focusing on fun and quality training. Parents can accompany younger dancers, providing comfort and support. Activities outside of dance enhance the overall experience for students. Both programs emphasize both technical skills and artistic expression. Students leave with a stronger sense of self and confidence. /episode/index/show/d5ebb2d6-a2c9-4d1a-9ae6-315a16e413b2/id/39348325

Washington School of Ballet's Summer Repertory Programs 12/03/2025

Washington School of Ballet's Summer Repertory Programs Before you listen, please consider taking our to help us improve what we do: Katie Sopoci Drake and Zoica Tovar from the Washington School of Ballet break down their Junior and Senior Repertory Week programs in this episode. The two programs serve different levels of dancers, and our guests explain how each one works and what participants can expect. They discuss the school's teaching methods, how they work with different learning styles, and what it takes to move from student training to professional dancing. The conversation covers mentorship structures, choreography opportunities for participants, and performance requirements at each level. Katie and Zoica also share what traits they look for in successful dancers and how artistic director Edwaard Liang's involvement shapes the training experience. If you're researching summer intensives or want to understand how pre-professional ballet training works, this episode provides a practical look at what happens during these programs and why the school structures them the way they do. Learn more about The Washington School of Ballet's here: Takeaways: The Junior Repertory Experience is designed for aspiring dancers aged 12-17. The Senior Repertory Experience mirrors a company training week for dancers aged 15-22. Both programs culminate in a performance for family and friends. Edwaard Liang's involvement enhances the quality of training and choreography. Dancers learn to adapt quickly to different styles and choreographers. The programs focus on building stamina, artistry, and technical skills. Students are encouraged to ask questions about their future careers. Choreography and composition classes are integral to the training. The audition process is open to video submissions. The programs aim to develop well-rounded artists, not just professional dancers. Links: : Instagram: @ Facebook: TikTok: Music from #Uppbeat: License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI /episode/index/show/d5ebb2d6-a2c9-4d1a-9ae6-315a16e413b2/id/39189120

How to Approach Audition Season Like a Pro with Jess Spinner 11/26/2025

#NoThirds: Bullying In Ballet - What Parents Need To Know (Part 2) 11/20/2025

#NoThirds: Bullying In Ballet - What Parents Need To Know (Part 2) Before you listen, please consider taking our so we can continue improving the show. Link: In Part 2 of our #NoThirds series on bullying in ballet, we dig deeper into accountability, emotional health, and what it actually looks like to navigate harmful dynamics inside dance environments. Our guests explore how parents, students, and schools can recognize the signs of toxic training, respond to concerning behavior, and create space for honest conversations about what dancers are experiencing. As we address listener questions, we discuss the importance of listening closely to children, understanding the emotions behind their reactions, and knowing when a parent needs to step in. We also look at how communication with school leadership can resolve issues, why empowering dancers to speak up matters, and how consistent check-ins at home help identify problems early. The episode touches on the influence of social media and the value of reviews in pushing programs to improve. Part 2 continues the conversation parents and dancers need right now. Learn more about : https://www.livemindfullypsychotherapy.com/dancers-athletes Interested in working with Fran at Veyette Virtual Ballet School? Check out our Back to Dance Guide for an https://ballethelpdesk.com/backtoschool/ Links: : https://ballethelpdesk.com/backtoschool/ : https://ballethelpdesk.com/corrections-journals/ : https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=JBTG3G2W77EJ8 Instagram: @ Facebook: Key Takeaways • Accountability is essential for healthy dance environments • Understanding a child’s behavior helps address bullying • Open conversations about feelings support emotional awareness • Toxic training situations can affect long-term mental health • Parents need to recognize when intervention is needed • Communication with school administration is part of the solution • Parents should stay proactive in protecting their child’s well-being • Encouraging dancers to use their voices can reduce bullying • Regular check-ins at home help identify problems early • Reviews and feedback can drive meaningful change in schools Music from #Uppbeat: License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI /episode/index/show/d5ebb2d6-a2c9-4d1a-9ae6-315a16e413b2/id/39071330

#NoThirds: Bullying In Ballet - What Parents Need To Know (Part 1) 11/19/2025

Part 2: The Nutcracker That Almost Wasn't 11/13/2025

How Troy Schumacher Saved Nutcracker 11/12/2025

#NoThirds with Fran Veyette - The Myth of the Perfect Ballet Path (Part 2) 11/06/2025

Rewriting the Ballet Rulebook: Avant Chamber Ballet 11/05/2025

#NoThirds with Fran Veyette - The Myth of the Perfect Ballet Path (Part 1) 10/30/2025

Oğulcan Borova: Training At Joffrey’s Grainger Academy 10/29/2025

Making Ballet Belong: The Ballet Memphis Approach 10/22/2025

Ballet Help Desk

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