Meet Lucas Jervies

Lucas Jervies is Contemporary Teacher at the Australian Ballet School.

How long have you been teaching?

As a professional dancer and choreographer, I always had an interest in teaching and in the exchange. I first leaned into teaching 14 years ago in Europe, towards the end of my dancing career. Back then it was an enjoyable and fulfilling way to contribute to dance beyond my own performances, and a great way to stay in the studio surrounded by dancers. I'm now in my fourth year as a full-time teacher, teaching contemporary at the Australian Ballet School. I love that I get to play a part in nurturing creativity, community and dance as a collective experience.

What drew you to teaching dance?

I wanted to share in a fun way the “tricks of the trade,” so to speak, to help break down the hierarchical limitations of traditional student-teacher relationships in the studio. I believe it’s crucial to focus on holistic practice rather than just rules that someone created a long time ago.

Do you specialise in a particular age group?

The bulk of my job is to teach students at the equivalent of year 11 and 12. In these two years, dancers really start to get it; it starts to sinks in, and they are able to critique and think laterally. These years are also crucial for cultivating collaboration. I focus on creating a studio environment where students feel comfortable exchanging ideas and working together. This nurtures a creative community and supports my belief that dance is a collective experience, not just an individual pursuit. This is where real change occurs and what I nurture. And I myself strive to improve.

How do you balance the importance of technique with the importance of artistry in your students?

I don’t separate the concepts. They are one and the same.

What is the most rewarding part of teaching dance?

It’s the journey. This year’s graduating students are the first cohort I’ve coached through from Level 5. As much as I love sharing the studio with them, it gives me real joy knowing these intelligent, optimistic people are stepping into the industry. I can’t wait to follow their careers and watch the changes they will make.

What is the best quality a teacher can bring to the classroom?

Vulnerability.

What has changed since you were a student?

At the Australian Ballet School, we value person first dancer second. This is a philosophy that is maturing every day. A great example of this is how much conversation occurs in my classes. You’ll hear dancers sharing constructive feedback, being self-reflective, me sharing stories, and dancers sharing their stories. We start every lesson with a gratitude chat, a simple ritual that reminds us of the bigger picture. With this approach, students feel more respected, which deepens their connection to their own artistry and to each other.

What advice would you give your students if they decide on a teaching career?

Make offers, share, and learn.

If you had to choose one main line of advice to pass on to your pupils, what would it be?

Some things I say in the studio: This is a shared space. Rules are just made-up things. What is considered good or bad is often determined by the opinions of just a few individuals. Don’t let the celebration of another person’s art diminish your own. Find joy in dancing. When in doubt, do what Beyonce says and go “to the left, to the left!”