Ballet 'bootcamp' for boys

The National Theatre Ballet School in St Kilda in Melbourne is holding a special "Bootcamp" for male dancers during the school holidays.

An all-day intensive from 9am to 4.30pm on September 19, the Bootcamp for Aspiring Young Ballet Boys is led by the the National Ballet School Artistic Director and former San Francisco Ballet Principal Artist, Damian Smith. It will include lessons on body strengthening, classical male variations from much-loved ballets, stretch and conditioning classes, and the essential pas de deux class for boys partnering.

Smith says he is thrilled at the prospect of sharing the invaluable wisdom he has acquired over 24 years as a professional male dancer and a devoted dance partner.

“Being a successful dancer goes far beyond physical prowess; it demands an intertwining of qualities that transcend the confines of the stage," he says. “To be a remarkable partner, one must establish a foundation of trust, engage in open and meaningful communication, and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the art form. I look forward to sharing some of my experience with the next generation of male ballet stars.”

Smith joined the National Ballet School as Artistic Director in 2019, bringing with him more than 25 years international experience as a guest artist with companies such as the Boston Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Hong Kong Ballet, Hamburg Ballet, Ballet Du Nord, New York City Ballet and 18 years as Principal Dancer with the highly acclaimed San Francisco Ballet.

Ballet Bootcamp is for boys aged 12-18 years. Course fee: $190

To find out more, just go here.