Navigating Ballet Training as an Adult | Finding a Home at the Barre interview with Dennis
This week, we sit down with Dennis to hear his inspiring journey into the ballet world. Starting from humble beginnings with YouTube videos, Dennis opens up about the challenges he faced—feeling like an outsider, encountering unreliable teachers, and coming close to quitting ballet altogether. Everything changed when he discovered Julie’s class, where he's been dancing consistently for the past eight years.
Together, we explore the life-changing benefits of ballet for adults, including improved memory, stamina, and balance, and emphasize that it’s never too late to grow and thrive in dance.
✨ Plus, don’t miss Julie’s secret for staying energized and positive in every class—spoiler: it’s a game-changer!
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53:14
Why do Adults Love Ballet So Much? Ballet Teachers Discuss?
This week on Broche Banter, we’re thrilled to chat with Bianca Starr, who’s been dedicated to teaching adults since 2010—defying the naysayers who said she could never make a living from this!
Join us for fun, touching, and insightful moments as we explore topics like creating safe spaces for body and soul, and the importance of structure when giving feedback. We also dive deeply into the true essence of ballet.
Spoilers: It’s not about high legs or big jumps. It’s about presence.Also, Bianca reminds us that the essence of ballet is available to everyone. Everyone.
If you’d like to work with Bianca, don’t miss "Ballet by the Beach" retreat in California (May 2025), just ahead of the legendary IABF in Florida
➡️https://www.biancalily.com/beachballet.html
➡️https://www.internationaladultballetfestival.com/
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49:59
Professional Pianist Speaks: Follow your Passion
Music takes center stage in this week’s episode as we welcome the talented Bruno Raco to the show! A professional musician from Italy with over 20 years of experience, Bruno has been steeped in the world of music since childhood. While other kids played with toys, Bruno’s favorite “toy” was a piano—and it sparked a lifelong passion.
In this episode, we dive into his journey: from navigating the challenges of becoming a professional musician to the art of playing live for ballet classes every day. We’ll chat about talent, perfect pitch, and why figuring out where your phone’s ringtone is coming from can sometimes feel like a brain teaser.
Get ready to fall in love with music all over again as we explore the harmony between artistry and discipline in Bruno’s extraordinary career.
🎵 Listen now: https://brunoraco-balletclassmusic.bandcamp.com/music
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1:13:07
Ballet is in her DNA! Tenacity, Obstacles and Nutcracker Dreams with Catie
In this episode, we delve into the inspiring story of Catie Wells,
whose ballet journey is a testament to the power of tenacity and
passion.
Catie opens up about her childhood struggles with intimidating
ballet classes and how The Nutcracker suddenly ignited her love for
dance.
Unfortunately, health challenges forced her to pause and
explore horseback riding instead.
Yet, her love for ballet never faded
and in her 20s, she returned to the barre. Today, she not only
performs but also teaches, sharing her love for dance with others.
Listen as Catie compares the experience of learning ballet and
horseback riding as a child versus an adult.
Her passion and unwavering dedication will leave you inspired to pursue your own dreams—no matter the obstacles.
After all, ballet is magical, and Nutcracker dreams really can come true!
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1:00:24
Taking Up Space & being Unapologetically Yourself: Ballet, Body Image, and Embracing Your Worth
TW: Eating Disorders
In this heartfelt episode, we’re joined by Grace—dancer, dance photographer, and advocate for self-compassion. Starting her ballet journey as a young adult, Grace now finds joy in jazz, lyrical contemporary, and ballet, using dance as a source of structure, focus, and self-care.
Grace opens up about her experiences with body image and eating disorders, sharing how ballet has taught her to value her body and build confidence. Together, we explore the emotional and technical aspects of dance, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces for dancers at every level and age.
Whether you’re a dancer or simply seeking inspiration, Grace’s story is a powerful reminder to take up space unapologetically and embrace your worth.
Watch Grace perform:
https://app.brocheballetonline.com/m/PgMovdA5
https://app.brocheballetonline.com/m/p23o7qsU
Get in touch with Grace and her fabulous teachers:
https://www.gracepictures.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/gracepicturesuk
https://www.instagram.com/karenestabrook/
https://www.instagram.com/kathrynsiandance/
https://www.instagram.com/ebufferd/
Listen to Broche Banter | Adult ballet training, philosophy, & inspiration, Fantasy Fangirls and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
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