Insights from  Ballet professionals

Former ballet dancer, Jennifer Quent, retired at 22 to explore other interests. She studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology and held roles such as the Chief of Staff for Guggenheim Partners and now a manager at Marcum’s Family Office division. She attributes her business success to her discipline and adaptability as a dancer, and advises dancers to educate themselves in other fields and pursue a degree while dancing.

Maria Seletskaja transitioned from ballet to conducting, starting as a dancer with the Estonian National Opera in 2003. Over 15 seasons, she danced with European ballet companies while nurturing her passion for music. Her conducting interest grew at Staatsoper Berlin, leading to music theory and conducting studies. Maria's journey highlights the importance of curiosity, trusting one's instincts, and embracing change while honoring the past, demonstrating the potential for successful career transitions across diverse fields.

Former Staatsballett Berlin dancer, Caroline Bird, transitioned to digital communications at Beiersdorf, a leading skincare corporation. Despite challenges like company leadership change and securing her first non-ballet job, her resilience, passion, and discipline proved valuable in her new career.

Sophie Mayoux, a former Paris Opera Ballet dancer, transitioned from ballet to yoga teaching in Dharamshala, India. At 25, she took a sabbatical, traveling extensively. Realizing her waning passion for ballet, she quit and pursued yoga as a new career. Now in Dharamshala, Sophie teaches yoga and plans an online platform. Her future goals include creating a space for travelers and yoga enthusiasts. Sophie advises transitioning dancers to take time for self-discovery, be patient, and embrace risks in pursuing their dreams.

Ellen Warren, a former ballet dancer, became a costume designer and developed a custom-fit sizing and construction method for leotards. She launched her own leotard brand, Louise Apparel, and plans to expand into one-piece swimwear in 2021.

New Zealand-born choreographer and filmmaker, Corey Baker, moved from ballet training to owning his own dance company. After rejection from New Zealand School of Dance, he trained in Sydney, leading to opportunities in Europe. His choreography career flourished in the U.K., where he balanced dancing, teaching, and choreographing before focusing solely on choreography. Corey's work tackles activism and innovation, addressing climate change and pushing ballet and art boundaries.

Professional ballet dancer, Mia Heathcote, outlines her journey from a ballet family to the Queensland Ballet. Despite pressures, she pursued ballet due to her passion for it. She faced anxiety, self-doubt, and injuries, but prioritized health and personal growth. She highlights trusting instincts, embracing discomfort, and continuous learning in her career.

Kristina Lind, a principal dancer with the Bayerisches Staatsballett, shares her journey from the San Francisco Ballet to the Dutch National Ballet, and finally to Munich. She discusses the challenges she faced, including her height and body type, and the struggle to find her "fit" in the ballet world. Lind emphasizes the importance of self-validation and internal growth, and how her shift in mindset led to her success. She also discusses the differences between dancing in the U.S. and Europe, highlighting the greater stability and respect for ballet in Europe. Lind hopes to continue growing as an artist, inspire others, and share her knowledge with the next generation.

Charlotte Edmonds, a talented choreographer, received her first commission at sixteen and has created many works. She has studied at top ballet schools and worked with famous companies. Her recent projects include exploring dance and dyslexia, making a short film about depression, and directing and choreographing a new dance film.

Lauren Paton-Williams transitioned from professional ballet to co-owning The Mews Bridal after a knee injury. Her five-year dance career with prestigious companies influenced her new role in her mother's bridal business. Lauren expanded the business to London, incorporating French design influences. Her ballet background contributes to her work ethic and adaptability, offering insights for dancers considering career changes and highlighting opportunities beyond ballet.