Welcome to our new Ballet Without Borders Ambassador Paul! Paul was a soloist with The Australian Ballet before embarking an international career. He is now ballet master with The Australian Ballet.
1. In 4 words, what does ballet mean to you?
Freedom, Expression, Life, Art.
2. What would be your favourite ballet to dance?
My favourite ballet to dance would be anything by Jirí Kylián or William Forsythe. Their innovative choreography and unique styles allow for incredible expression and movement, making each piece a thrilling experience.
3. Do you believe that ballet is a readily accessible art form?
Ballet can be a challenging art form to access for many due to factors like cost, location, and cultural perceptions. While there are efforts to make ballet more inclusive through community programs and outreach, traditional performances often remain limited to specific audiences. However, with the rise of digital platforms and online classes, ballet is becoming more accessible to a wider audience, allowing more people to experience and engage with this beautiful art form. Organisations like Ballet Without Borders are actively addressing these issues, helping to raise awareness and support initiatives that make ballet more accessible to everyone. This progress is encouraging, as it brings the art form to a broader audience and fosters greater appreciation for its beauty and significance.
4. What do you believe is a typical misconception about ballet that you would like to set straight?
A common misconception about ballet that I would like to address is the belief that dance isn’t for boys and that all male ballet dancers are gay. Ballet is an inclusive art form that welcomes individuals of all genders and identities. Male dancers contribute incredible strength, athleticism, grace, and artistry to the stage, enriching the dance community. It’s important to recognise that passion for dance transcends gender norms, and the talent and dedication of all dancers, regardless of how they identify, should be celebrated without stereotypes.
5. What are you reading right now?
Right now, I'm reading "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life." It's a fascinating exploration of finding purpose and balance, emphasising the importance of passion, mission, vocation, and profession in achieving a fulfilling life. The insights into Japanese culture and the concept of ikigai itself have been both inspiring and thought-provoking.
6. One thing that most people don't know about you?
One thing that most people don't know about me is that I am also an established artist, with my paintings displayed and sold in galleries across Australia and the USA. This passion for art has allowed me to express myself creatively and connect with a wider audience through my work. Although I haven’t painted for a while now, it's another outlet of my creativity that I love to explore; it's like dancing, but with a brush and a different palette of colour.
7. Why is the work of Ballet Without Borders so important?
Ballet Without Borders is essential in making ballet a welcoming and accessible art form for everyone. By breaking down barriers that often keep marginalised communities from participating, they open doors to new possibilities in dance. Through education, training, and exposure, they cultivate a vibrant and diverse dance community.
What’s truly special is their focus on cultural exchange and collaboration, inviting dancers from all walks of life to share their unique stories and perspectives. This enriches the beauty of ballet and creates an environment where every dancer can thrive. Their work reminds us that ballet is a universal art form, meant to be embraced and celebrated by all.
8. Favourite ballet to watch?
My favourite ballet to watch is "Manon" because it masterfully combines a compelling narrative of tragic love and character depth with stunning choreography, lush music, and exquisite production, creating an emotionally immersive experience that captivates audiences.
9. If you could go back to a point in time in your life, what advice would you give yourself?
If I could go back to a point in time in my life, I would tell myself: "Be bold! Be brave! Be you! Embrace your uniqueness because you, as you are, are enough." This reminder would encourage me to pursue my passions without fear and to trust in my own worth.
10. You have been given an elephant! You cannot sell it or give it away, what do you do?
If I were given an elephant and couldn't sell or give it away, my first step would be to build a wildlife sanctuary specifically designed to provide it with the best possible life.