About Me
Welcome to my website! My name is Kealan, and I am a male ballet dancer. I have been passionate about dance since I was a young boy, and I have been fortunate enough to pursue that passion as a professional dancer.
FAQ #1: When did you start dancing?
When I was still in diapers, before I could walk, I would hold the side of our coffee table and shake my booty to the Jeopardy theme song every night (thanks Alex Trebek). And yes, that’s still my go-to dance move.
My journey as a dancer began at 6 years old at a local dance school, where I was the only boy. I did NOT like having to dance with a room full of girls every Saturday (because cooties, obviously) but I knew I needed to keep coming back. A few months later I was accepted into Canada’s National Ballet School, eventually joining their full-time program and completing the majority of my training there.
FAQ #2: What kinds of challenges did you face in becoming a ballet dancer?
I had to leave the school for a year to get surgery on both my feet. I had to live away from my family for a time. Early on I experienced bullying. Ballet is a very challenging career, but it was all worth it and I learned so much from those experiences.
As a professional ballet dancer I have been able to perform a variety of styles around the world. I strive to perfect my technique, while also bringing joy to the audiences and interpreting each role as authentically as I can. Whether I am dancing the classics or exploring new choreography, I approach every role with passion, dedication, and a desire to create something truly special.
In addition to performing on stage, I also love sharing my knowledge and experience with others. I have taught ballet to students of all ages and levels, and I find great joy in helping others discover the beauty of dance. In my coaching I work with individuals, couples, and groups to supercharge their potential and achieve quicker results. As a personal trainer I identify areas that need extra attention and provide cross-training options to amplify the work in the studio.
In my life I have been fortunate to meet the right people at the right time who have helped me achieve my crazy dream of being a principal dancer. Whether you want a career on stage or are just looking to learn about dance or stay in shape, I want to help you on your journey.
FAQ #3: What is your favourite thing about performing?
My favourite thing about performing is the immediate feedback and energy you receive from the audience. There is a unique and electric atmosphere that comes from being on stage, under the lights, hearing the music. It is a powerful feeling; time slows, the thoughts quiet down, and it becomes all about this moment. No two performances are the same, so you have to stay present.
FAQ #4: Do ballet dancers train outside the studio?
Yes, many ballet dancers train outside of the studio to complement their in-studio training and improve their overall fitness, strength, and flexibility. Cross-training, endurance work, and specifically designed programs are all great ways to build the strength and conditioning a dancer needs while also letting the body avoid repeating the same biomechanical movements we train so hard in the studio.