Skylar Campbell, who was a principal dancer with the National Ballet of Canada until 2021 and currently serves as a principal at Houston Ballet, answered various ballet-related questions.
- Was the position of principal dancer in a ballet company your goal or a starting point?
Becoming a principal was indeed an honor and a goal achieved, but as a ballet dancer, there is no ultimate destination for me. I continue to strive for self-improvement, aiming for higher ranks in my career.
- How much time does it take to learn a ballet piece, and how long does it take to prepare for a performance?
Typically, ballet dancers spend 3-4 months rehearsing multiple ballet pieces simultaneously for a stage performance. While the exact time to master ballet movements varies, a rough estimate is around one hour of rehearsal for every minute of choreography.
- How do you learn the art of ballet performance?
There is no specific method, but dancers often develop the storyline and nuances of a ballet piece through explanations and choreographed steps in rehearsals. There are no special coaching classes; instead, I incorporate my own senses, experiences, and character into each dance, following a natural progression.
The difficulty of being a principal dancer lies in the constant demand to deliver the best performance possible at all times.
I visit your clinic regularly because Dr. Aoshima (Tad) provides unique insights into how to care for and understand my body. His 30 years of experience serve as a vigilant guide, addressing issues I may not be aware of and preventing them proactively. Tad's straightforward methods of assessing and improving the body are unparalleled, making regular visits essential. His teaching emphasizes that painful points may not always be the problem but finding and resolving the underlying causes is crucial. Out of curiosity, I did try it once. However, I haven't attempted it again. After trying pointe shoes, I gained a deep appreciation for the incredible physical demands female ballerinas face, and I now admire them with the utmost respect. Dancing in pointe shoes involves physical strains beyond imagination.
What do you do when you're not dancing?
I spend quality time with my beloved wife, friends, and my dog.
Did you sacrifice anything to become a ballet dancer?
I didn't have the time to pursue university studies. However, I believe it's never too late for college, even after a ballet career.