Ja'Malik stepped into the role of Artistic Director at Madison Ballet in 2022, never anticipating the whirlwind ahead. Just six months in, he also took on Executive Director responsibilities, balancing artistic vision with the demanding realities of organizational leadership.

“I put in 90+ hours a week,” he reveals, navigating company classes, rehearsals, choreography, and countless fundraising meetings — the often unseen but vital work behind sustaining a ballet company.

Driven by his commitment to representation and artistic evolution, Ja'Malik draws on his experience growing up as a Black male dancer in classical ballet. He curates seasons that honor ballet’s rigorous technique while amplifying diverse voices, reflecting the communities they serve. Under his leadership, Madison Ballet expanded dancer employment from 13 to 31 weeks annually, enhancing both artistic growth and dancer wellbeing.

For aspiring dancers, Ja'Malik emphasizes time management, openness to varied choreographic styles, and the importance of mental balance. “Perfection does not exist,” he says, encouraging dancers to lighten up and enjoy the journey. His vision extends beyond performance to mentoring the next generation through initiatives like Ballet Boy Productions and dream projects bringing works by Ulysses Dove and Salvatore Aiello to Madison.

This episode pulls back the curtain on the realities of running a ballet company and offers invaluable insights into leadership, resilience, and the future of ballet.

www.madisonballet.com

In this episode, Amy Watson, Artistic Director of the Royal Danish Ballet, pulls back the curtain on her journey from California-born dancer to the helm of one of the world’s most storied companies. A former principal with RDB, Amy shares what her day-to-day looks like now: from morning rehearsals and dancer evaluations to shaping long-term artistic vision.

We talk about balancing the Bournonville legacy with contemporary innovation, the company’s structure and hiring practices, and how she’s reimagining the future while honoring its roots. Amy offers honest advice for young dancers on auditions, company culture, and mental health—and reflects on the moment a mentor first saw her potential as a future director.

With upcoming collaborations with Alexei Ratmansky and Akram Khan on the horizon, Amy gives us a glimpse into where RDB is headed and what it takes to lead with both tradition and transformation in mind.

Show notes:

RDB website: kglteater.dk/en/about-us/arts/the-royal-danish-ballet

Audition address- job.ballet@kglteater.dk