Misty Copeland launches new season of Why Dance Matters podcast

The Royal Academy of Dance has launched series nine of its podcast, Why Dance Matters. Featuring on the slate are a set of pioneering figures from the dance world hailing from Canada to Australia and many places in between.

The series begins with the American Ballet Theater’s first black principal dancer, Misty Copeland, fresh from the debut of her short film Flowers and creation of her charitable foundation. The second episode sees legendary Canadian performer Crazy Smooth discuss how he brought street dance into a professional theatre setting ahead of his three-show run at the Southbank Centre starting July 18.

Next, performance psychologist Britt Tajet-Foxell offers a peek behind the curtain of what it takes to foster positive mindsets in the ballet world. Then we hear from Mike Wayama, who has taken RAD ballet to Nairobi and shares his stories on mentorship and teaching in challenging environments.

Birmingham Royal Ballet dancer Eilis Small joins David Jays to discuss her Australian origins and next steps. Fresh off a critically acclaimed show at the Birmingham Hippodrome, Aakash Odedra opens up on his creative process and burgeoning production company.

Speaking on the launch of series nine, host David Jays says: “We are delighted to release another season of Why Dance Matters with a selection of extraordinary guests. I am excited to share our conversations with figures from the dance world and beyond, including the trail-blazing Misty Copeland and the acclaimed choreographer Aakash Odedra. Do join us on all platforms for advice, insight and storytelling from all corners of the dance world!”

Why Dance Matters is available across all major steaming platforms. Visit RAD’s podcast page to find out more: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/podcast/

Misty Copeland, Image credit Henry Leutwyler