The Monthly interviews local ballet dancer, Rachel Neale – Part 2 – A career in ballet

Do you produce your own material?

During my training, I choreographed a few pieces for assignments and small performances, but I am currently choreographing for local and school dance teams for upcoming competitions in the next few months.

In terms of choreographing any larger pieces, I would certainly be interested and looking into developing existing projects such as tv and films into ballets. However, this would be further along the line in my career once I retire from performing and gain more experience.

What are your aims for the future?

As I am currently living one of my biggest dreams already, I like to be present in my current situation, however given the nature of the industry I am always looking ahead to what’s next for me and my career. I would certainly be interested in joining or touring with an international ballet company and working on new projects as well as performing the classics.

Another aim of mine would be to join a West-End or another international touring company as there are so many incredible shows I would love to be a part of. Honestly, as long as I am performing on a stage bringing live theatre to people and working within the industry, I will be extremely fulfilled and happy!

Where to now?

I am currently performing with the international touring company of The Phantom of the Opera as a dancer in the Paris Opera Corps de Ballet. We are halfway through our Middle-Eastern tour which started in September 2023 when we made history as the first musical to be brought to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We performed in the capital Riyadh for 3 months which was one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences for me.

I hadn’t realized the impact our presence had as professional performers on the growing arts industry in the middle east and seeing positive, emotional reactions from our audiences really solidified my love and passion for the art form I am lucky enough to call my full-time job.

Our next stop is performing in Dubai, UAE at the famous Dubai Opera for 3 weeks before we fly to Bulgaria to kick off our European leg of the tour! I am extremely grateful for the wonderful cast and crew I get to travel the world with and what exciting opportunities lie ahead for me in my dancing career

Dubai Opera House
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