Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Blake.
Hi Julie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up training in the Washington D.C. area, and later continued with the Houston Ballet on full scholarship and stipend. From there I danced professionally with The Hartford Ballet, Montgomery Ballet, Nevada Ballet Theater, and finally The Minnesota Ballet.
Once I started my own family, I transitioned into teaching Ballet full time. First with the Reif Center in Grand Rapids, MN and then moved to Rochester in 2012, and have been teaching the local students here ever since.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road, but it has been rewarding nonetheless. Much of what I teach my students is that there is no such thing as a success only path in life. You will struggle, and have obstacles, but as long as you can learn from those experiences, you’ll do well.
I believe that getting kids to understand this, especially at a young age, serves them well as they grow into young adults. Failure is only a stepping stone to success!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Having had the intense training that I had, and professional career certainly helps in ensuring students are taught correctly. What I find the most enjoyable is when a student applies the corrections and finds success as a result, there is no better feeling. Seeing their excitement and joy is such a pleasure.
What’s next?
My plan is to continue providing quality instruction here in the Rochester community. I have had the privilege of getting to know so many students, and their families for well over a decade, and in many ways they’re all family to me. Being a part of their lives, and helping each student to be the best dancer and person that they can be, has been a tremendous honor.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.balletofrochester.com
