Toasting a new era for the Houston Ballet, Stanton Welch is celebrating his 20th anniversary with the company. As Artistic Director since July 2003, he welcomes newly appointed Julie Kent to the team as a second Artistic Director. We caught up with this dynamic duo to learn more about their love for ballet, what we can expect for the next season and more.
What first sparked your love for dance/the ballet?
JK: I don’t remember any time in my life when I didn’t know about ballet. My mom was not a professional dancer but loved and studied ballet. I started when I was old enough. I would put on my sister’s leotards and dance around. And then, when I was old enough, I would always point my feet. Whatever that meant. And then, I started ballet, and I think from there, it’s like anything you excel. It motivates you to want to do it more. And then it takes on a life of its own.
What would you say is the best part of the role?
SW: We talk about dancers a lot. There are other things that I love. Our audiences are engaged on stage. They laugh. Verbally responsive. Even with Nutcracker - when you hear the reactions or when the snow falls. That fills me with a desire to make things. You need to remember that you create this magic for someone that happened. To create that mystery and excitement
What do you most enjoy about working together?
JK: Sharing responsibility. It helps with the stress level because you feel like you are not climbing a mountain by yourself with nobody telling you that the view is good at the top. And nobody is telling you about the foothold at the bottom.
What are you most looking forward to for this next season?
SW: This whole crop of new cinderellas. These dancers have grown up watching this ballet. Giving them their chance to get into these lead roles is wonderful. It’s current.
How can the Houston community get involved in the work that Houston Ballet does?
JK: The Houston ballet sets Houston apart. Philanthropy is a point of pride for Houstonians, which speaks to the kind of people here. I’m super proud and feel very fortunate to be among them.
Photography by: PHOTOGRAPHED BY JULIE SOEFER
