What Is The Main Lesson You Learnt From Your Fulltime Studies?
At Adelaide College of the Arts, I learnt that while technical skills are essential to developing a career, being a professional dancer extends far beyond technical ability.
My relationship with myself and my internal dialogue naturally inform the expression that emerges through my body. Resilience, curiosity, sensitivity, patience and my other personal qualities all shape my artistic practice.
Because our personal and artistic journeys are innately connected, I learnt that giving meaningful time and attention to who I am outside the studio, and beyond my identity as a dancer, was essential to how I worked inside it. This helped me navigate both the joys and hardships of training.
What Advice Would You Give To Someone Considering Full-Time Dance Studies At Adelaide College Of The Arts?
Listen deeply to your body. Full-time training exposes you to a great deal of physical information, as well as different methods, techniques and choreographic styles.
Notice what feels familiar or unfamiliar, what excites you, opens you up or sparks your curiosity, and what creates resistance. These responses are valuable information alongside the physical instruction you receive.
Developing this awareness will help you work with your body instead of against it, while remaining grounded during challenging periods.
Jazzy Williamson-Gray is an independent artist who recently completed a guest company engagement with Australian Dance Theatre.
Social Media: @jazzy.w.gray
Photography: Jonathan van der Knapp, @jvdkphoto