Today we’d like to introduce you to Manon Bal.
Hi Manon, 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 was born in Marseille, France. I started dancing when I was 5 years old, and I never stopped since that. I studied Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, and Belly Dancing at La Maison de Réjane, directed by Réjane Losno. In 2013, I moved to Paris to attend the Institute de Formation Professionnelle Rick Odums. I was trained in Ballet, Jazz, Horton, and Graham and danced as a soloist in Les Jeunes Ballet Jazz Rick Odums and Idée France Company. In 2015, after attending a week summer intensive, I auditioned for the Alvin Ailey School and got accepted. I moved to New York City and did the Independent Study Program from 2015-2016.
By the end of the program, I auditioned to perform for the Ailey School Spring Concert and got selected by choreographer Ephrat Asherie. Since then, I’ve been a part of Ephrat Asherie Dance as a principal dancer. The company has been touring around the US. I got the chance to perform in the most prestigious venues, such as New York city center, the Joyce theater, the Guggenheim, Lincoln Center, Jacob’s Pillow, and more.
I’ve been a part of various dance companies and projects.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been always easy, a road full of ups and downs. It requires a lot of dedication and a strong mental. You have to be confronted with constant judgements. Despite the struggles, the key is to never give up, stay confident & yourself.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve always been really curious and wanted to explore different styles, histories, experiences. I’m a very versatile professional dancer. I started with Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, and Belly Dancing, then also trained in some modern techniques such as Horton and Graham. In parallel, as a teenager, I started to learn Popping and Hip Hop after seeing a show with the 2 legends: Popin Pete & Mr. Wiggles. Moving to New York City, I fell in love with street & social dances and NYC Club culture. All these styles make the dancer I’m today.
I’m really proud of my journey. Today, I can say that I did perform in my dream venues.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My advice to find a mentor or networking: Be yourself, be open & social. I crossed paths with the right persons at the right time. I’m very thankful to everyone who helped me to realize my dream and contribute to the dancer & human I am today.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: manonbaldance
Image Credits
Janine Micheletti
Robert Altman
