“Don’t let doubts or fears hold you back. Trust that if you give your all, good things and results will eventually come your way.”
For ENBS student Jean Loup, ballet was not always the plan. Before discovering dance, he spent years focused on competitive swimming before later moving into water polo. It was only at the age of 14, after a visit to the theatre with his uncle to watch La Scala Ballet perform Gymnopédie, that everything changed.
“I was struck by the artistic side of the performance and the way the dancers beautifully complemented the music moving in unison with each other. It awakened something in me and made me want to be on stage one day.”
Although his sporting background helped him develop strength, stamina and endurance, Jean Loup quickly realised ballet required a different kind of discipline.
“Water polo helped me build cardio endurance and strength, but ballet is completely different. I had to work really hard on things like posture, ankle strength and learning how to use the floor properly for jumps and support.”
Now approaching the end of his training at English National Ballet School, Jean Loup reflects warmly on the support he has received throughout his time at ENBS.
“Both the artistic and academic staff here are incredibly supportive and reassuring, from the physios and teachers to the safeguarding team. What supported me the most was the personalised guidance and feedback I received from my tutors.”
Some of his standout memories include participating in The Nutcracker in Aaron Watkin’s production with English National Ballet, alongside performances in Lightfoot Parties.
As he prepares to graduate, Jean Loup is looking ahead to the next chapter of his professional journey, having secured a contract with National Moravian-Silesian Ballet in the Czech Republic.
“For the future, I hope to continue growing as an artist and integrate into a bigger ballet company. We’ll see what the future holds.”
For young dancers considering starting ballet later than others, Jean Loup hopes his own story offers encouragement.
For more student profiles and news updates please visit our blog.