Boys in Ballet: Meet Paul

As part of 'Get Scotland Dancing', we have a "Bring a boy to Ballet" week, 10-16 March. Meet one of our former students, Paul...

Get Scotland Dancing is a nationwide initiative with a number of dance events running throughout the year and across the country, including "Get Dancin" offering free dance classes across Scotland. Our 'Bring a boy' week hopes to introduce boys to the world of dance as a fun and energetic activity.

Meet our boys...

We are especially proud of our male dance students and, as part of 'Get Dancin' week, would like to highlight their achievements, dedication and determination.

Meet Paul Howard (18) who was a late starter to ballet and is now training fulltime at one of the UK's top ballet colleges...

• When did you start ballet? I only started when I was 15. I already did gymnastics and some acrobatics. My friend Duncan Anderson danced with CSBS so I went there.
• Where are you training now? I am in 2nd year at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, in partnership with Scottish Ballet, studying on the BA Modern Ballet course.
• Do you perform on stage as well? I've been in a few shows, including the RCS ballet showcase which included pieces by Christopher Hampson and classical pieces from Scottish Ballet's repertoire.
• Why should boys try dancing or ballet? I think it's extremely important boys are involved in dance as it massively increases your confidence, keeps you fit, and is also a great way to become open to other people. It also gives you discipline which is crucial in life, but most of all it's so much fun and enjoyable! 

Well done Paul - we are looking forward to following your dance career! Here are a few photos of Paul dancing the role of the Father in our version of "Beauty and the Beast" (Photos: Leask Photography)