Moving Moments: Calvin Royal III - A Journey of Perseverance and Leadership

Hosted by Artful Narratives Media, "Moving Moments" delves into the lives of the dance world's most accomplished and groundbreaking artists. In this compelling episode, Alicia Graf Mack sits down with Calvin Royal III, Principal Dancer with the American Ballet Theater (ABT), to explore his inspiring journey, creative process, and vision for the future of dance.

Introduction

The episode opens with Alicia Graf Mack announcing a minor scheduling change for future episodes but assures listeners that the quality and depth of conversations will remain unchanged. She introduces Calvin Royal III, highlighting his significant achievement as the third African American principal dancer in ABT's 85-year history. Calvin's late introduction to formal dance training and his relentless dedication to catching up with his peers set the stage for a heartfelt and insightful conversation.

Early Beginnings and Discovery of Dance

Calvin shares his humble beginnings, born in Fort Stewart, Georgia, and raised in a military family that moved frequently. Despite these challenges, his mother's unwavering support and his grandmother's love for music and opera created a nurturing environment. Calvin recounts his first encounter with dance at eight years old when he auditioned for the local community project, the Chocolate Nutcracker, with minimal prior training.

“I just wanted to kind of be around it and see what it was all about. And so my mom took me and I auditioned for the Chocolate Nutcracker. And I got in. I was about eight years old when I did my first audition.” (05:58)

This formative experience ignited his passion for dance, leading him to balance performances with piano lessons, which eventually paved the way for his enrollment in a performing arts middle school and later, the High School of Performing Arts.

Challenges in High School Training

Entering the High School of Performing Arts was a pivotal moment for Calvin. He describes the rigorous training environment, where he had to learn ballet and modern dance from the ground up, starting with the basics like turnout and foot pointing.

“The biggest challenge was just finding my ability to be able to learn the vocabulary of ballet and modern dance and being able to really kind of get my body to do all of these incredibly challenging things.” (10:55)

Calvin emphasizes the importance of dedicated teachers who nurtured his growth, regardless of his late start. Their support and belief in his potential enabled him to persevere through the demanding training regimen.

Breakthrough: Youth America Grand Prix

A significant turning point in Calvin's career was his participation in the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) during his junior year of high school. Despite an unexpected mishap—landing a blood-stained white tights before his final solo—Calvin's performance impressed the judges, including directors from ABT JKO School, leading to a scholarship offer.

“They had wanted to offer me a scholarship to come to ABT to train at the school in the fall, which was... I was just so shook.” (19:50)

This opportunity not only affirmed his hard work but also set him on a trajectory toward joining one of the world's most prestigious ballet companies.

Navigating ABT and Overcoming Perceptions

During his time at ABT Studio Company (ABT2), Calvin encountered strict training methods under Director Wes Chapman, a former principal dancer known for his tough demeanor. Initially interpreting Chapman's approach as dismissive, Calvin later understood it was a reflection of the high standards required to succeed in a highly competitive environment.

“It was a lot of being able to seek the clarity and understand it from the other side of why things were the way that they were.” (22:05)

Calvin's proactive conversation with Chapmann years later helped him reconcile these early challenges, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rigorous training that shaped his professional career.

Leadership and Responsibility as a Principal Dancer

As a principal dancer, Calvin discusses the importance of maintaining grace and grit both on and off the stage. He believes that leadership involves daily actions—greeting accompanists, supporting younger dancers, and fostering a collaborative environment.

“Just because I'm a principal doesn't mean that the journey ends there. It's how you carry yourself in the day to day.” (01:16)

Calvin underscores the significance of community and mentorship, striving to create a supportive atmosphere within ABT and beyond.

Breakthrough Performance: Apollo

Calvin identifies his role as Apollo in ABT's production as a watershed moment in his career. This performance not only showcased his technical prowess but also represented a meaningful step towards greater representation in ballet.

“To be able to step into that role that's so iconic... I was able to learn it and perform it... Just so moving.” (25:01)

Playing Apollo allowed Calvin to inspire young dancers of diverse backgrounds, demonstrating that ballet is an inclusive art form where everyone can see themselves reflected.

Future Endeavors and Legacy

Looking ahead, Calvin is excited about curating the Ballet Festival at the Joyce Theater, titled "Unite." This week-long celebration aims to honor the past, represent the present, and envision the future of ballet by bringing together established and emerging artists from around the world.

“It's about uniting all of these elements that have nurtured and allowed me to get to this vantage point and to be able to nurture and bring those up that are coming after me.” (31:16)

Calvin aspires to continue his growth beyond performing, exploring roles in artistic direction and production. He envisions his legacy as one of leadership and empowerment, ensuring that future generations of dancers feel seen, heard, and valued.

“I want people to remember that I was a leader and that I was able to give back in a way that made people feel seen and heard and valued.” (32:46)

Conclusion

In this episode of "Moving Moments," Calvin Royal III provides a candid and inspiring account of his journey in the dance world. From overcoming the challenges of a late start in ballet to rising as a principal dancer at ABT, Calvin's story is one of resilience, continuous growth, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. His insights on leadership, representation, and legacy offer valuable lessons for dancers and artists everywhere.

Calvin's dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment within the ballet community exemplifies the true spirit of "Moving Moments." As he continues to break barriers and inspire the next generation, Calvin Royal III stands as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purposeful living in the world of dance.

Notable Quotes:

• "Just because I'm a principal doesn't mean that the journey ends there. It's how you carry yourself in the day to day." — Calvin Royal III (01:16)

• "The biggest challenge was just finding my ability to be able to learn the vocabulary of ballet and modern dance and being able to really kind of get my body to do all of these incredibly challenging things." — Calvin Royal III (10:55)

• "They had wanted to offer me a scholarship to come to ABT to train at the school in the fall, which was... I was just so shook." — Calvin Royal III (19:50)

• "I want people to remember that I was a leader and that I was able to give back in a way that made people feel seen and heard and valued." — Calvin Royal III (32:46)

Stay Connected:

• Follow "Moving Moments" on Instagram: @MovingMomentsPodcast
• Visit: artfulnarrativesmedia.com

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