The Art of Casting and Coaching

Crafting a Ballet from the inside out

Each season the casting process requires a multifaceted approach that begins long before the curtain rises, one that can be weeks, even months in the making. Casting dancers is not as simple as selecting performers for specific roles; it’s a collaborative and artistic endeavor that requires a keen understanding of the choreography, the dancers’ strengths and abilities, and the choreographer and Artistic Director’s vision.

Behind the scenes, dancers are supported by a team of Rehearsal Directors, choreographers, and coaches who help cultivate their technical and artistic growth. Former SF Ballet Principal Dancer and current Rehearsal Director, Joanna Berman, notes, “It’s often about recognizing the strengths of each unique individual and their potential to grow into a role both technically and artistically. Sometimes it can be as simple as two casts needing to be the same height or fitting into existing costumes, other times it’s the artistic connection between choreographer and dancer, the chemistry between partners, dancers who are wired for certain technical strengths, or an opportunity to nurture a young dancer’s career trajectory.”

One of the pivotal aspects of casting is recognizing the individuality of each dancer. Every dancer brings their own interpretation, technique, and artistic sensibility to a role, enriching their performance with their individualized approach. Whether it’s the emotional complexity of a ballerina taking on the role Odette/Odile, or the virtuosity of a technical powerhouse solo, each dancer brings a unique point of view to the role.

“Back when I was dancing, I was cast in Balanchine’s Ballo della Regina, which was so challenging for me. I went to the Rehearsal Director, Bonny Borne, and asked why I was dancing this role that was so hard for me. She said, ‘Because it’s good for you and you can work on these areas where you can grow.’ Now as a Rehearsal Director, I really enjoy coaching and digging into the dramatic aspects of a role with a dancer. When I worked with Sasha De Sola on Giselle, we would just sit there and bunhead out over artistic choices and character development. Sharing what I learned from my coaches when I danced these roles is especially rewarding.”

The art of casting and coaching is a balancing act that blends intuition with expertise, a sense of foresight and generational knowledge. As audiences are transported into the realm of the extraordinary each season, they bear witness to the culmination of countless hours of dedication both onstage and off.