City Ballet The Podcast Episode 134: The Rosin Box: Students on Stage
Apr 14, 2025
This week, Harrison Coll, a soloist with the New York City Ballet and former SAB student, chats with young student Theo Rochios, who recently performed as the prince in The Nutcracker. They discuss the challenges of balancing rigorous training and academics in ballet. Harrison shares insights on mentorship and the thrill of performing on stage, while Theo reflects on the emotional journey of his debut and the impactful lessons learned from his instructors. Their exchange highlights the importance of tradition and community in the ballet world.
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Theo's Nutcracker Prince Debut
- Theo got the lead role of the prince in The Nutcracker on only his first performance.
- He recalls the excitement and shock of sharing the news with his sister at home.
Projection and Eye Contact Tips
- Dancers must learn to project their movements on large stages, making them bigger than in studio.
- Look out into the audience rather than mirrors, to connect with every spectator.
Theo's Contrasting Roles Experience
- Theo experienced two contrasting stage roles: the social prince and a solitary character in Ratmansky's Solitude.
- Being the only child in the latter required adjusting to a new backstage dynamic and mindset.