PAUL BOYD | Experiencing Chernobyl, Childhood Bullying & Life As A Ballet Principal Artist

Paul Boyd is the Head of Academy Program (Upper Levels) and Choreographer in Residence for Queensland Ballet. Paul grew up in Wagga Wagga during the 1960's and found his passion for dance, and in particular for ballet. Over his long career as a dancer he got to perform across the world and even in front of royalty. After retiring from actively dancing he still maintains an absolute passion for the art, helping to grow the next round of Australian talent in Brisbane.

In Mere Mortals Conversation #49 Paul and I discuss: what is was like to be in Germany during the Chernobyl nuclear accident, dancing across the world in exotic places, his childhood story of bullying in a smallish country town and how he got through this rough period, highlight experiences from his time as a Principal Artist and the mental/physical fortitude it requires to reach the pinnacle of the ballet world.

As always, we hope you enjoy, Mere Mortals out!

Timeline:

(0:00) - Intro

(0:59) - The day of Sat 26th, April 1986

(6:00) - Misinformation about the Chernobyl incident

(9:57) - Dancing in East Germany

(14:01) - What makes Australia home?

(17:51) - Learning to speak German

(21:30) - Discovering the passion for ballet

(27:30) - Childhood bullying stemming from being different

(33:27) - Support and belief from mentors

(38:47) - Not taking life for granted

(45:01) - Dancing in Arena di Verona

(48:55) - The discipline of constant hurt/pain/tiredness

(54:59) - Longevity of dancers

(57:50) - Denying instant gratification

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