Interview with Ashley Bouder

Ashley and I sat down on Mother's Day to have a mama-inspired talk about her career, what mother figures shaped her journey to success, what other ballerina mama's she looked up to onstage and off, and when she knew she wanted to be a mother herself. We also discuss her upcoming children's book called, "Ballet Class," out in August, which highlights her mission towards more diversity in the arts. Thanks for the wonderful chat Ashley and Happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful mamas out there!!!

[@lauracowart3046]

Ashley Bouder is so beautiful! The fact she mentioned wanting to change her face is so insane to me... When she dances she exudes the most genuine, pure energy. She just radiates beauty! Thank you for the interview! ❤️

[@nicyeets631]

I’m only 14 minutes in, but this might just be the best one yet! Thanks Megan and Ashley for this!

[@charlotteh2641]

Wow, so impressed with Ashley Bouder! Fabulous conversation about feminism, gender and race in and outside of the ballet world. Really neat to see two principal dancers, in their 30s, both mothers, having this discussion.

[@dday9433]

I love watching Ms. Bouder's facial expressions when her face melts with love at something happening off camera ... it's so nice to see these "celebraties" out of their make up/professional armor... thank you for sharing.

[@laurenlawler84]

This whole series is fascinating, I'm loving all of the episodes.

[@dim9753]

It is so interesting to hear Ashley talk about caucasian likeness as a standard for non-white people. As an illustrator writing my thesis, I find myself reading about how colonialism introduced these aesthetic standards about people, art, tradition, etc. hundreds of years ago, and even after independence, nations and cultures are still trying to live up to standards that were never created with them in mind. GREAT interview!!!

[@cherylkavanagh3387]

One of your most compelling interviews, Megan. So sad when it ended. I wanted it to keep going!!

[@IntendJOY]

Ashley, the youtube video of Waltz of the Flowers is breathtakingly exciting. You are so radiant and so technically good that I just keep coming back to it! Thank you

[@maryjane4406]

I love these interviews!! This one is one of my favorites. I remember being a student at CPYB at the summer intensive 10-15 years ago and Ashley Bouder was rehearsing at the warehouse. Everyone that could, snuck in to watch and it was the most surreal and amazing experience! Hearing about her grit and determination and what she has overcome is incredible. Thanks for doing these interviews! Keep them coming :)

[@MyKombucha]

So informative! Ashley Bouder is fascinating and sounds like a force. Her engagement towards diversity is unexpected and so different.

[@tommydenzio]

Ashley is fierce. Great dancer

[@tarandaborgin]

I was at cpyb from 1996-2000 and this is such a trip down memory lane! I’m two years younger than Ashley but I started ballet at 10, and only made it to 2B, but I loved Leslie’s classes. And watching the more advanced dancers.

[@arnelnacino6754]

Thank you for posting this. You're both such engaging and thoughtful women. I've gained a new admiration for Ashley Bouder for her advocacy for diversity in ballet. At the turn of the millennium Peter Martins could not have imagined that he would unleash a bumper crop of terrific Balanchine dancers who would also turn out to be brilliant and inspiring women. The ones who've appeared so far on your show - Fairchild, Morgan, Mearns and now Bouder. I hope we get to meet many more.

[@cat56789]

I love that Ashley Bouder is speaking out about diversity and wanting the ballet world to become diverse thank you ashley❤✊🏼

[@kathymyers7279]

It IS BECOMMING “diverse”. Not many can make it in the ballet world. RACE HAS ZERO TO DO WITH IT AND THAT WILL ALWAYS BE TRUE.

[@d14551]

"Once you see it, you can't unsee it." Exactly. Bravo Ms. Bouder!

[@MrQbenDanny]

BRAVO!!!MEGAN!!! Another bottom of the 9th bases loaded 2 outs YANKEE STADIUM game winning grand slam homerun interview!! Dear ASHLEY BOUDER, What stands out for me in this interview is how much of YOU is in your dancing, which is brilliant and mesmerizing. I never suffer anxiety in my seat when I watch you dance, (Ditto Megan) because I feel confident all the steps will be there, the fouettes fear of a ballerina not completing them gone, out the window, the advantage to having such a pristine and confident technique, is that you're able to interpret a role with a free spirit. I think Mr. B is so proud of you in your efforts to integrate diversity into NYCB, after all, it was the great BALANCHINE who shocked the world of ballet when he hired ARTHUR MITCHELL!!! AND, FRANCISCO MONCION, a native of The Dominican Republic. In closing, I think you need closure from the saboteur incident with your toe shoes, you need to face her and say: "I wanna talk to you... I KNOW you were the one who stole my shoes, you better tell me WHY..". If she denies it, YOU SAY: "It's not my fault I'm better than you, CASE CLOSED". Then go have a cold beer!

[@transcan1]

This was a great interview! Megan, have you considered getting an agent for doing this in wider media than KZbin? You do such a comfortable interview - no awkwardness at all from you or your guests, regardless of any technical challenges. It's just like listening to a couple of friends reminiscing. Love the feeling of being a fly on the wall!

[@xy2565]

Completely agree. Such natural conversational style interviews. She’s amazing

[@lynnmiller4669]

Totally agree

[@kristiLB93]

So if Marcia didn’t have great training, I’m curious as to how she figured out how and what to teach in order to produce the best students? Did she just study what other incredible school were doing?

[@xy2565]

Omg the interview I didn’t know I needed

[@tiaaditia753]

I’m not a ballet dancer but admire the art! And this is the best conversation ever! So inspiring! And also gives a realistic image of behind the scenes of the ballet world

[@deborahclem4901]

Thank you so much for approaching the subject of diversity in ballet in such a thoughtful manner. When I studied classical ballet A MILLION years ago Alvin Ailey was the well known "black" company. I have followed ballet on and off for years and the last 10 years, this discussion really started to come alive, and it's badly needed, especially in a place like New York which contains such a wide variety of cultures, races, etc. Also, for Ashley, I practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and I would totally regulate for you on whoever stole your pointe shoes. I can't believe that happened!

[@katecassidy9357]

I loved this. I love hearing the behind-the-scenes stories. And Ashley is such a force for good in the world.

[@LillyPassion]

Ashley Bouder is one of the best ballerinas i've seen. Her energy is contagious. I feel her soul evey time she dances.

[@shaunasavala5494]

LOVED this one! This is totally my favorite “talk show” ever 🙌🏻

[@soldaliberdade13]

I'm so glad I watched this from start to finish. I am so impressed with Ashley - she is an impeccable dancer, but wow! such an amazing woman, too, in so many respects. I already was thinking how crazy her story was (and want to see old footage of her dancing as a child!)... and then when she cited bell hooks (who is a significant influence in my life)... there are so many layers to this woman! These interviews are amazing lenses into the lives of people who are already exemplary as artists... and then take responsibility with their characters and pursuits outside of their dancing, too. It makes me really want to meet all of you!

[@marymohagheghi4875]

I feel that I will watch Ashley in a new way🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺💞

[@FredCompton]

Absolutely LOVED this interview. So insightful into what's important to you Ashley! Wishing you and your family great joy and happiness. Thank you for sharing with us. Megan, again, thank you for your efforts in making this happen for all your fans!

[@kimberlyli1578]

What an amazing interview. So much inspiration, humor, and wisdom from these lovely ladies (and mothers!).

[@Phantomnightwatcher]

YES!!!!!! Thank you so much for bringing some light and happiness during this time of uncertainty.

[@gailjacobson9736]

Ashley is a powerful woman. Thank you Megan! Thank you Ashley

[@rebeccacarden973]

OMG!!!! The two queens

[@zaoyingcherryji4761]

Wow this is the most insightful interview ever!! Thank you Megan and Ashley!

[@radiantonion8615]

new props . wow.....ok, when Ashley starts going off on feminism and gender equality - I'm just so floored and impressed. My mouth is open in awe of the articulation and intellect. It's inspiring. After I see and read so much stupidity (in the media) it's so refreshing to see this level of straight forward brilliance.

[@kaykomckayface1097]

It's nice to hear the top ballerinas are now working on such issues in the ballet world. The kind of racial/gender bias in this world is just insane... My professional ballerina teachers here in Japan once told me that they are required not to get tanned in summer cuz it might "not look good" on stage. On top of that, you have to constantly use "whitening" or "bleaching" product to your WHOLE BODY to keep a whiter skintone as we Asians are born with... Ive tried so hard to debate, explain or even argue against those things but it just does so so so little to nothing... As to gender bias, OMG I don't even know where to start... But with much bigger platform like yours I hope ppl will start to change... Even in Japan... Meanwhile I'll still keep doing my part. ❤️❤️

[@vickyvazz]

Loved seeing you in OnPointe on Disney+! Would love to hear you talk about your experiences with the kids/ how they effect your performance, or any funny stories you have!!

[@lanakranjcevic2752]

I love Ashley's story and what she's fighting for. She's so inspirational, you both are❤️

[@sameoldsteph]

I love all your interviews, Megan, but this one is extra special! I have so much to say about all of it. I have a daughter, now 8 years old, who didn't wear anything pink until she was 2. I have no idea why I dressed her the way I did. She's the most fierce and yet caring human I know. I don't worry about her being sidelined by society, she's way too fierce. I love you both as dancers (along with so many others). Thank you for these interviews. Keep doing them please! Much love to you both and your beautiful, strong girls. xoxo

[@redlantern3371]

Megan, your interviews have been a joy. And this one is no exception. Thank you Ashley for all of the reminiscing of your early work and inspiration from your teacher. And also letting us in to your present life as well. So interesting!

[@avesraggiana]

Another great interview! You're both so charming. Ms. Fairchild, could you put Karla Korbes on your interview list? I know she retired from Pacific Northwest Ballet a few years ago.

[@ellexie2788]

Such a beautiful interview! I am in tears now.

[@stephmeowtin]

Wow what a fabulous interview. Love love love Ashley Bounder on stage. Such energy!!!! Thank your for doing this one.

[@Prettytacky]

This made my monday, thank you both! I absolutely love the combination of 'behind the scenes' stories and broader musings on what it means to practice ballet in these interviews.

[@marymohagheghi4875]

Ashley... Your story is just fascinating ........your strength is an inspiration

[@MyKombucha]

With your interviews so extensive and thorough... Would you consider interviewing a career corps female dancer? I'd love to hear the perspective of the dancers who did not climb the ranks all the way to soloist and higher and how they fared psychologically...

[@Qacc6]

Another great conversation! Love Ashley’s life stories, and both of your perspectives on dance and life.

[@thesmileyriley397]

Hi Megan! This channel is pure genius! Thank you so much for the amazing content!

[@ruthdavidson-schaller2245]

Just fantastic. You both share so many wonderful insights and perspectives for young dancers to learn from!

[@kristiLB93]

All the episodes are great! Just loving it!

[@louisianalady7105]

Ashley and Megan, What a beautiful conversation about acknowledging diversity and bringing inclusivity into the world of Ballet! It takes leadership such as yours to bring about change. Just lovely!

[@gloriouslyimperfect]

The site Ashley mentioned to get her book is actually bookshop.org!

[@richardvergara]

Always one of my favorites!!! Wish there were more like the both of you.

[@alexranner]

This was a really great interview! I had a lot of respect for Ashley before, but it's even more now! All the stories were so interesting and I think it is great that she uses her reach to support people with less privilege. Thank you for posting it! Keep up the great work (both of you!)

[@graciejohnson9692]

I've been waiting for this interview!!

[@kristendion948]

I love these interviews! Always makes me smile (and distracts me from summer school)

[@karenkaren3189]

I loved this interview. Amazing to me that anyone can be a ballerina and even more that they can be a mom AND a ballerina.

[@KaliKleiman]

I loved every second of this! Thank you for being so transparent and inspiring! Your careers are amazing! I wish I could do a Q & A with you both!!❤️

[@melaniegill196]

This was beautiful and so insightful! Really got me thinking deeper about diversity in all aspects of our society and I will definitely notice more around me now. Thank you, Ashley, for being so passionate in all that you do and working so hard to make this world a better place! We need more people like you! Have always loved your dancing as well! I got to witness your talent all the way on the west coast in Lake Tahoe and it will be an experience I never forget! Much love to you both!

[@alicebray9738]

Having trouble finding words to describe how much I have enjoyed this series of chats. For me they have been one of the unexpected gifts of the Great Lockdown -- something enjoyed in the moment but also something I know will remain with me for a long time to come.

[@laurasevero2753]

Am I living or just watching Megan's interviews and taking Megan's class??? guurl you're amazing

[@icarrus4u]

What an incredible interview!

[@mariacaritovegasm]

I loved this. I admire Ashley sooo much. And you too Megan. I am just over the moon to be able to see your digital season. I’m Colombian, and every time I have been in NY (3 times) it has been during de off season, so I have never been able to fulfill my dream of watching the company live. Anyway, love, love, love your interviews. But this, and Sara Mearns one, have been just amazing.

[@twistednarcism]

So many amazing stories!!

[@FredCompton]

It's shocking that someone, who understands the importance of pointe shoes, would consider doing this to another dancer. When I worked in a scene shop, it was an unwritten rule, that you NEVER touch/use another craftsman's tool without permission. It's terrible that this happened to you.

[@6gorks]

"Friends, they cherish one another hopes, they are kind to one another dreams." Henry David Thoreau "A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle." "Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that but the really great make you feel that you too, can become great." Mark Twain Three quotes that came to mind while enjoying this interview. The two of you are fortunate in friendship.

[@hikingleigh]

Agree. I cannot fathom a professional doing this, it’s total mean girls. Poor Ashley, even if there was a personality clash, it boggles the mind that someone could do that to someone else. I’m livid for her!

[@meganfairchild6135]

Fred Compton It is crazy to look back! I don’t think this would ever happen today! Which is wonderful!!! 💕💕💕

[@katiefulton9456]

I had my boyfriend seething at retelling the story- he’s not a dancer, but I’ve trained him well. 😁 And he was actually appalled by both pointe shoe horror stories: (as am I of course- I’ve never actually had a true like “from the dancers mouth” account but it’s... THE nightmare!) God Bless! I explained (to my bf) that Ashley wore a half size too big, NOT her maker (I’m guessing she was still in Freeds at this time) and a different pointe shoe brand altogether. And I wear Freed classics, so - he gets it. He knows my maker/s. And my maniacal obsessions/rituals/preparations. We were appalled for like a good 30 minutes: but he ended with: “That proves: she’s a true professional.” *Amen!* 👏 (He also compared this to someone handing a MLB baseball player a wiffleball plastic hollow bat & pushing them up to bat...which is: kinda true!) You’re amazing, BOTH OF YOU! ☮️❤️💫

[@sameoldsteph]

I think it was pure immature envy. But yes, shocking!

[@heathermorales8366]

My favorite video!!!

[@kellymac2404]

Love this 🌹🙏

[@kierafitzgerald8062]

Someone stole your pointe shoes?! My goodness. Katie Morgan told a similar story about when she was first cast as Juliet. She said there were a few very kind people, but a lot of the other dancers were not very nice at all. I couldn’t imagine the competitive nature of such a job at a company like NYCB.

[@kathleensauer3394]

Excellent Interview!

[@EhlieLuna]

Great talk!

[@margaretvivian9167]

It’s great to hear your perspectives on gender bias within the field, especially taking into account those token efforts towards equality- doing things once doesn’t right the wrong it only highlights the inequity and does not force the acknowledgment of privilege that needs to happen within things like choreography and leadership positions in dance in order to make room for lasting change. Let’s speak up! Thank you for using this as a means to do so, even if unintentionally!

[@misskimberly5]

yay!!

[@fabiesque]

I saw you guys in Spoleto dancing a FABULOUS "Who Cares?" few years ago. It has been a sensational evening on the piazza!

[@elainepages6362]

This interview is so so amazing. I am enjoying all of these so much. Megan, you are a natural at this and Ashley is such a brilliant woman. Thank you to both of you.

[@marymohagheghi4875]

Megan... I think you may have found your second career💐

[@daliablackman7374]

Thank you so much for this interview! Reminds me of Marcia and cpyb)))

[@IntendJOY]

Marcia Haydee?

[@WeirdLittleDreams]

Whew!!! Say it again!!!! Starting over from plie when taking classes back to back. That was such an issue for me in college Ballet MWF from 9:00am - 10:15am, Modern from 10:30am-11:45am, Afro-Brasilian or Afro-Cuban 1:00pm - 2:15pm, Jazz 2:30pm - 3:45pm : like teach!!! I am already warm!!!

[@WeirdLittleDreams]

Can we talk about how great the lighting is?

[@WeirdLittleDreams]

Haha!!!! you mentioned it in the video.

[@jacquishepherd5337]

my 2 fav people.

[@cerimarsh9803]

I'm dying to know who is the pointe shoe thief!

[@meganfairchild6135]

Ceri Marsh 😂😂🤫🤐

[@wonkhong]

us weekly lol

[@weislang]

You are two of my favorite dancers, and now, two of my favorite people. Thank you for your intelligence, perception, and senses of humor! Your discussion of feminism, race, power, and diversity was very thoughtful and interesting. All best wishes to you both! I look forward to seeing you back dancing soon. (And I'm a professor, and I wish you were my students :)!)

[@sameoldsteph]

Aww, so sweet. My kids are 8 and 9 and they call me 'Dad' on the regular...it's funny. I mix up everyone's name now too. I used to make fun of my grandmother for doing the same thing, but now I know.

[@kaceysmith947]

Is Ashley’s book published and/or available to purchase at all. I would love to have a copy for my collection and if I ever have kids?!

[@akurayama143]

Did you go to CPYB when you were young??

[@marymohagheghi4875]

Ashley.... you have a lovely lovely face🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻

[@kimhaas7586]

Interesting that Lauren Lovette is never mentioned as a choreographer. What are we to make of that?

[@breemds]

🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@rosefray5984]

How does school work when you are at ballet school

[@meganfairchild6135]

Rose Fray you usually do two school classes, then back to ballet and do the first ballet class, and then repeat once more that day. That’s how SAB does it.

[@WeirdLittleDreams]

Violet Storm's momma!!!!

[@WeirdLittleDreams]

Have Lin and/or Pete ever taken a beginner's ballet course?

[@WeirdLittleDreams]

I've heard Lauren Anderson talk about wearing brown tights and how being in a featured role makes a difference. It's less consequential.

[@cathuntley7826]

I thought pink tights were worn to see the muscles in your legs. Especially as a student.

[@voraciousreader3341]

I can’t believe the female bullying...I’ve been bullied since the age of 10, and it’s just _THE WORST._ I’ve always been really nice, I’ve always cultivated a generous spirit, I gave NEVER said a horrible word to anyone, and I’m a narcissistic bully magnet. Don’t get it, never will, but nothing’s going to get me off my high road. Bitches, everywhere!

[@Constantin9va]

I just think it’s so sad that someone would take out their jealousies on the dancer instead of THE PERSON IN CHARGE OF CASTING!!! It’s just unintelligent...

[@WeirdLittleDreams]

I wanted kids by 26...

[@Purple_Box]

Imagine having to work with the *itches that did that to her.

[@pheart2381]

Wow,that shoe thief has some issues!

[@joyalways1179]

Check your thyroid Ashley.