Racial Diversity in Ballet with Phil Chan | Kathryn Morgan

Today's video is highly important. I speak to Phil Chan, the co-founder of Final Bow for Yellow Face, about racial diversity in ballet. Race has been a huge issue in the ballet world and in ballets themselves. This is a very important subject right now, and we need to create change. Join me in starting this conversation.
Final Bow for Yellow Face: www.yellowface.org
Phil Chan's Book "Final Bow for Yellow Face": www.amazon.com/Final-Bow-Yell...
"What's the Tea" KZbin: • What's the Tea?
Museum of Chinese America's Membership Plan: www.mocanyc.org/support_moca/m...
SUBSCRIBE: bit.ly/2MQPhpL
INSTAGRAM: bit.ly/2Gr3hWa
WATCH MORE VIDEOS
My Performances: • Performances | Kathryn...
Advanced Ballet Barre: • Intermediate Advanced ...
Advanced Ballet Center: • Intermediate Advanced ...
Intermediate/AdvancedPointe Class: • Intermediate Advanced ...
Beginner Pointe Class: • Beginner Pointe Class ...
Full Body Strength & Stretch Workout: • Full Body Strength & S...
_________________________________
♥ More Places to Find Me ♥
♥ My Website/Blog: kathrynmorganonline.com
♥ Online Classes: kathrynmorgan.punchpass.com/c...
♥ My Performance Calendar: kathrynmorganonline.com/kathr...
♥ 'Kathryn Morgan Haul' Subscription Box: dancershaul.com/products/kath...
♥ My Podcast
~ iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/t...
~ Non iPhone Users: kathrynmorganonline.com/?cat=632
♥ Instagram: / kathryn_morgan
♥ Facebook: / kathrynmorganballet
♥ Twitter: / kathryn_emorgan
♥ Pinterest: / kathrynmorgan88
♥ CONTACT ME HERE: kathrynmorganonline.com/contact/
___________________________
I am a former soloist with the New York City Ballet and Miami City Ballet. When I was a young student, I was always looking for insights into the ballet world and how to improve my dancing as well as beauty and lifestyle tips. Now that I am a professional, it is my turn to share.
On my channel I make ballet, beauty, and lifestyle videos for everyone of all ages. My goal is help dancers improve and achieve their dreams as well as open up the ballet world to non dancers. You will see many different kinds of how-to videos here including makeup, hair, ballet workouts and exercises, Q and A sessions, lifestyle advice, and DIY on this channel. I hope you find all of my videos helpful!
___________________________
♥ Subscribe to this Channel : kzbin.info_c...

[@angelwong7758]

I am second generation Chinese-American, and I always just accepted that ballet was White-centered and old fashioned because I was told that it was "tradition" and "just the way things are" and "if we change it, it'll be ruined". I would watch Nutcracker every year and cringe at Chinese Tea and tell myself that this was how it was supposed to be. I really appreciate this video because Phil provided really effective and clear actions that could be taken to preserve some of the choreography while making the ballet more universal through changing the context!

[@ballerinacentral1672]

Ballet is white art, and that’s because it was invented by white poems. But that doesn’t mean other races can’t do it! I hope you get into the nutcracker soon.

[@rdred8693]

It originated in the Italian Renaissance, so i IT IS traditional.

[@KB-zo6ky]

Thank you Katie and Phil for talking about such an important issue. Phil is so articulate and open about his experiences and it is truly inspiring. There is so much Phil talks about that I have not even thought of or considered. And now I am excited to explore more resources! I am Chinese American and a ballet dancer. I can only share my experience with ballet and recognize everyone has their own story to share! I danced Chinese Tea in my school's version of the Nutcracker when I was younger. I remember asking the ballet teacher why we were bowing so much in the dance and she said well that's what Chinese people do. I was really confused because, being Chinese myself, I thought "well that's not what I do." At the time I didn't have the language to unpack or understand what I was felt dancing Chinese Tea. Now, I understand I was feeling was a sense of embarrassment for being portrayed as a stereotype. I love ballet!! It is such a joy to be able to dance and perform. I loved dancing in the Nutcracker every year and hope, like Phil said, we can continue to explore our creativity and find new ways to interpret stories. I hope we continue to raise awareness around diversity, equity, and anti-racism work in ballet and am excited to see where these conversations go! If anyone has any other resources they would like to share, please comment! With Gratitude, Keira

[@mewmew6158]

Well written and I fully agree!

[@perelandrawaddle]

One resorce I really enjoyed about the history of asian exotisism and appropriation in dance is "Moderism and Exotisism in Early Twentieth Century Dance" you can buy the ebook here -www.lulu.com/en/ca/shop/iris-garland/t%C3%83%C2%B3rtola-valencia-modernism-and-exoticism-in-early-twentieth-century-dance/ebook/product-21101292.html or if you or a close friend are in university you might be able to find it in your university library archives online I hope this helps!

[@uhhhhname9414]

I am a teen black dancer and I have experienced the most discrimination through ballet. I had this teacher who kept feeling my muscles and saying ballet does not suit people like me. I have received less corrections because teachers believed I wouldn't be as successful as the other girls. I have been told to untwist my natural hair and to straighten it to look like the other dancers (with my type of hair this would take hours!) Contemporary was kinda different. We had to wear these ugly shoes that did not look great on dark skin at all. When I asked about getting another color the teacher acted like I was overreacting even though I got made fun of because it looked like I had an infection on my foot with those shoes on LOL Then there's teachers who don't look at black dancers the same Because of their personal beliefs/stereotypes and struggling to find dancewear in your color even though black dancers have existed for a long time.

[@themaria7]

I'm sorry you've had these negative experiences during your training. If you enjoy dancing, hold your head up and don't quit! I'm black and studied ballet very seriously in my youth. I'm now a working adult, but I still take classes weekly, it's my passion. Some dancewear companies now understand the need for more options in the shades of leotards, slippers, pointe shoes, etc. You have options now that I didn't 20 years ago. The lessons you learn in dance, both positive and negative, will carry you through any path in life. All my best to you!

[@uhhhhname9414]

@@Audes977 really? Interesting! One of my friends lives there maybe I should visit some time in the future!

[@jacquelinesee-tho4638]

Thank you so much Phil and Katie! I truly appreciate you bringing attention to this crucial issue! As a young dancer myself (almost 15 years old) and a multi-racial dancer (Filipino, Malaysian-Chinese, and German) I am so grateful for your help in highlighting and bringing awareness to this fight for change that we must all take part in together. It is great that you are really going to the source and getting input and resources from those who face these problems of racism every day instead of talking about it by yourself. It is much more impactful this way and this video is beneficial to everyone, dancers, or not, as we reevaluate our actions and the world that we live in. Spreading this message on your inclusive, supportive, and accepting platform (that has many young fans like me) will help change the world for the better. I am lucky enough to have been surrounded by supportive and inspiring Asian-American dancers (especially women! and other mentors) in my training so far, from teachers to classmates. I danced Chinese Tea last Nutcracker season and have always wondered about the choreography and casting choices. A couple of years ago, my studio did take away the finger/chopstick and changed it to a demi-seconde arm. I understand that tough position of changing beloved shows to be more respectful and appropriate. I really like you idea of putting a spin on the storyline like many versions of Shakespeare plays. It reminds me of when I was in Romeo and Juliet at my school this year (but we sadly got shut down on opening night because of the schools closing on Friday March 13th), and it was set in 1960s San Francisco to give it new light. I also think it is important to have accurate representations of cultures through the use of a diverse production team for many fresh ideas, perspectives, and real portrayals. There is always improvement to be made, and I hope that companies around the world will transform certain dances from cultural appropriation to cultural appreciation. I am like Phil, I can see this situation from the white privileged side as well as the Asian-American side. I have seen through my parents' and grandparents' hard work as they built a life in America, the hardships that they faced. My mom has told me of a time in elementary school when she had just immigrated to America and didn't know traditions like St. Patrick's Day, and she was practically attacked by other kids with pinches. She has told me about how kids would come up to her and say "Ching, Chong, China Man!", not only is this unacceptable and disrespectful, but my mom is Filipino! My grand-aunt has told me stories of when she began working in the U.S. and she would be having lunch with coworkers and would laugh. They would wave their hands in her face and ask her if she could see, clearly talking about the Asian stereotype of having squinty eyes. My dad (German and Malaysian-Chinese-fluent in both languages, but he was born and lived in Malaysia until he was seven) would have teachers necessarily point out that he was "Euro-Asian", and although a different side of this racism story, kids would ask if he was a nazi because his name was Klaus. There are many other stories that I have heard, but through their grit and perseverance to give me and my siblings a better life, I have been fortunate enough to grow up quite privileged. Another story that sticks out to me happened very recently. One of my older sister's friends got punched and insulted with racial slurs on the subway at the beginning of quarantine for being Asian (although I don't completely know the circumstances, it was related to the belief of Asian people being the cause of COVID-19). These kinds of conversations and evolution in school education give me hope! Being able to be open and learning how to talk about racism and discrimination has really influenced me. There is still so much that I need to do to educate myself about supporting the BIPOC community and being an ally to those long oppressed for generations by systemic racism. Although I am still appalled and will never understand how people can be so cruel and rude to others and be blind to racial divides in the world, I consider myself lucky to be living during this time of realization and big change (although long overdue!). (I also heard about the devastating fire at the Museum of Chinese in America. I have family members living in New York, and my older sister used to live a block away from the museum. It is so sad, but I believe through all of these hard-hits, they will be resilient and make it through the other side, coming back stronger.) I'm sorry for writing so much! I think this is a really important subject that needs to be talked about. If you made it all the way down here, thank you for reading this (it took a really long time, but I'm glad I got it all out!). I hope you have a great day! :) 💖

[@juliannederouin6025]

I loved the comparison Phil made to Shakespeare and how companies have adapted the settings to take place in endless environments. It never occurred to me that this could happen with ballets. I found this talk super enlightening and helpful on my journey of learning more about the importance of diversity in dance and the arts in general.

[@avavojnik]

I suffered body dysmorphia as well as bulimia, and I'm not totally over it yet. But I am trying so hard to be happy with my body and the KZbin community like you and Luna Montana have been so helpful in my healing process ❤️

[@mewmew6158]

💙Best of luck darling💙

[@themaria7]

Katie, I commend you for using your platform to hold this difficult and often unpopular conversation. You are doing the right thing! Phil was an excellent guest and articulated so beautifully why this topic is relevant and important. As a POC who studied ballet very seriously in her youth and is now an adult student, it's so important to me that the ballet world is finally starting to have these conversations. Ballet is my passion and I have the utmost respect for its traditions and the beauty of its classical full-length ballets, but as Phil mentions, there is room for creative artists of today to improve upon and modernize portions of these ballets. I offer the example of Joffrey Ballet's The Nutcracker which Christopher Wheeldon did an incredible job of reimagining for the company a few years ago.

[@francinafedele1308]

This is such an incredible interview! I have watched this multiple times :) I think that we will begin to see the greatest change when the younger generations grow up and take the places of the more old fashioned leaders and choreographers of companies. As a white person, I am trying to learn as much as possible so that I can share my knowledge with others and hopefully have a bigger impact. This is a horrible problem that should never exist, and here we are in 2020 and people of color are still being oppressed. I hope that people will educate themselves and share what they learned about racism everywhere, not just ballet. This needs to change. Love from Texas

[@eslolin]

Thank you so much for taking this bold move for your platform. What an incredibly vulnerable and powerful step to take to inspire, convict, and move the ballet world forward. Phil is such a great guy! I love how he is mixed (SAME HERE! WHOOT) and is empowered by his biracial identity to be able to bridge gaps and call for reconciliation and conversation. When biracial, it's so easy to disassociate from races and say "I'm not like white people, or I'm not like those asian people" and avoid taking ownership. But Phil finds a way to take ownership and also is respectful to the beauty of ballet as an art, and wants to preserve the parts that are worth keeping!

[@alananguyen3270]

I think it's so important to speak out and make a change. When I see other dancers speaking out about this problem, I have hope for the future. I am an Asian dancer, and I love seeing diversity on stage. I hope we can all join together, no matter how you look, what you have been through, or the color of your skin.

[@Hellbender8574]

This topic is so important, so thank you for taking the risk and talking about it, with Phil Chan. Phil is extremely learned about the history of ballet, and I feel wiser for having listened to this talk. He said everything I've been thinking for years about "Orientalism" in western art, and how I wish we could update the classics by incorporating more authentic portrayals of world dance styles into the ballet. One point I'd add to Phil's talk about the portrayal of Chinese and Indian characters, is the parallel stereotyping of Middle Eastern characters in ballets such as Le Corsaire, The Nutcracker, Scheherazade, and others. As a dedicated amateur dancer, I think dance students can also be a great resource for ideas on how to do that, because sometimes they have some meaningful training in other dance forms resonant with their own backgrounds. Many years ago, when I danced in university, I portrayed the Arabian variation in the Nutcracker, and the teacher solicited ideas from the students who had some Middle Eastern dance training (including me who learned from Israeli teachers of Middle Eastern (Sephardic) origin). It was exciting for all of us to to work together to design a unique and refreshing departure form the typical sexualized and culturally inaccurate. My teacher's open-mindedness and creativity was a blessing to the dancers and the audience. She exemplified the adage, "I learned much from my teachers, more from my colleagues, and from my students the most of all."

[@thefreedomfairy]

What Phil said can be applied to so many situations where things need to change and difficult conversations need to happen. Thank you for being an example for peace and positivity.

[@sigridpetersen7901]

As ashamed and sorry as I am to have to admit this, I had never really thought about this issue before recently. As a white person living in Denmark I never took the time to actually think about this. Even though watching the Chinese representation in nutcracker made me uncomfortable. I remember dancing a Chinese girl when I was about seven years old. Thinking back I can see how it might have been offensive, but I remember just loving the part, because of the beautiful costume and choreography. The thing is that as a white person you’re balancing on an edge. Many of us don’t mean to be offensive, but because we can never know how it is, we take things for granted. Like of course it’s okay that I danced a Chinese girl, when I was a kid. I didn’t know better. It’s not my fault. That approach to racism is part of what’s holding back. In order to really be able to make a change, I think we need to be critical and open-minded. If a teacher or choreographer is learning you a piece, that you think is racist, talk to them about it in a respectful way. Even though it might be putting yourself in an uncomfortable position. And especially as a white dancer it’s your responsibility to not portray other races in a disrespectful way. By starting to change how you yourself react to racism, you can end up making quite a difference. I’m ashamed of the many times I just didn’t care enough to stand up for the person in the room being discriminated. Wether that be for their gender, sexuality or colour. Everyone has a chance to change the tide by just speaking up. You just have to decide if this is something bothering you enough to try to change. In my opinion trying and failing will still be better than to do nothing. So thank you so much for this interview. For opening my eyes more to the issue and for being willing to discuss the matter. You’re both absolutely brilliant ❤️

[@lepolhart3242]

White people can't be held accountable for all the racism that goes on in every industry out there as there is some racism against white people as well. Change can only happen if many people speak up but what happens if it's just 1 individual who is trying to survive in the dance industry. If for example they're an apprentice dancer and trying to get a contract with a dance company they need to be careful about speaking up and complaining as they will be marked as difficult and may not get a contract as it's been said by many ballet dancers that Directors and Choreographers don't want dancers who are going to complain and challenge them. They may see it as rebellious and rude. Even if you may feel strongly about your beliefs they may not hold the same opinion and at the end of the day it's the Choreographers and Directors who employ and pick what dancers they want for their ballets. I remember watching a Sylvie Guillem documentary and how she became known as Madame Non because she was outspoken and not afraid to say what was on her mind but this meant it gave her a reputation of being rude and difficult. The main reason why Directors and Choreographers put up with it was she is such an extraordinary gifted dancer who was very popular with the audience meant there is only 1 Sylvie Guillem and she could never be replaced. But if you're an average dancer who can easily be replaced then I bet many choreographers will replace a dancer who they see as being difficult even if it's for all the right reasons. If a dancer speaks up it could mean they have a difficult career or their career could end if no one employs them as the ballet industry is seen as a small world.

[@sigridpetersen7901]

I am highly aware that it might put you in a difficult position, but I think the key is how you angle it. Of course, it wouldn't be a good idea to straight out say to a choreographer: "you're racist". However, in these times, I think people would be open to hearing you out if you're very polite about it. It's also in the interest of the director or the choreographer not to make a highly racist piece, due to the negative impact it will have on the audience. Especially if they're choreographing something completely new. I don't mean that people should throw their careers away in any way. I just think it's a responsibility everyone has. It was the same during the MeToo campaign. Dancer spoke up about a problem and actually ended up getting justice in many situations. If it was possible to do back then, shouldn't we at least also try now?

[@crys3191]

I really appreciated this video. A lot of really important points made. A great opportunity to center Asian voices and learn more about the Asian experience within the dance world. It’s an experience that too often gets minimized or is given very little attention -Phil touched on this a bit during the discussion. I appreciate all of his work and I’m excited to read his book. I think this conversation is incredibly important. I’d love to see it extended to include other communities of color. As a black dancer, I’ve had to reconcile with my love for an art form that has historically excluded black bodies (and continues to today)-one that consistently reinforces this narrative that I, and people who look like me, don’t belong- and it chips away at me every time I step into the studio. Again I appreciated Phil giving voice to the complexity of the Asian experience, and by extension, creating space for a serious conversation around the need for greater equity and inclusion in ballet-and to reiterate his point, all aspects of it; from the audience, to the dancers, to the choreographers and storytellers, to the decision makers and those in leadership positions, to those behind the scenes. Institutional violence against Black and Brown folks is a symptom of a larger issue that manifests itself in many ways, that shows up in many ways, all of which cause harm to our communities and perpetuates violence. A true commitment to equity requires Intentionality and a deep investigation of how systemic racism shows up in the spaces we occupy and in our individual lives, with or without our consent. I hope you continue to use your platform to amplify BIPOC voices. Again, would love to see you continue this conversation and invite others to the table for an ongoing discussion.

[@annadenys127]

💗💗💗💗💗

[@themaria7]

I, too, am a black dancer. Love what you wrote here about reconciling your passion for an art form that has historically discouraged our participation. Thank you for your beautifully communicated comments.

[@annadenys127]

Thank you so much for following through on doing this interview 💗 I’ve been really looking forward to it and it did not disappoint! By far one of my most favourite (if not my favourite) videos you’ve put out on your channel, and judging from the other comments, it looks like many others feel the same way. I know you felt somewhat attacked on Instagram a month or so ago, but I think this is all that myself and others had been waiting years to see and it was done so beautifully and well imo. Also Phil (if you read this) I’m 3/4 through your book and have loved every page. I’ve been interested in the topic of race and ballet for well over a decade and it’s been such a helpful text for historical context to help me fully understand the means of appropriation at work in the theatre right now 🙏🏻

[@Chelsea_HHF]

Thank you so much for sharing this. When I first heard the controversy about the Chinese Tea dance in Nutcracker I didn't really understand, not to mention La Bayadere and Le Corsaire. This has helped shed so much light on the topic and has opened up that conversation for me. I ordered the book. Thank you so much, Kathryn and Phil.

[@brianne9]

The one positive thing from 2020 so far is that the conversation about race has come to the forefront of the North American white conscience. As a person with white privilege, I admit that I was unaware or or at least not taking notice of many of the racial microaggressions that are normalized in our society and mirrored in the arts and media. I do see that the Eurocentric perspective still permeates the ballet world, especially with the older story ballets. I feel guilt that my primary love is an art form that has not been and is still not inclusive. I admire companies that are seeking to be more inclusive, both in the stories they tell and the people they hire. I plan to support these companies with my patronage. I admired Ballet Jorgen's very Canadian Nutcracker and likewise, I love to hear that Le Corsaire is being set in 1930's New Orleans. I hope this work is picked up by many companies worldwide. Thank you both for taking on this important work and helping others begin to take on anti-racist work as well.

[@johnnyli4702]

Wow, I didn't expect something so powerful coming from this channel. I'm very impressed. Thanks, Kathryn.

[@catherinecarterartstudio]

Thank you for introducing us to Phil and raising awareness through this video. Like you, I recognized that as a white person, I can't understand what it's like to experience racism on a personal level, so I was always concerned about saying anything offensive or doing the wrong thing. You have helped me realize that what we can do is listen, keep learning, be caring and supportive, and press for change and equality. In fact, it's our duty not to sit still and be quiet; that makes us part of the problem.

[@mewmew6158]

This sounds like it'll be such an interesting conversation, excited to listen💙

[@abigailbrannon9890]

This is so amazing, such a good talk. Thank you both for addressing this in an open minded and understanding way. Especially thank you for making this for everyone of all races as well, and paying respect to all. Not only did I enjoy getting to hear from an asian dancer's point of view, which is wonderful, I also felt like you made sure to acknowledge other peoples race and make everyone feel like they matter equally. As we all need to come together and listen to everyone of all races and treat each other with mutual respect to find unity. Thank you so much for demonstrating that in this.

[@Zzzttt892]

Great interview! Nice to hear this issue raised.

[@penelopepolinsneemeyer4757]

What a fascinating and thought provoking conversation. Thank you, Katy and Phil.

[@d14551]

I am reading Phil's book now and it's excellent, so thoughtful and so informative.

[@kasia3582]

I hope American companies can lead the way in this. Unfortunately very influential companies in places like France, Italy and Russia are very stubbornly racist (blackface, yellowface, "harem" ballets done poorly, as well as just straight up not hiring dancers of colour) under the guise of "tradition"

[@thehappyelephant8868]

I see what you are saying with the blackface etc. But while I am not very familiar with these companies and their practices, as far as Russia goes the country just doesn't have a very big black population so its a little impractical to expect their companies to become more diverse when their country isn't. I looked it up and they have roughly 146 billion people and only 70,000 are black. Thus I think the topic of diversity in ballet is really a far more important issue in America that has a more diverse population.

[@rdred8693]

France, Italy and Russia are majority white countries, so why should they hire them?

[@user-lf8mq2li3i]

Thank you Kathryn for using your platform for such an important issue and for being very open-minded throughout the video!

[@cutypie12]

Thank you so much for sharing this conversation!

[@MissJaclyn]

Thank you for this Kathryn and Phil! Such an important and interesting conversation!

[@elisabethgraf4884]

This is so enlightening! Thank you for sharing this message!

[@DestinyHopeLou]

Thank you for this video Katy! Phil has an amazing way of calmly describing the problem and offering solutions. He has great analogies!

[@Caroline-jt6ez]

As a white person growing up in a predominately white environment, like Katie I can admit that we didn't question anything when it came to Chinese Tea-we just did the finger pointing and never said anything about it. 2020 really pushed me to educate myself and speak up more on racial issues. As a child I aspired to be the Arabian dancer in Balanchine's Nutcracker because you got to be sexy, mysterious, cling bells, stretch and do splits. I never really questioned it too until I was older. It was my dream in life to perform it, but I never continued ballet after age 15. I saw Georgina as Arabian in 2021 and thought she was (and still is) amazing on and off stage! I'm glad that more and more companies are changing Nutcracker, Corsaire and Bayadere to be less Eurocentric. I wrote my final essay in my Slavic civilizations course on how Russian/European nobility saw orientalist fantasies and fetishized it. I saw a smaller Russian company do Bayadere online and there were two things that stood out to me: the slaves were in black wigs and were painted tan and were bowing to fire and pretending to be subservient, but what really made me physically sick to my stomach was the children dancing with the Bronze Idol. They wear brown bodysuits and paint their faces black, and their choreography consists of hops in second position with flat hands which reminded me of late 19th/early 20th century minstrel shows. Not to mention the facts that white dancers are playing POC characters, the names sound more European than Indian, and the story itself doesn't make sense in that period of India-Nikiya, a temple dancer, realistically wouldn't have fallen in love with a high priest. They still do blackface in Russia yet the performers claim it's "tradition" and "just a fantasy story" when it's absolutely not and shouldn't be done. Like what Phil said, if we want to stick to the original Bayadere we need Indian choreographers, set designers and costumers as well as paying them equally or more than their white counterparts. What really sucks is that I hate the first act of Bayadere because of this, but the second act with the Shades is gorgeous. Again, I hope more and more companies take this into account, and make BIPOC feel included.

[@ellenlouise5551]

A little late to the conversation but I find this really interesting as someone who is mainly a musical theatre person, where the issues are literally the exact same (Rodgers and Hammerstein, the forefront of racism and catchy tunes, anyone?) and I see little white girls all the time singing King and I or some of the songs from Hairspray with lyrics that clearly aren't appropriate. I think it's wonderful ballet has the freedom and flexibility to change context of work like you discussed here, which is the obvious difference (we really can't change the lyrics.) I personally can't wait to see the new works written and choreographed by people who can tell their authentic stories - isn't that so much more interesting than just seeing the same perspective all the time? I certainly think so.

[@vermillion9nelson188]

Thank you for the very insightful interview. But all this being said....when is the Kathryn Morgan Haul going to have color choices for tights? I understand that it might not be economically feasible to have color choices if Dancewear Corner does not have much demand for non-pink tights but it would be the responsible choice to include them.

[@estherhadassa1061]

Very insightful! Looking forward to seeing ballet in a more inclusive and enlightened culturally corrected way. Love the ideas discussed and where we can go and how we can move forward as one people.

[@annalisemurray4610]

more like this please!! so interesting and informative 💞

[@tamarapalaganas7579]

Thank you ! So much for doing this. I hope other white ballet KZbin creators follow your lead.

[@HoustonMovies1]

Very interesting to hear the view how the racial diversity is understood. it is not a simple talk and I appreciate deep understanding and open aproach that allow everybody to buy in itno this approach for better open world of art and just to live in.

[@johnnyli4702]

This is so interesting because I had that same reaction when I watched Nutcracker in Madison, WI and spoke with the instructor afterward, but I don't think the conversation went anywhere.

[@jessicagoing1570]

Which nutcracker? I think a lot of smaller companies are really resistant/afraid of changing their nutcrackers in any way, but if you’ve already started the conversation maybe we could send some emails or something just to keep the conversation going...I think it’s important for ballet companies to know that there is a large audience of people that support changing these roles.

[@pheart2381]

Well,if the instructor wants to drag his/her heels on this issue it will eventually be forced on them. People dont like it anymore.

[@Ayzlin]

You look sooo pretty 😍 He is a stud himself ☺️ Great topic!

[@thaolethithanh4230]

Hi Katie, I was wondering if you could do a “ leg extension exercises “ video to help get my developpes and arabesques higher. I’m a home-schooled ballet student in Vietnam and I just can’t seem to find any good ballet schools here, so I’m asking for your help. You’re the best teacher on KZbin, honestly. Thanks, Crystal

[@cece121234]

Wonderful and informative video!

[@raquarterntsch]

Thank you for this!!

[@thaolethithanh4230]

Hi again! I have another recommendation for you. Can you do another ballet center class, either beginner to intermediate? I can find no other new center work on KZbin. Thanks

[@pheart2381]

Victorian advertising was a major instigator of offensive stereotyped images of different cultures. It was like "tea from China,lets put a picture of a man in silk with a long plait and comical hat on the packets!" Indian tea,man in a loin cloth and ditto,and co.

[@viviennestrmecki9533]

This is little off topic but I am currently working toward a teaching certification and master's in urban education, I working toward being a social studies teacher at the secondary level. Recently come to realize how whitewashed everything is and have struggled with the idea of loving history. Have you experience similar feeling with ballet?

[@lalalalala9451]

ur so respectful i’m glad you care :D

[@shelbyroundtheworld]

Can't wait to listen!

[@KendraEMoyer]

One idea for re-imagining these productions is to bring in more diverse production staff and directors as well. This would allow for an interpretation of these works from the perspective of the characters as they are depicted. Unfortunately the leadership models in many arts organizations actually serve to maintain traditionally racist attitudes in subservience to the good old days. Arts are a major stalwart for racist attitudes and tropes.

[@esterfleurke9309]

I love this! Thank you!

[@krhodes02]

Conversations like this need to keep happening. And CHANGE needs to happen within the ballet world! We can modernize ballet and still keep the techniques. Let’s leave the bad stuff in the past instead of holding onto it for “tradition”.

[@cutenoterchen]

I am watching it as the first!

[@belleah5562]

This is an amazing video!!

[@michellepretorius1124]

OMW please make the panda bear dance a thing in Nutcracker!! Maybe use younger dancers from the American Ballet School?

[@bowawang7106]

Wow I love hearing him speak and thank you kathryn to exposing me to his work. This is so amazing. I'm Chinese and I've always cringed at nutcracker. I'm glad dancers with big names are speaking up about it.

[@esstown]

This is craziness: Women were allowed to dance......then men were allowed to dance.......because this really did happen! This history alone should speak to the fact that social folly has been the norm throughout the ages. Thank you, Mr. Chan - for your well researched, well informed and well thought out points of view from your well positioned vantage point.

[@Poppy-]

Thank you for this much needed video. As an adult beginner dancer, I never had to face this particular situation. But seeing The Nutcracker for the first time I was a bit uncomfortable with the ethnic acts. It's dated. Growing up in the 80s, going to highschool with néonazis was very unpleasant and nobody fussed about it then (I'm half black). Afterwards I went to a 95% multicultural highschool, were I blended in, _but_ we did Miss Saigon's musical. Was it racist to play an Asian as a black teen? At least we were coached by a Vietnamese classmate for accuracy of the songs. Though I'm not an emigrant, nor my parents, grandparents... I'm still being asked where I'm from 🙄 Yes, I find it racist.

[@taylorsmillie4518]

Well done Katie ❤️

[@scriqu]

Hii

[@ElizabethFowler217]

Inclusion v. Appropriation... I love that! And how easy is that!!!

[@perelandrawaddle]

I am an indigenous/white Canadian who grew up in a predominantly Chinese community. I had the privilege of growing up in an actively anti racist ballet community. I used to watch the Goh ballets nutcracker which is choreographed by traditional Chinese dancers. It wasn't until I went to university and started studying dance history and dance aesthetics that I truly understood how deeply Asian exoticism is woven into ballet culture. How Eurocentic and white supremacist ballet is. Why is it that light pink shoes and tights are the norm (we assume white pale skin to be the default)? Why is it that we strive for uniformity of ballet buns (we still assume dancers have straight hair)? Why do we strive to achieve weightlessness through pulling up, lifts, pointe shoes?(default Christianity), why is ballet so expensive to participate in/watch? (eliteism), why do so many white middle class mothers choose to put their young daughters in ballet but not their boys? (upheaval of traditional gender rolls as well as a striving to offer better opportunities/ upwards class mobility to their daughters and of course to live vicariously through them), what does it mean to be performing oppressive, white supremacist Eurocentic dance forms on stolen native land? There is so much wrong with what ballet is and what/who it was created to be/reflect. It is only after we acknowledge these issues and actively work against them that we as dancers can mould ballet to become what we need it to be for our future generations. I want to thank you Kathryn for taking the time of day to use your white privilege and platform to amplify POC perspectives and thank you Phil most of all for putting in the work to call out ballet culture for turning a blind eye to their deeply rooted racist ideals. I can't wait to see what kind of work the two of you are going to make.

[@paulhe001]

I wish there was a way that you could show slavery and the bad things of history as an unjust thing instead of pretending like it never happened and wiping all traces of it away, or perhaps incorporate regional/cultural styles such as Chinese or Indian or African styles of dancing with Ballet

[@shelbyroundtheworld]

🤩

[@pedinurse1]

I really dont think people meant harm by this, maybe its guilt by lack of knowledge at that time. I think we need to be forgiving ,change it and move on. I could say that there is no representation in ballet repertoire about Puerto Ricans, my ethnic background , but I choose not to make it a thing, we are totally ignored and invisible. But I love the Cuban National Ballet. Anyway I have always loved ballet, all of Balanchine works, had season tickets. My parents couldn't afford ballet lessons so I took ballet as an adult for 8 yrs and loved it. I go for the art of ballet because I love it. I don't really like the modern type of ballet, it depends. Of course I love Don Quixote, when Paloma Herra and Angel Correra danced together., it was special to see Spanish dancers do these roles. I just don't want ballet CANCELLED because of all of this. I also don't agree in changing the original ballet story, I think we should retain the integrity of the original story. Do that with new works. Now the Chinese act in Nutcracker I wouldn't mind if that were changed if it is considered offensive but anyway that's how it was done. By the way Mexico did a full telenovela, many many years ago. In order to portray black people they blackfaced everyone. No one thought anything about it, it was a hit, cause there are not many black people in Mexico. Not that I agree with all of this now but just trying to show that sometimes all of these portrayals were not meant to be offensive. Thats all. that's my opinion for now, Tnx

[@rdred8693]

Oh for fucks sake.

[@rdred8693]

@@Audes977 I'm so tired of this crap. CRT IS Maoist crap.

[@shelbyroundtheworld]

14 seconds

[@melindawang8568]

Ok so this is really creepy. So my dance teacher has the same last name as you, looks really similar to you, and has the same voice as you. She told us a story where one time, she went to a summer intensive and there was a rumor that your sister was coming to the intensive. When my teacher walked into the room, everyone thought that she was your sister and starting asking for autographs and stuff so yeah.

[@JGreen-le8xx]

Katie❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😄

[@autumnpendergast9151]

Dance has always been ground breaking at breaking down divides. The old ballets that shared "exotic" national dances from around the world were literally bringing the world to the stage for people who couldn't travel. We must always be careful how we interpret history.

[@annadenys127]

Okay but...you have to remember that they were “bringing back” a colonized package/the white view of the culture, not an example of the actual culture or an appreciation for it. If you want to memorialize the ballets exactly the way they are you’re cherishing racist visions, which like...a choice...instead of the actual culture that they choreo is trying to copy/mock.

[@talentosodosmilonce]

Loved this video! My two cents would be: I think people should stop using the term “America” the way you do because 1. I don’t think you are referring to Canada nor Mexico and 2. It completely disregards an actual half of the continent of America which is South America. So the word “America” is in fact “United States of America”-centered, which leads to the ignorant belief that there are no other countries in America. The root of racism is ignorance so I think these little things count too. Blessings and take care! Nice to see new content here 💕😊

[@lisaannejane2]

I would be more worried about any dancer even having a job with this Covid crisis. You can’t social distance and dance. Personally I just want to see good dancers. The tickets cost too much for my budget and the cost will only go up if you have to leave empty seats between people. Will there even be a Nutcracker this year?

[@beautywearsboots6458]

A note for Phil, please do not fall back on traditional Italian-American stereotypes with your portrayal of "mobsters" in place of pirates! The term "mobster" is very closely tied to the Italian Mafia, which is not an accurate representation of most people of Italian descent. I know Italians are white Europeans, but that does not make racial stereotypes okay because NOTHING makes racial stereotypes okay. Please do not perpetuate the idea that someone's ancestral home makes them more likely to be involved in criminal activity!

[@beautywearsboots6458]

Additional advice after hearing the rest of what you have to say. Find people who identify with what you are trying to present and ask for their input. Talk to women who have competed in pageants, people who have been closely involved with organized crime (I know this one's logistically difficult but I have faith in you) etc. Let the voices of the people you are trying to represent on stage guide that representation, and don't be afraid to change your creative vision if needed. I know this is not new information for you, as I'm hearing it straight from your mouth now. But sometimes we need to hear our own words of positivity reflected back at us.

[@An_Cat_Dubh]

Many, many cultures have their own mobsters/gangsters/mafia, although the specific name for the group varies from culture to culture (Triad, Yakuza, Bratva etc.). But I understand your point - and it shows how easily WE ALL fall into established stereotypes. We tend to let our society do the thinking for us. Creating a Le Corsair ballet centered around a beauty pageant has its own obvious issues: beauty pageants are all about imposing standards and reinforcing norms about what can be considered "beautiful" within a culture. But I haven't seen this ballet redo to know if this issue is somehow 'discussed' within the ballet.

[@sabrinatscha2554]

Whites can’t be victims of rascism. Have you been living under a rock? I’m joking (but that’s what most people believe.) Just google: reverse racism.

[@stephq4008]

He’s just finding an semi modern Italian equivalent to pirates - don’t see how that’s racist