Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
Discover the unique and wonderful world of dance through the testimony of a young man who shares today his passion and takes us into a marvellous and artistic escape! Meet with Daniel Bryne, a 19 year old graduating student of The Australian Ballet School, and learn more about his entertaining passion.
How would you define your personal dance style?
I enjoy two styles of dancing, and both involve being in the spotlight. I find it easiest to play ballet’s comic roles – letting out my silly side comes naturally to me. But I probably get the most out of roles that allow me to be energetic and cover the most space possible; I love to draw everyone’s eye to me.
Have you always wanted to be a professional dancer?
I’ve been focused on becoming a professional dancer from around the age of 12, when I entered The Australian Ballet School’s Interstate Training Programme. Before that, like most people of a young age, I had no idea what I wanted to be – but I always knew I wanted to inspire people, via the arts, sport, or another career.
Who is your greatest artistic inspiration, and why?
It’s a toss-up between Mikhail Baryshnikov and Sergei Polunin. Baryshinikov because he was ahead of his time, and every young male ballet dancer at some point has watched him and dreamed about being able to do what he could. He was flawless, so explosive and energetic. That’s the style of dancer I aspire to be.
What do you love doing when you’re not in the studio?
Resting and recuperating; there’s not a lot of time to do anything outside of the studio. When I have time, I like to watch martial arts and Formula 1 racing.
What has been the most challenging part of your journey so far, especially being a male dancer in a female-dominated environment?
The Australian Ballet School is not female-dominated; once you’re on the professional track, it’s a bit different. As far as what I find the most challenging, it’s the daily grind, having to show up every day and put in 100 percent, then doing it again the next day, and the next. And then there’s getting injured and having to work your way back from that – it can be hard when everyone is counting on you.
What has been the highlight of your journey so far?
Without a doubt, The Australian Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty – dancing in Director David McAllister’s world premiere aged 16 just blew my mind. The experience spurred me on to work even harder, and proved that a dancer’s life is the one for me.
How has dance helped to shape you over the years?
In the literal sense, it shapes your body, but it also forms you mentally. There’s a lot of emotion and stress involved in this life – but all that’s put to rest once you step on the stage. That moment makes all the hard work worth it, and helps you push even more so you can do better for yourself and your teachers, parents, and peers. It’s challenging, but also incredibly rewarding.
Interview with Daniel Bryne
August 2017