Today we’d like to introduce you to Adèle Billotte.
Hi Adèle, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Since a young age, my aspiration has been to pursue a career as a professional dancer. Throughout my education, I had the privilege of combining academics with dance training in the southern region of France. Initially, my ultimate goal was to become a classical dancer at the prestigious Paris Opera.
However, everything changed when I attended a dance class taught by a former student of the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. It was during this class that I first encountered the Horton style of dance, which is exclusively taught at the Ailey School. As fate would have it, I had the opportunity to visit the United States, specifically New York, with my family, and it was there that my passion for this unique dance style and my fascination with the American way of life flourished. Realizing that the dance school I desired was located in New York, I became determined to pursue my dream of attending it.
While completing my education in my hometown, I simultaneously continued my dance practice. After three years in the same school, I embarked on dedicated dance training with the sole purpose of preparing for my audition at the New York-based institution. My singular goal was to secure admission to this esteemed dance school. Fortunately, one of my teachers in France had the opportunity to train in New York with Alvin Ailey for a year. Encouraged by their experience, I successfully passed the audition and was accepted into the one-year program at the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the very school I had longed to be a part of. This journey proved to be both challenging and extraordinary, as I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to my training.
Now, I eagerly anticipate the commencement of my second year in September 2023, continuing my artistic pursuit at the school that has been an incredible revelation to me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
During my dance journey in France and at a young age, I experienced a year-long battle with depression, which led me to take a break from both school and dance. It was a challenging period that compelled me to return home and receive lessons from teachers who patiently guided me through my recovery. As I resumed a calmer routine, I questioned whether I truly wanted to continue dancing or pursue a different path.
Dancing is undeniably one of the most demanding professions in the world. It requires constant attention to physicality and a relentless drive for self-improvement. Frequently, it means being separated from loved ones and making sacrifices such as abstaining from social outings to ensure proper rest before demanding rehearsals. Indulging in food becomes a rarity, as the body becomes the primary instrument of work that must be cared for meticulously. Moreover, dancers must master the art of managing their mental state, learning to perform despite physical pain and sometimes even injuries.
Life of a dancer entails an immense amount of work, primarily on the psychological front. It is a lifelong journey of learning and growth, shaped by personal experiences and the ability to navigate the intricacies of both body and mind.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am 20 years old, I come from France, and I am currently a student at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Pursue my American dream in this esteemed dance institution.
It fills me with immense joy to be recognized as a young French girl embarking on this new chapter as part of the American dance community. This recognition is particularly significant, considering I come from a small village in the Var region of Southeast France.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Throughout my journey, I can wholeheartedly affirm that my parents have been my steadfast pillar of support. They have been there for me from the very beginning, accompanying me through both triumphs and setbacks. Their presence and encouragement have played a pivotal role in shaping my path.
In addition to my parents, I have been fortunate to have an older sister and brother who have always been by my side, offering their support and serving as confidants in whom I can confide.
Of course, my dance teachers have also played a significant role in my career. I have had the privilege of learning from numerous instructors with diverse backgrounds and experiences. While some of them left a profound impression on me, each encounter has contributed to my growth and development as a dancer, ultimately leading me to where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: adele.billotte
- Facebook: Adèle Billotte
Image Credits
Paul photographe
