KUNST n'all

In this episode, principal dancer of Finnish National Ballet Michal Krčmář reflects on the pressure of success, the injury that kept him off stage for a year, the struggle to rebuild his confidence, and how becoming a father changed his perspective on life and career. We talk about identity beyond the title, surviving the difficult chapters, adapting to a changing ballet world, and learning who you are when the stage is no longer the only thing that defines you. A conversation about ambition, resilience, fatherhood, and the man behind the dancer.

From dancer to choreographer, from searching for a voice to creating a world of her own. In this conversation, Sofia Nappi reflects on the beginnings of her journey, the process of discovering her choreographic language, and what happens when you step into the studio without knowing exactly where the work will lead. She speaks about intuition, the unexpected, the dancers who shape her work, building a company and community, and the questions that continue to drive her as an artist. At the heart of it all is a simple but profound question: why do we keep creating? A conversation about dance, identity, curiosity, and the courage to keep searching.

KUNST n'all return back from the holidays with a few news!

What happens when a world-renowned ballerina steps beyond the system that made her? In this powerful conversation, Maria Kochetkova reflects on dancing across continents, rising through ballet’s strict hierarchy, challenging tradition, and ultimately redefining herself as an independent artist. From principal stages to creative freedom, we explore identity, power, perfection, and the courage it takes to question the very world you once dreamed of conquering. A conversation about ballet—but also about transformation, voice, and daring to create on your own terms.

From Gibraltar to the international stage, Naia Bautista shares her journey through the rigor of elite ballet institutions, the discipline of company life, and the deeply personal process of self-discovery within traditionally rigid systems. In this episode, Naia reflects on navigating ballet as a trans queer artist, balancing classical expectations with individuality, and how embracing identity transformed both artistry and movement. Together, we explore representation, inclusion, and what it means to create safer, more expansive spaces for the next generation of dancers.

KUNST n’ Roger van der Poel: From First Steps to Nederlands Dans Theater This week’s guest, Roger van der Poel, shares the journey of his career—from his first steps in the studio to becoming a dancer with Nederlands Dans Theater. We dive into the intensity, the identity, and the legacy— from working closely with Paul Lightfoot & Sol León to staging their work around the world. From performing at the highest level to staging work that demands both precision and soul, we unpack what it truly means to carry a choreographic legacy forward.

In this episode, Kenedy Kallas reflects on a life shaped by dance—from early beginnings to an evolving artistic voice, and the collaborations that have defined her path. At the heart of the conversation is “I Am Afraid to Forget Your Smile” by Imre & Marne van Opstal—a work exploring memory, death, and human connection. The piece will be part of the upcoming double bill “Transformations”, premiering April 18 at Staatsoper Hannover. Having both performed and staged the work, she shares how choreography transforms as it moves between bodies—and what it means to carry something so fleeting while allowing it to become new. A conversation about memory, transformation, and the fragile beauty of what we try to hold onto. This Episode is in collaboration with Staatsballett Hannover. Kenedy's Books Recommendation: > Womb Awakening: Seren & Azra Bertrand > Kali Kaula: a manual of Tantric Magick - Jan Fries > Magdalene Mysteries- Seren & Azra Bertrand > Tantra - Osho > The Mary Magdalene Oracle Deck- Megan Watterson > Kali Oracle Deck- Alana Fairchild

What does confidence really mean in dance — and why do so many talented dancers still struggle with it? In this episode, we sit down with Kirsten Kemp, known as The Confident Dancer, to explore the mental side of performance. From her journey through professional ballet to becoming a mindset coach, Kirsten shares powerful insights into overcoming perfectionism, building resilience, and unlocking true artistic expression. We dive into: • The hidden mental blocks dancers face • Confidence beyond technique • The role of identity in performance • Turning setbacks into growth This conversation is for dancers, artists, and anyone navigating pressure, self-doubt, and performance.

In this episode, we sit down with legendary Italian dancer and teacher Pompea Santoro for a deeply personal conversation about artistry, identity, and transmission. From her early training between southern Italy and Turin to her extraordinary 25-year collaboration with Mats Ek at the Cullberg Ballet, Pompea reflects on the choices, risks, and inner transformations that shaped her path. She shares what it meant to embody iconic roles such as Giselle and Carmen, including the role of M. created specifically on her by Ek — a performance that later received an Emmy Award. We explore presence, vulnerability, and what it truly means to “serve the work” without losing yourself inside it. The conversation also traces her transition from performer to mentor, her ongoing work restaging Ek’s repertoire worldwide, and the vision behind the EkoDance International Project, created to nurture the next generation of artists. Honest, profound, and full of lived wisdom, this episode is an intimate reflection on artistic growth, legacy, and what it means to remain human — both on and off the stage.

In this episode we interview Aurora Dickie Brazilian soloist dancer based in Berlin, trained in classical and contemporary technique and holding an MA in Dance Science. Her work sits at the intersection of performance, research, and mentorship. After moving from Brazil to Germany, she rebuilt her career while deepening her understanding of biomechanics, performance psychology, and sustainable training practices. In this episode, Aurora reflects on: navigating a cross-continental transition, integrating dance science into daily practice, overcoming mental barriers in high-performance environments, mentoring young dancers with both artistic and scientific awareness For her, success is not just about adaptability—it’s about knowledge, cultural identity, and responsibility toward the next generation. Listen to the full conversation to discover how her Brazilian roots, academic training, and Berlin experience shape her artistic voice.

In this episode, Robin Kent shares his journey from being a soloist with the Polish National Ballet to building a career in musical theatre. He talks about the challenges of redefining his identity beyond ballet, what musical theatre auditions and rehearsals are really like in the UK, and the realities of freelancing in the performing arts. Robin also offers honest advice for dancers curious about transitioning into musical theatre and developing the skills needed to succeed beyond the ballet stage.

Our next guest is Katharina Christl , Rector of the Palucca University of Dance in Dresden Germany. Shaped by her early years as a dancer in East Germany, she now leads the Palucca University of Dance with vision and dedication. In this episode, she shares her journey; how she grew, created, and now guides the next generation of dancers. She reflects on the power of community, the importance of mental well-being, and the responsibility of shaping an art form in a rapidly changing world. A story of mentoring and creativity, showing how Katharina Christl bridges tradition and innovation to guide dance into the future.

In this episode, Joe Longomo discusses his journey in the dance world, particularly in hip-hop, and the importance of groove in dance culture. He shares insights on teaching, the competitive nature of dance, and the emotional challenges dancers face, including burnout and bullying. The conversation also touches on the balance between confidence and arrogance, the impact of social media on the dance scene, and the need for authenticity in performance.

Owen Belton shares his journey from studying computer science to becoming a composer for dance and theater. He discusses his diverse educational background in fine and performing arts, which included dance, film, theater, and visual arts, and how it shaped his career. Owen talks about his early career challenges, working in a print shop while pursuing music, and his eventual breakthrough composing for choreographer Crystal Pite. He reflects on the differences between composing for dance versus film and theater, emphasizing the upfront nature of music in dance. Owen also shares insights into his creative process, the role of technology in his work, and his collaborations with choreographers like Goyo Montero. He concludes with advice for aspiring composers and discusses his upcoming projects, including a collaboration in Buenos Aires with Goyo Montero and a future show with Crystal Pite’s company Kidd Pivot.

In this episode of Kunst n’ all Nnamdi shares his journey from a young dancer to a successful choreographer, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced as a BIPOC artist in the contemporary dance world. He emphasizes the importance of community, music, and personal identity in his work, while also addressing the need for empathy and connection in the dance industry. Nnamdi offers valuable advice for young dancers and reflects on his aspirations to reconnect with his Nigerian roots through his art.

In this episode, Goyo Montero , the artistic director of Staatsballett Hannover , shares his journey from dancer to choreographer and now artistic director. He discusses the importance of collaboration, the role of an artistic director, and the challenges of leadership in the dance world. He emphasizes the need for open communication and connection among dancers, the significance of audience engagement, and his vision for the future of the Staatsballett Hannover. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring choreographers and artistic directors, highlighting the importance of perseverance and creativity.

KUNST n’all returns from the holidays with two major announcements: We’re now the official podcast of Staatsballett Hannover, under the artistic direction of Goyo Montero, and—starting this season—we’re welcoming a new member to our team! At the same time, KUNST n’all will continue its original format: bringing you conversations with diverse voices from across the international dance world. Season 2 will be a space where both strands meet — a place for deep artistic exchange, across disciplines and borders. You can listen to our episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and now also on YouTube. Episodes in collaboration with Staatsballett Hannover will also be available on the official Staatsoper Hannover website. Welcome to Season 2!

That's a wrap on Season One of Kunst n’ All. In our final episode before summer, we’re turning the mic on ourselves — reflecting on favorite episodes, weird off-mic moments, listener feedback that hit home, and how much this season meant to us. And we’re so grateful you were here for it. This one’s for anyone who listened, shared, or sent us a message. We’ll be back after summer — until then, hit play on the recap and relive it with us.

From Australia and New Zealand to the stages of Europe — meet Catherine and Madeleine, two powerhouse dancers navigating the highs and hurdles of the international dance world. In this episode, we dive into: Life at Palucca Hochschule in Dresden, the raw truth about auditions and rejections, the pressure of the job hunt after graduation, being a woman in dance: competition, expectations, and the need for change They're talented, thoughtful, and totally unfiltered. Don't miss this one!

At Ballett Schwerin , a new generation of leadership is stepping in—not to tear it all down, but to ask better questions, challenge assumptions, and shape a more conscious, creative ballet culture. Jonathan Dos Santos , the company’s Artistic Director and Ana Isabel Casquilho , Ballet Mistress, are redefining what leadership in dance can look like—collaborative, intentional, and deeply human. We talked about: What it means to lead as young voices in an evolving art form, How to build a season that reflects both vision and responsibility, Creating a culture of respect, not fear, Rethinking hierarchy, feedback, and the dancer’s experience and why “the way it’s always been” just isn’t good enough anymore.. If you’re interested in how ballet is changing—and who’s leading that change—this conversation is for you.