Thriving in a World of Critique with Adrian Fry - Ballet West, Principal Dancer

Discover the dedication, discipline, and mental resilience required to excel in the demanding world of professional ballet. Adrian Fry, a celebrated principal dancer with Ballet West, shares his unique journey from small-town beginnings to commanding the stage, offering a glimpse into the rigorous schedule and the competitive and critiquing culture of ballet.
In this conversation with ReliaQuest mental performance coaches Dr. Nicole Detling and Derin McMains, you’ll hear Adrian discuss:

• Developing mental resilience to perform consistently
• Navigating competitive and collaborative environments
• Mental skills needed to combat perfectionism

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Specific Highlights:
6:34 – The background of the culture of ballet
10:45 – There is no formula to get promoted
14:23 – Competitive and collaborative environment
23:33 – Dealing with correction and criticism
33:15 – How to make monotonous things feel new
36:13 – Importance of choosing your perspective
46:30 – FINAL QUESTION: What were the things you were willing to do that others weren’t that has helped you have success?

Ballet West website: https://www.balletwest.org/

Dr. Nicole Detling LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-detling-phd-cmpc-32b1809/

Derin McMains LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derin-mcmains-m-s-m-a-cmpc-09158662

Thumbnail image by Beau Pearson