I was a professional ballet dancer with Ballet West, Zurich Ballet, New Jersey Ballet, and Kaohsiung City Ballet. I know the world well — its culture, career paths, artistry, and athleticism, across both classical ballet and contemporary dance. My artistic view is strongly influenced by Igal Perry, artistic director of Peridance Center, through his choreography and mentorship. Some highlights from my career:
Performed nearly every role in The Nutcracker.
Interestingly, at Ballet West, I was once the Nutcracker, and Nathan Chen was my Fritz, Clara’s naughty brother.
Won the Capezio Award at the 2010 USA International Ballet Competition (Jackson), under the name Guixien Chu.
Was eliminated in the first round at the 2010 Varna International Ballet Competition.
My friend Avetik Karapetyan did great, though!
Roommate was Brooklyn Mack.
Semi-finalist at the 2009 Helsinki International Ballet Competition.
Bronze medalist at the 2008 World Ballet Competition in Orlando.
Finalist at the 2007 Seoul International Dance Competition.
Completed high school at Taipei National University of the Arts
Many of my friends went on to dance at Cloud Gate Theatre of Taiwan.
Quarterfinalist at the 2004 Prix de Lausanne (inclined/raked stage, ouch!).
Alex Wong won the competition that year.
If you or your children are interested in ballet, I’d be happy to share my experience.