Julie Bowers - Helping and guiding young dancers achieve the opportunities they dream of.
Julie Bowers has dedicated many years to developing programs and initiatives globally to make ballet accessible, while also enhancing the training and development of dancers and teachers. As a founding member and now Patron of the Staffordshire Youth Ballet, and the creator of the RAD Genée Dance Challenge, Julie has consistently sought innovative ways to encourage, support, and nurture dancers of all levels.
Drawing from her own experiences as a professional dancer with the Royal Ballet, Julie understands the demands of the profession, recognizing the necessity for both physical and mental fitness. She, alongside Brandon Lawrence, devised methods to help graduates stay positive and gain valuable experience working with professionals who are genuinely committed to providing support.
During the lockdown, Julie and her team worked tirelessly to offer online opportunities for teachers and students. Their initiatives included creating the Lockdown Challenge with Brandon Lawrence and David Bintley, launching "Creativity Unlocked," a comprehensive Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program, and hosting Zoom support meetings for students and teachers. Additionally, they organized a Global Teachers Conference and offered adult classes aimed at supporting mental health and well-being.
These efforts reflect Julie's unwavering commitment to the ballet community, ensuring that dancers and teachers have the resources, support, and encouragement they need to thrive, regardless of the challenges they may face. Her passion for ballet and dedication to nurturing talent continue to inspire and positively impact the lives of many in the dance world.