Spotlight - Alex Wong

Each month we highlight a Prix de Lausanne-related international dance artist.

Name: Alex Wong

Birthplace: Edmonton, Canada

Training: Goh Ballet Academy, Rachael Poirier, Caulfields School of Dance, Dance Factory

Prix de Lausanne:

1st prizewinner & apprentice scholarship, 2004

Previous companies/positions:

-American Ballet Theatre Studio Company
-American Ballet Theatre

Current company/position:

Miami City Ballet (Principal Soloist)

Favorite roles/choreographies:

- Symphony in Three Movements (jump couple) - George Balanchine
- In the Upper Room (stompers) - Twyla Tharp
- Le Corsaire
- Rubies (principal couple) - George Balanchine

Career highlights:

- One of the recent highlights of my career was when we went to New York City Center this past January. After we danced "In The Upper Room" Twyla Tharp surprised us by coming on stage, bowing with us, and then told us that it was the best she had ever seen the piece done. It was the best feeling in the world!

- Having a piece choreographed on me, accompanied with new original music was definitely amazing. Dominic Walsh choreographed a new piece on me (Alchemy) in which I was the lead. It was one of the hardest pieces I've ever done! But definitely one of my favourites.

Message to the Prix de Lausanne candidates:

The Prix de Lausanne is an amazing competition that helps launch your career, but whatever happens after that is up to you. Be smart, work hard and never stop learning. Learn as many performing arts styles as possible. Listening and accepting criticism and feedback are important, but it's what you do with it that is even more important. Don't let it get you down - trying to see things from another point of view even if you don't agree with it will help you grow - let it propel you to new heights! Most importantly - help others succeed around you, and they will help you in return!

Message to the Prix de Lausanne organisation:

Thank you so much Prix de Lausanne for launching my career. I have to say it was probably the single most important turning point in my life thus far. If I hadn't attended the Prix de Lausanne, I have no idea where I would be today. I would not have met the same great people, and would not have had the same great experiences. The Prix de Lausanne gave me so much opportunity and hope. I can only hope in the future that I can return the same favour to the organization and help future young dancers reach their dreams. Thank you so so SO MUCH!!!!

Link: http://thewinger.com/alex-wong/