Ballet's 'Posh & Becks' on Art, Angst, and Enjoying Negativity

Matthew Ball, a principal dancer at the Royal Ballet, discusses his artistic approach, acknowledging a 'dark side' that fuels his performance. He finds unexpected enjoyment in negativity, viewing it as a catalyst for personal and artistic growth, a mindset that has driven his successful career.

Ball prefers roles that allow him to explore psychological turmoil, but even technically demanding ballets like Don Quixote present a unique 'neural fatigue.' He finds that the intensity of performance can lead to a sense of embarrassment afterward, questioning what he revealed emotionally.

Looking ahead, Ball is venturing into choreography, seeking to create work rich in meaning by drawing inspiration from literature, music, and painting. He aims to present dance in intimate settings, enhancing its tangibility and connection with the audience.