SunDance Guest Instructor: Rachael Hunt

CCDT is thrilled to have Rachael Hunt return to SunDance this summer, this time as a "Surprise Wednesday" Guest Instructor. Rachael had an esteemed career as a classical ballet dancer, performing with some of Europe's top companies, and has become an established and highly regarded dance educator in the years since. She was a featured Instructor on the faculty of SunDance 2019, teaching Ballet technique to Programs A & B, as well as Program A Pointe & Ballet Repertoire for two weeks. This year she will be joining us online from London (UK) to share her incredible ballet classes with the 2020 SunDancers on July 8.

Read on to learn more about Rachael...

Tell us a little bit about yourself, where you trained, and your career.

I trained at the Royal Ballet School in London. I joined English National Ballet, and then joined The Dutch National Ballet.

What first influenced you to begin dancing? When did you realize that you wanted to pursue dance and/or dance education professionally?

I've been a natural performer since I was very little. I was spotted at a dance festival by the judge who advised my Mother to pursue Classical Ballet.

Why do you think you gravitated towards ballet/modern/the style of dance you are currently most engaged with?

I had a natural Classical Ballet physique, so I found classes easy and enjoyable.

What has been a career highlight for you?

Dancing Apollo by Balanchine with Jose Carreno, at the Royal Festival Hall.

What is a challenge that you have faced in your dance career and how did you overcome it?

I fell on stage dancing Serenade and was temporarily paralyzed. It took me a year to dance again. I was just very patient and dedicated, and I really worked hard.

Do you have any advice for young, aspiring dancers?

Never ever give up on your dreams, you can transform yourself into whatever you want to do. Work very hard and be very secure in the knowledge that there is only one of You. Whatever setbacks you have, just keep moving forward, always.

From left: Dante Puleio (Limón Dance Company), Deborah Lundmark (CCDT), and Rachael Hunt (RAD London) on the first day of SunDance 2019.