Leaps & Life Lessons: Isaac Jones on Dayton Ballet’s Evolution

Join hosts Philip Drennen and Josh Stucky on Dayton Drama Queens as they welcome Isaac Jones, company member of the Dayton Ballet, for an in-depth conversation about life on pointe. In this episode, Isaac shares:

• A coast-to-coast dance journey: from trainee at Sarasota Ballet (FL) and four years touring with Eugene Ballet (OR) to landing his contract with Dayton Ballet in 2017.

• Dayton Ballet’s rich legacy: stepping into a small-but-mighty company approaching its 100th anniversary, rising quickly through the ranks, and thriving under new Artistic Director Brandon Raglan.

• Repertoire highlights: mastering Balanchine classics, groundbreaking contemporary works by Sanjay Pai (“queer love story”), Cube Blair in collaboration with DCDC, and upcoming funk-fueled shows.

• Body care & cross-training: insights on listening to your body, tailoring gym work by repertoire demands, the importance of rest, swimming, Pilates, and emerging exercise science for dancers.

• Championing representation: how Dayton Ballet is embracing LGBTQ+ narratives onstage—breaking ballet’s traditional mold to tell modern, authentic stories.

• Artistic aspirations & beyond: dream roles like Jekyll & Hyde, Paul Taylor’s Company B, Tudor’s The Lilac Garden, plus off-duty passions in knitting, quilting, and finishing a Communications degree.

• Advice for aspiring dancers: treat turnout as a verb not a noun, leave your ego at the door, speak up for yourself, and—most importantly—find the fun in every plié.

Whether you’re a ballet hopeful, seasoned performer, or admirer of Dayton’s vibrant arts scene, Isaac’s story is packed with practical tips, inspiring reflections, and a behind-the-curtains look at one of America’s oldest regional ballet companies. Tune in and subscribe to Dayton Drama Queens for more exclusive interviews!