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!