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Virtual Studio & In-Studio Teacher Spotlight: Rhys Kosakowski

published

18 August 2020

Photographer

Luke Hayward

“Throughout my life, dance has definitely played a huge role in keeping me grounded and inspired.”

Having been a dancer for most of his life, Company dancer and Classes teacher Rhys Kosakowski’s extensive career has taken him all over the globe. Currently in his first year with Sydney Dance Company, Rhys takes a moment to share with us why dance and fitness play such a pivotal role in his life.

Train with world-class dance teachers and Company dancers in 15+ different dance styles including Body Conditioning and Ballet with Rhys in the Virtual Studio.
Tell us about yourself. How long have you been dancing and teaching for?

Hey guys, my name is Rhys Kosakowski, I’m 25 years old and I’m originally from Newcastle, NSW. I have been dancing for 19 years and I started teaching last year.

What are some of your fondest performance memories?

Prior to joining Sydney Dance Company, I was a dancer with Houston Ballet and in 2013 we performed at the Prix de Lausanne in Switzerland. For those who don’t know, the Prix De Lausanne is a prestigious international dance competition held every year. Lots of talented young dancers who want to pursue a career in Ballet compete there and many of the winners are now dancing with major ballet companies around the world, so it was really special to perform there as a guest artist.

Another highlight was in 2017 with Houston Ballet, when I performed Wings of Wax choreographed by Jiri Kylian, who is my favourite choreographer.

What role does dance and fitness play in your life?

Life as a dancer with Sydney Dance Company is really busy and active and I am really grateful that not only do I love what I do, but it also keeps me healthy and fit. I’ve travelled all over the world with my career and that is something I don’t take for granted. Throughout my life, dance has definitely played a huge role in keeping me grounded and inspired.

How would you describe your Ballet and Body Conditioning classes for those who’ve never tried them before?

I teach all the different levels of Ballet in the Virtual Studio as well as at the Ultimo Studios and I also teach Body Conditioning in the Virtual Studio. I find dance to be a great way to express my emotions through movement. For me, there is no better feeling. I urge everyone to try a dance class; it’s so freeing and it’s also a great way to exercise.

What is one piece of advice for attendees dancing in your class for the first time?

Come into my class knowing you will get a great work out and that the class will be structured and easy to follow. I also encourage all participants to speak up and ask questions they have about the exercise or how to modify the movement to tailor it to the needs of their body.

What are three things you are inspired by or are interested in at the moment?

I’ve been really into the trio of Pilates, weight training and Ballet class and have enjoyed observing how they are changing my body for the better. I have been determined to do all three every second day and love seeing the changes in my core and muscles.

I’m really enjoying listening to Khruanbin at the moment; they’re an American musical trio from Houston, Texas.

Planting pot plants and gardening, in general, is always a favourite thing of mine to do. It’s the perfect activity to do while listening to a bit of Khruanbin.

Watch Rhys and Emily teach how to plant your own oasis of calm in your home:
What are your favourite songs right now that you’d recommend people listen to while doing your class?
All you can dance for only $28 a week in the Virtual Studio. Learn from world-class dance instructors and Company dancers including Rhys Kosakowski today.
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