What does it mean for you to return to the Prague National Theatre stage as a principal in Swan Lake? A lot of happines, but at same time a great deal of responsibility.I’m very happy that I was invited to perform at the National Theatre.I’ve known the house since I was a child. I held my graduation performance there and also danced two gala performances on its stage. With my return, I hope not to disappoint the audience and myself.
Your father, Jaroslav Slavický, is the director of the PragueDance Conservatory; your mother was a dancer. Growingup, did you have any doubt that you would be a dancer?As a child, I danced at home often and spent a lot of time in thetheatre, which was a magical place for me. I think because of thisI probably always had to be a dancer. Sure, like any little boy, I hadwild fantasies about what I would do as an adult, but then myconnections to dance were so strong, none of those fantasies stooda chance.
What was the experience of learning ballet under your father’s tutelage at the Prague Dance Conservatory?
I have beautiful memories of my time at the Conservatory, and I’m very grateful to all my past teachers. My father was always demanding, but he was also fair. It was not always easy being known as Jaroslav Slavický’s son, but I worked hard so that no one would say I was getting special attention or privileges.
You have danced on the international stage (Japan, Hungary, Russia, etc.) and have won many awards; what inspires you about ballet and each time you get on stage?
I think dance is one of the most beautiful arts. I even like the word “dance”. Dance has the power to tell powerful stories and convey strong feelings. I enjoy getting on stage to try to get the story and the emotions across to the audience.
You’ve performed in Swan Lake a number of times and as a soloist. Is it your favorite piece?
I enjoy dancing in many roles and in different types of performances. As a dancer, I think it is very important to experience various styles and techniques. This makes you a more mature dancer.
As a soloist for the Bavarian State Ballet, how do you manage the pressure of the spotlight?
I try to do my work as well as I possibly can. If a dancer is honest about his talents and gives his all, it will show on stage.
How would you describe the current state of ballet art in the Czech Republic?
I think there are many talented people here with passion and ambition. This is great, but I wish that we could have even more. More support for the art from the state would be a tremendous help,but we know what the reality of that is.
What advice would you give to young dancers or those interested in ballet?
I’m still very young myself to give much advice, but I believe young dancers have to have a real passion and dedication for ballet. And they have to be ready to give everything towards it.
Dance is a very physical art that can take a toll on the body, how do you keep yourself healthy?
Regular training is very important, and one should listen to one’s body. I’m still looking for that magic pill myself.
Will you make another return to the Prague stage in the future?
I hope so. I would be very happy to perform again in my home city.
What are your future goals?
This is a difficult question. I’m still young! I hope to stay connected to dance and to the arts in general. Time, however, will tell.























