Cayden Bean returns to New York for another year at Ballet Academy East

GEORGE NEWS - Hoekwil ballet dancer Cayden Bean (19) is preparing for an exciting few weeks as he competes in the South African International Ballet Competition in Cape Town in the first week of August before returning to New York with a brand-new scholarship for a full year.

As a former dance student of the Sidwell Roman School of Ballet in Knysna, Bean recently received the outstanding news when he was awarded a second 100% scholarship after successfully completing the first six months of his studies at Ballet Academy East (BAE) in upper Manhattan - a prestigious ballet school in New York.

The new scholarship means he will return to the United States for a full year to continue his training.

Bean said going back to New York feels so surreal. "I have so much more time to work on my dancing and to live in the city again," he said.

He is especially looking forward to reuniting with his dance friends during his time at the school, and hopes to make new ones too. "They come from all over the world, which has made for some really great friendships," he said.

Having already spent six months in New York, Bean says he has grown confident about navigating the city and using the subway, making it feel like a second home.

A typical day in class

"Once I've woken up and got ready, I normally head to the gym at my residence for strength and flexibility training," said Bean when asked to describe a typical day in New York. "Some days I'll take strength classes, which are included in my scholarship.

"Then I'll do some recovery in the sauna, have breakfast and head to my dance school for my first class, which is an optional early technique class. Then I have a quick lunch break and attend my main technique class, followed by either men's class, partnering class or if we have a show coming up, rehearsals.

"My last class ends at 20:00 or sometimes 21:00. Then I head home for dinner and get ready to do it all again, Monday to Saturday. Sunday is my only day off."

Cayden follows a strict routine in New York.

Pizza and Asian food

Asked about his three favourite discoveries in New York, it is evident that food plays a mayor role in this young dancer's life. "Definitely the La Vita pizzeria next door to the BAE," said Bean.

"It's the local hangout spot for all the BAE dancers, and at least once a week you'll find us there, grabbing a slice. A New York pizza slice is the size of a quarter large South African pizza!"

Another favourite is Trader Joes, where Bean buys all his groceries.

"They have great food for affordable prices. The shop's location from my apartment gives me a weekly opportunity to walk through Central Park, which is always fun! China Town has the most delicious Asian food for such good value ... really helpful when you're a student!"

Cayden at home, relaxing.

Nature and a good braai

Asked what he never realised he would miss while living in New York, Bean said spending time in nature has become one of the things he appreciates most.

"The scenery we have here is so beautiful and something we all take for granted. The city life is amazing, but after a while, I definitely started missing it. Especially the mountains in Hoekwil. Also a good South African braai. That's something you don't find in New York!"

Ballet dancer Cayden Bean (19). Photo: Bronwyn Mulrooney