In this episode of At the Barre, we go behind the scenes with Madison Ballet company member and emerging choreographer James Wainwright.

James shares how he transitioned from years of playing football into professional dance after starting ballet and musical theatre as a teenager. He reflects on growing up around his mother’s dance studio in Chicago, the sense of belonging he found in the studio environment, and the journey that eventually brought him to Madison Ballet.

We also get a sneak peek into the inspiration behind James’ Innovation II piece, Heure de Fermeture (“Closing Time”), which was sparked by a transformative family trip to Scotland and a memorable evening spent immersing himself in the Edinburgh community.

About James Wainwright

Born in Chicago, Illinois, James Wainwright grew up around his mother’s dance studio. James started his professional training at the School of Ballet 5:8 under the tutelage of former Ballet 5:8 Ballet Mistress Lauren Ader-Cumpston, Trainee and Studio Company Director Brette Benedict, and Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager. In 2016, Wainwright trained at The Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory Summer Intensive, learning from Tim Melady, Eleanor D’Antuono, and Kirk Peterson. After graduating high school, James joined Ballet 5:8’s Trainee Program in 2018, then became a Company Artist 2020. James joined the company in 2023.

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/brollerina/

See Heure de Fermeture by James in Innovation II @ Overture Center Promenade Hall May 8-10, 2026

🎟️ madisonballet.org/innovation-ii

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Credits

PODCAST COVER PHOTO: Matthew Ulrich

DANCER: Madison Ballet Company Artist Lauren Thompson

MUSIC: Capet String Quartet - Ravel (Col. D 15057-60) 1928

JAMES HEADSHOT: Lexia Frank Photography