EP 12: Company Secrets with Gillian Murphy: Prima Ballerina and Icon

Company Secrets: Ballet Unfiltered

Company Secrets: Ballet Unfiltered
EP 12: Company Secrets with Gillian Murphy: Prima Ballerina and Icon
Oct 21, 2025
Jared Redick

In this season finale, Jared sits down with the incomparable Gillian Murphy, whose extraordinary 29-year career with American Ballet Theatre made her one of the defining ballerinas of her generation. From Swan Lake to new works by Ratmansky and Wheeldon, Gillian reflects on her remarkable journey—what it means to dance with freedom, the power of presence, and the perspective that comes from a lifetime on stage.

Now retired from performing and serving as Artistic Associate at American Repertory Ballet, she opens up about motherhood, identity, and how she’s channeling her artistry into teaching and leadership. It’s an inspiring, candid conversation about transition, purpose, and what it means to continue growing beyond the spotlight.

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