Rococo Punch | iHeartPodcasts, 2024
Author(s): Erika Lantz, Elin Lantz Lesser and Emily Forman I Rococo Punch, iHeartPodcasts
This 10-part podcast series exposes hidden abuses and examines tensions within the ballet world.
It reveals the silent suffering of ballet dancers, who endure physical, emotional and sexual abuse under a culture that demands their silence and submission. The series challenges the idolized legacy of choreographer George Balanchine, uncovering allegations of control, harassment and exploitation of dancers. It explores the complexities of power dynamics and exclusion within ballet, addressing historical injustices and contemporary abuses.
Despite challenges in getting sources to talk because of fear of reprisal, the series meticulously corroborates allegations through multiple sources, including memoirs and personal histories. Using lush sound design and narrative techniques, it immerses listeners into the world of ballet, revealing its beauty alongside its trauma.
The series has been praised by publications such as The New York Times, The Atlantic and Jezebel. Letters from listeners poured in, some talking about how they never realized other people felt the same way and others thanking the reporters for creating something people could relate to, whether or not they were dancers, because of the human emotions and experiences of the issues being covered.
The podcast is audio reporting at its finest and has sparked widespread conversation that goes beyond the ballet community to highlight broader societal issues of control, gender and power dynamics. It serves as a crucial platform for survivors to voice their experiences and advocate for change within the industry.
Article by: Abbi Ross
Jack R. Howard is credited with expanding The E.W. Scripps Company’s presence in the field of broadcasting. In 1937, he was elected president of the Scripps radio company. Jack succeeded his father, Roy W. Howard, as president of Scripps-Howard in 1953. He retired in 1976.