Dancer Dylan Barone on THE LITTLE PRINCE
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s novella The Little Prince has been a global favourite since its initial publishing in 1943.
Although a children’s book at heart, the story of a young boy exploring the universe has transcended age and has gone on to become one of the best selling and most translated books of all time. An exploration of loneliness, love, friendship, and loss, the poignant story carries a message that everyone can enjoy – and now, they can see it live on stage.
The stage production of The Little Prince has been delighting Sydney audiences with its inventive combination of choreography, music, and aerial skill, and must close this weekend before heading to Broadway in March.
French born Dylan Barone plays the roles of The King and The Fox in the show. A graduate of the Angélique Valenti Dance School in Vallauris and the International Academy of Dance in Paris, some of Dylan’s past credits include Leila, the Land of Imagination – Balich Worldwide show (Show Director/Anne Tournié), Puzzle by Jeune Ballet Européen company at Théâtre du Gymnase Marybell, and Pure project by Christian Bakalov. Having been part of The Little Prince since 2018, he is excited to be returning to the show once again.
Can you tell me a bit about your history with dance?
Dylan: I’ve started dancing pretty late, I was 17 years old, and I directly fell in love with dance. I had only dance in mind, I was taking all the classes that I could at my school, even if I was the older or the only guy… the fact that I knew I started late gave me the strength and the fire to keep working and always push further.
What has been the most challenging part of working on The Little Prince?
Dylan: Learning the Little Prince role was definitely the most challenging… As a dancer, I had never done aerial straps before, I had only a few months to practice and create an artistic piece with Anne for the show. Also playing a character who is the first role of the show was not easy, because I was not comfortable with acting before that. I really learned A LOT.
And the most exciting?
Dylan: I think I would say that the most exciting is that we get to travel all around the world, performing, dancing, in front of an audience. That is priceless. The love we get from the public during and at the end of a show is really heartwarming
How do you switch between the roles of the King and the Fox?
Dylan: I won’t say it’s an easy thing, but there is only one thing you need to experiment: don’t try to play the character, just be the character. You really have to live in the present. It’s not about learning steps for choreography in The Little Prince, it’s about life.
What advice do you have for aspiring dancers?
Dylan: Always work hard, believe in yourself and be proud of every step you make. If dancing becomes your job, always keep the fire and the passion of the beginning, remember what you love about dancing.
Why should audiences come and see The Little Prince?
Dylan: I would say that the audiences should really see The Little Prince and follow him towards his wonderful adventure while he meets the aviator, the rose, the fox and all the characters. You will see him passing through friendships, love, loneliness… And to see him facing these feelings in the eyes of a child will maybe make you question life yourself.
The Little Prince plays until Jan 23 at the Sydney Coliseum. Click here for tickets and more information.
