Biography

Dancing is a tough profession, but the knowledge that you can relieve people of their daily worries for a time makes it all worthwhile.

Bio 1
Le Corsaire Variation

1998-

Jan’s Childhood

Born in Ostrava, Czech Republic, Jan and his twin sister Anna discovered the joys of dance early in life. Despite ballet being an unconventional pastime for boys in their town, Jan’s ballet teacher recognised his talent and suggested auditioning for the ballet course at the Janáček Conservatory in Ostrava. His acceptance marked the beginning of rigorous training. During his first year, watching Mikhail Baryshnikov’s Don Quixote ignited his commitment. When his parents divorced, a few years later, his passion for dance was fuelled further. Amidst the ensuing financial difficulties, the ballet studio became his sanctuary, finding solace and an outlet for his creative spirit. 

Bio 2
Sleeping Beauty Variation

2014-

Leaping Forward

In 2014, driven by a desire for advanced training, Jan, at 16, auditioned for the English National Ballet in London in 2014, securing a scholarship and the support of the Rudolf Nureyev Foundation for his three years of dedicated study. His talent was swiftly recognised early on, winning third prize at the Tallinn International Ballet Competition (2014) and third prize and the Outstanding Artistry Award from Dance Europe Magazine at the Youth America Grand Prix in New York (2017).

Bio 3
With Arianna Maldini, Photo by Nina Tonoli

2018-

Career Beginnings

After graduating, he auditioned for several companies and began his professional career at Bayerisches Staatsballett in Munich. There, he met his partner, Arianna Maldini, a fellow dancer in the company. Seeking further career growth, Jan and Arianna together auditioned for Dutch National Ballet in 2019 and were both successfully accepted, leading them to a new chapter in Amsterdam.

Bio 4
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King with Anna Ol, Photo by Nina Tonoli

2019-

New Chapter in Amsterdam

Joining Dutch National Ballet in 2019, Jan quickly ascended to soloist, showcasing a versatile repertoire encompassing both classical and contemporary masterpieces. He has performed principal roles in ballets such as Nutcracker, Raymonda, Diamonds, Four Schumann Pieces, The Four Temperaments and many more. He has worked with some of the most influential choreographers in the ballet world, including William Forsythe, Hans van Manen, John Neumeier, Alexei Ratmansky, Christopher Wheeldon, Jiří Kylián and more. Jan’s artistic evolution continues as he broadens his repertoire and performs in international galas.

Reference

Nationale Opera & Ballet, Jan Spunda