Witness the extraordinary talent of Dai Sakai, an exceptional ballet dancer renowned for his blend of native and classical styles. With a world-class level of expertise, Dai seamlessly integrates the ancient culture of Japan into the realm of classical ballet, captivating audiences worldwide.
Dai’s journey in ballet began at the age of 11, training at the esteemed Reiko Otsuka Ballet Studio under the guidance of Reiko Otsuka and Hideo Fukagawa. His dedication and passion quickly became evident, earning him accolades and recognition within the industry.
In 2006, Dai’s exceptional skills were honored with the Director’s Special Award and the Scholarship Award at the prestigious Japan Grand Prix. The following year, he furthered his studies on a scholarship at the renowned Goh Ballet Academy, solidifying his commitment to excellence. Dai’s remarkable talent was also acknowledged with a scholarship award at the Youth America Grand Prix.
Continuing his ascent in the ballet world, Dai achieved an impressive 1st place in the male senior category at The Ballet Tokyo in 2008. He then pursued further scholarship studies at The Washington School of Ballet, where he had the opportunity to perform in company productions of The Washington Ballet.
As a finalist at the Youth America Grand Prix in New York, Dai’s artistry and technical prowess were recognized on an international stage. In 2010, he joined the esteemed Momoko Tani Ballet Company, swiftly establishing himself as a soloist entrusted with major roles in productions like “La Bayadère,” “Swan Lake,” “Raymonda,” and “Lizette.”
Dai’s profound connection to his Japanese heritage is evident in his performances. He astounded audiences with his exceptional portrayals at the Japan Ballet Association performances, including the Young Ballet Festival’s “Paquita” in 2010, the “Swan Lake” Pas de Trois in 2013, and the “Sleeping Beauty” Bluebird in 2016.
In 2017, Dai embarked on a new chapter in his career, bidding farewell to the Momoko Tani Ballet Company to seek new horizons and expand his artistic repertoire. He achieved another milestone in 2019, being selected as the Japanese premiere cast for the role of Gerry Mulligan in the Shiki Theater Company’s musical “An American in Paris.” Under the direction and choreography of Christopher Wheeldon, Dai continues to captivate audiences with his exceptional talent in this groundbreaking production.
Dai’s artistic endeavors have transcended the boundaries of ballet, embracing diverse forms of expression such as musicals, jazz dance, and contemporary dance. As his career evolves, he is set to grace numerous stages, offering audiences a glimpse of his extraordinary artistry and boundless potential. The future holds great promise for this exceptional dancer as he continues to push the boundaries of his craft and captivate audiences worldwide.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness Dai Sakai’s breathtaking performance in “NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet.” Secure your Nutcracker tickets now and be part of this unforgettable experience. Visit our website or check local listings to find a Nutcracker performance near you, and prepare to be transported to a world of enchantment and beauty this holiday season.
