A passion for dance, a tolerance for pain.

• Position: Q&A - Jordan Laris Cohen at American Ballet Theatre's Summer Intensive Training program - Brief Article - Interview

Last summer, 14-year-old Jordan Laris Cohen of San Diego packed four pairs of black tights and six pairs of ballet shoes, and headed to New York. He had won a scholarship to American Ballet Theatre's Summer Intensive Training program. Laris Cohen spoke to UPFRONT about his experiences in the dance world.

What's it like to be a guy in the dance world?

It's really nice, actually.... There are so few guys that they really cherish you and value having you there.

How do your peers feel about it?

When I was younger there was a little teasing and things, but now, people ... are sort of interested and they find it fascinating.

What did you get out of the program this summer?

Well, I got a lot better, but it also really was a big exposure to what's out there...