Janek Schergen, a Swede who served as ballet master with the likes of Pennsylvania Ballet, Washington Ballet and Royal Swedish Ballet, never meant to live in Singapore.

But after being persuaded by his friend—the late great Singaporean choreographer Goh Choo San— to help debut one of its earliest professional dance companies in the 1980s, Janek finally set down roots here in 2008 as its artistic director. He has since created professional opportunities for local dancers, donated his own money to its development, and lifted Singapore Ballet to international standing.

WATCH MORE Singaporean At Heart:    • Singaporean At Heart | Full Episodes  

0:00 Introducing Janek Schergen
1:05 Janek’s early years
3:44 Goh Choo San and initial ties to Singapore
7:00 Becoming artistic director of Singapore Dance Theatre
9:11 Taking Singapore Ballet to international standing
9:50 Why Janek takes the bus
10:51 Behind the scenes of Singapore Ballet
12:58 Janek’s artistic ‘daughter’
15:22 Why Singapore Ballet is different from other companies
19:55 The Swedish concept of society before individuality

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About the show: For decades, they have quietly contributed to Singapore in healthcare, social service, philanthropy and the arts. Join presenter Jo Tan to find out what they do, what drives them and why they consider themselves Singaporeans at heart.
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