You may know Mark Ballas as the handsome, dark-haired professional dancer on ABC's top-rated show "Dancing with the Stars". In the 2011 season, Mark Ballas is partnered with Chelsea Kane, from the Disney network. To duo seems to be well-loved by fans and continues to do well in the competition.
Background
There is more to Mark Ballas than meets the eye. Not only is he an exquisite, trained dancer, Mark is also is a trained musician. At a very young age he began to attend the world-renowned Italia Conti Performing Arts School in London. It was there that Mark flourished as an artist.
Being from a family of international dance stars, Mark was soon writing and performing his own music, as well as dancing professionally. Mark's instrument of choice is the guitar, taking his style from artists like John Mayer, Kurt Cobain, and Eric Clapton.
Professional Life
Mark has been on dancing with the stars for over seven years. He made headlines when he danced with former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin's daughter, Bristol Palin, in the 2010 season. The two almost made it to the final round. In addition to his work with dancing with the stars, Mark also has acted in several musicals including Copacabana. He has done some television acting as well, guest starring on "Samantha who?" And "Melissa and Joey."
Mark has a passion for music. His debut album was released on March 1, 2011. HurtLoveBox covers a young man's journey through life and relationships. The album was released by Hit Play Records, a division of Sony. As of April 2011, Mark's music was available for digital download online.
Community Service
In addition to being a talented performer and entertainer, Mark takes his time to serve the community. In the off-season dancing with the stars, Mark visited several schools 2010 discussing the issue of acceptance amongst the children. This passion for speaking to children came about as a result of a family member's suicide. Mark is currently in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Mark and his mother Shirley founded The Ballas Foundation in 2010 to raise awareness, funds and support for the issue of suicide in the United States. Similar to his dancing style, Mark keeps his suicide prevention talks light, fun and engaging. Rather than talking about the darker side of suicide, Mark focuses on positive ways that children can accept each other and interact with each other.
A multifaceted talent, Mark Ballas is a young man on a mission, to entertain, create memorable music, and rally support for children and families struggling with the issue of suicide.
Source:
Ekaete Bailey - E. Bailey
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