I recently had the opportunity to ask one of my favourite Instagram dancers some questions about her time as a ballerina. Stephanie is an amazing dancer, her poise and dedication to ballet is incredible and she’s an incredibly kind person. The joy she gets from dancing is immense and that is easily evident from anyone who watchers her dance. Below are her responses.

Instagram: stephanieballerina

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was a baby, I took mommy and me dance classes and from there just kept going.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently dance at Adamson’s ballet, but after this summer I will be dancing at the University of Oklahoma.

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I’ve been en pointe for somewhere around 6 years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Suffolk sonnets.

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I first got involved through mommy and me classes as a child.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

Lilac fairy from sleeping beauty.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

Honestly at this point I’m not sure that I have a preference, I’d love to dance pretty much anywhere.

Q8: Do you have a favourite memory/moment in ballet?

My favourite memories from ballet are all about my friends and I laughing and being silly together in the dressing rooms before class.

Q9: Who are your ballet roles models? Dancers that inspire you.

Maria Khoreva and Dusty Button.

Q10: Best advice you’ve ever received from a teacher?

You will never be perfect, there is always something for you to grow on. Even as a professional there will always be things you have to practice and fix. That’s what makes ballet so hard but so worth your time.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical.

Q12: What do you like to do when you aren’t dancing (your free time)?

When I’m not dancing I’m most likely hanging out with my friends or sleeping.