I had the opportunity to ask the phenomenal Vanessa Childress some questions about her journey as a ballerina. She is an incredible dancer who owns the stage when she dances and dances so effortlessly and elegantly. Vanessa’s dedication to ballet is unmatched. There is no doubt we world will love know of Vanessa and she will inspire the next generation of ballerinas. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 2 years old.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I am currently dancing at International Ballet School, but next year I will be going to Escola Artística de Dança do Conservatório Nacional in Lisbon, Portugal

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been on pointe for about 8 years now.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Grishko 2007 Pro Flex

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

When I was 2 years old my mom had put me in ballet classes at the Rex center and I always loved to dance, but when I was 15 I knew that I wanted to pursue ballet as a career.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favourite is either Giselle’s Variation or Harp Variation from Paquita

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

Royal Ballet, Bolshoi Ballet or Polish National Ballet

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

My favourite memory in ballet is the year that I performed Clara in the Nutcracker and I after the show I just started crying because it was the most fun I’ve ever had on stage.

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

Dancers that have inspired me the most in my dancing as in an artist is Svetlana Zakarhova, Marianela Núñez, and so many other talented artists!!!

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

Ballet isn’t just about the technique, it’s about the story and emotions you bring to people.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I love romantic tutus!!!!

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

I love yoga, photography, and relaxing when I’m not dancing, which is very rare!!!