I recently had the opportunity to ask Abby Zinsser some questions about her experience and journey as a ballerina. She is an amazing dancer, she graces the stage with real poise, grace and presence. Abby’s dedication to ballet is unmatched. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started dancing at the age of 2, but I didn’t train seriously until age 8.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I am currently a Trainee with The Nashville Ballet.

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I was 11 when I started pointe, so about 8 years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Bloch Hannahs.

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

According to my mom, I watched the Barbie Nutcracker movie one Christmas and would ask her every single day when I could start taking ballet classes. And I’ve been dancing ever since.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

Cupid variation from Don Quixote, Flames of Paris, and I also recently performed the Paquita variation and fell in love with it.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

Ever since I came to my first summer intensive at The Nashville Ballet back in 2014, I knew I wanted to be apart of this particular company. It has been such an honor to have had the opportunity to train there for the past two years and try to make that dream a reality.

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

One of the bet feelings I have ever had was having the opportunity to perform Paquita in Nashville Ballet’s Academy showcase. It was my first big principle role and it really pushed me to be the dancer that I am today.

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

Isabella Boylston, Maria Kochetkova, and Nashville Ballet company dancer Mollie Sansone

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

One of the best things that a teacher has told me is to understand that things are going to go wrong; in class and onstage. The smart dancers know how to mask those mistakes and most importantly move on from them.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical

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

I love to knit. I make all sorts of leg warmers and ankle warmers; and I actually just finished my first pair of socks. I also like to watch movies with my boyfriend.