I recently asked Vanessa Meikle some questions about her journey as a ballerina. She is an incredible dancer, she graces the stage with real poise and beauty, her passion and dedication to ballet is amazing. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 6 years old but did gymnastic and other little dance classes when I was younger than that.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently train at the Hartt School Community Division

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been on pointe since I was almost 11, so 5 years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, they work so well for me!

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I first got involved in ballet because I was in gymnastics, and they told my mom I was too long and didn’t have enough upper body strength so I should try ballet :).

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favorite variation I have performed is either the Swanilda Act 3 variation from Copelia, or Gamzatti from La Bayadere. My favorite variation of all time is La Cigarette!

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

My dream company is the Mariinsky or Bolshoi, but in America I would love to dance for ABT.

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

My favorite memory is when I realized that working hard accomplished something. I realized you can’t get anywhere if you don’t work for it.

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

Dancers that inspire me are Daria Ionova, Maria Katchkova, Ulyana Lopatkina, and Isabella Boylston.

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

The best advice I have ever received from a teacher was to look at yourself in the mirror every morning and say “I am a prima ballerina”. It’s so cheesy, but it helps give yourself confidence and the ability to perform like you really are a principle dancer.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I like both, but romantic tutus are prettier in my opinion. Classical tutus give a stronger vibe though.

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

I like to listen to music, and teach myself piano. I also love poetry, but most of all in my free time I go over choreography and watch youtube videos about ballet. I love the Russian documentaries and Kathryn Morgan 🙂