I recently had the chance to ask Sophia Panchal-Bird some questions about her journey as a dancer and more specifically about ballet. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

When I was 3

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I dance at Arts 1 School of Performance

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

2 years (I started dancing seriously quite late)

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

Russian pointe Bravas

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My mum took me to a class and I fell in love with it.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

Esmeralda

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

Northern Ballet Company (UK)

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

My first time en pointe was very special I’d worked very hard to there so was very proud!

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

I’m impaired by Avery Gay and of course Darcy Bussell!

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

Don’t be afraid of falling/making mistakes because it’s the best way to learn

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical Tutu

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

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