I recently had the pleasure of asking Gabi Lukasik some questions about her incredible journey as a ballerina. Gabi is an incredible ballerina, she dances with poise and elegantly, she graces the stage so beautifully. Her dedication and passion for ballet is unparalleled. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet at the age of three.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently dance at Colorado Ballet, as a member of their Pre-Professional Division.

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been en pointe for about five and a half years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Grishko 2007s.

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

When I was younger, I loved watching Angelina Ballerina. I decided that I wanted to be a ballerina just like her, and begged my parents to enroll me in ballet classes.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

It’s so hard to choose! Some of my favorites are Kitri Act 1, Odette’s variation, Aurora’s Birthday variation, Coppelia Act 3, and Grand Pas Classique.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to work for Tulsa Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Houston Ballet, Colorado Ballet, Royal Ballet… I have so many dream companies, but as long as I get to do what I love everyday, I’m not too picky!

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

My favorite memory in ballet would have to be performing Grand Pas Classique at World Ballet Competition last summer. It was the first time that I went onstage hoping simply to enjoy myself and make the audience happy, and it ended up being the best time I had ever danced that variation. I cried tears of joy after; it was so liberating and amazing to dance with the intent of enjoying every second, rather than freaking out about performing.

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

Some of my favorite ballerinas are Maria Mosina, Marianela Nuñez, Iana Salenko, Misa Kuranaga, and more!

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

The best advice I have received from a teacher is that, when you go onstage, you have nothing to prove. You only have your passion and joy to share with the audience. This has helped me immensely because, as are most dancers, I am a perfectionist and get so caught up in the little things during a performance.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I love both, but I would rather wear a classical tutu. It makes me feel like a real ballerina!

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

I don’t get a lot of time off, but when I do, I like to read, watch movies, go hiking, go shopping, and spend time with my friends and family.