I recently had the chance to ask Shani Wilkens some questions about her wonderful journey as a ballerina. Shani is an amazing dancer, she graces the stage so elegantly and with real poise. Her passion and dedication for ballet is incredible. Below are her answers.
Q1: When did you start ballet?
I started dancing when I was 7 years old.
Q2: Where do you currently dance?
I currently dance with Queensland Ballet Academy.
Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?
I got my first pair of pointe shoes when I was 11.
Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?
I currently wear Energetics Sapfir Flex Medium.
Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?
My younger sister started and when I saw that she was enjoying I wanted to join in.
Q6: What is your favourite variation?
My favourite variation would have to be Odalisque 3rd Variation from Le Corsaire.
Q7: What company would you love to work for?
I would really love to be apart of The Queensland Ballet when I’m old enough.
Q8: Do you have a favourite memory/moment in ballet?
My favourite memory was either when I performed at the Alana Haines Australasian Awards or the Sydney Eisteddfod.
Q9: Who are your ballet roles models? Dancers that inspire you.
Some dancers that inspire me are Margot Fonteyn, Misty Copeland and Li Cunxin.
Q10: Best advice you’ve ever received from a teacher?
Don’t practice until you get it right, practice until you can’t get in wrong.
Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?
I prefer a classical tutu although I do enjoy dancing in both.
Q12: What do you like to do when you aren’t dancing (your free time)?
I really like reading and drawing and spending time with my family and friends.
Categories: Ballet