I recently had the pleasure of asking the amazing Sasha Dreyer some questions about her incredible journey as a ballerina. Sasha is an amazing dancer. She graces the stage with real poise and grace. Her passion and dedication for ballet is phenomenal. Sasha will no doubt inspire the next generation of dancers. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 3 years old.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently dance at the ‘Akademie des Tanzes’ Mannheim, Germany.

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been on pointe for almost 7 years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear ‘Sansha Ovation 3/4’ pointe shoes.

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

From a young age I was always drawn to dancing and ballet in particular. I was a big fan of the children’s cartoon “Angelina Ballerina” and the show really sparked my love at the young age. I begged my parents to let me take ballet lessons and from that moment on I never stopped.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I really love Raymonda’s dream variation and wish to perform it one day.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

At this point in my life I can’t name just one particular company I would work for but my big dream is to work for a large well established ballet company. To name a few… Staatsballet Berlin, English National Ballet, The Australian Ballet, ABT.

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

My favourite memories are usually performances! The feeling you get when the audience is applauding is unlike anything else and it makes me feel so grateful for what I do. My annual end of year performances I did when I was younger and studying at home are memories that I always cherish and the performances were something I looked forward to every year. Most recently I was able to perform in a ballet gala in Karlsruhe, Germany and that was most definitely an unforgettable moment. Being able to take class, watch, and meet some of the most incredible dancers of this time was undeniably a moment to never forget.

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

I am really big fan of Natalia Osipova. Just like her, I am small myself and she has proven to be one that could not be missed with insane Allegro and height in her jumps along with a very charismatic stage presence.

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

The best advice I’ve ever received from a teacher is to know what you are good at and show yourself off! As we know, everyone has strengths and weaknesses and the best thing we can do is work with what we have. Aspects such as coordination and port de bras come very natural to me and so I have learnt to use these positive traits in order to present myself in the best way possible, even if I haven’t naturally been gifted with everything a ballet dancer would hope for.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

This is a hard choice to make! To be honest I am a fan of both but I may have to go with the classical tutu.

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

When I’m not dancing, I enjoy going out with my friends, especially outside like a park or pool in the summer. During the colder months I enjoy cooking and baking with them too. I have also recently gotten into podcasts and so I enjoy my alone time relaxing on my days off while still getting in a bit of education and enlightenment.