I had the chance recently to ask India Shackel some questions about her journey as a ballerina. India is a fantastic dancer, she graces the stage with elegance and strength. Her passion and dedication to ballet is incredible. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 3

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I am currently dancing at the Fiona Haines dance academy

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been en pointe for almost 3 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Bloch European Balance and the Energetiks Encore

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I started doing fairy ballet when I was 3 and then I fell in love with ballet

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favorite bariation is definitely Giselle, and the Sugar Plum fairy

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to dance with the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the Royal Ballet London

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

One of my favorite dancing memories would have to be when a few others and I were invited to perform in the New Zealand School of Dance graduation session opening act at the St James Theatre, another amazing dancing memory was when I performed in the 2018 AHA Awards at the St James Theatre

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

Hannah O’Neil and Steven McRae are two very inspirational dancers who I aspire to be like one day

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

The best advice that I’ve heard from a teacher is to focus on my goals and to not worry about what other people are doing and their achievements but to work hard and believe

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I love both Romantic tutus and classical tutus! They are both so gorgeous and look amazing!!!!!!!!

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

When I am not dancing I love to spend time exercising and going on walks with my family, I also love cooking and reading, Pilates stretch and conditioning and yoga are such a fun relaxing thing to do especially with my family, I also love spending time out side with my family and friends.