I recently had the chance to ask Hanhi Tran some questions about her amazing journey as a ballerina. Hanhi is an incredible dancer, she graces the stage with incredible poise and grace. Her dedication and love for ballet is unmatched. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

My parents put me into ballet at the age of 3, but I hated it until I was about 11 years old.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washington DC

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

5 years, since I was 10

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

Grishko 2007’s and Grishko Dream Pointe

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My parents put me in ballet just for fun, as an after school activity. I was a very loud and embarrassing little girl and they thought that ballet could teach me how to be more polite, calm and graceful.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

Giselle Act 1

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

My dream companies are Mariinsky, San Fransisco Ballet and the Royal Ballet!

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

Dancing with the Mariinsky theatre in their La Bayadere as one of the two Manu girls!

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

All of my friends at the Kirov Academy, May Nagahisa and Svetlana Zakharova!

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

To always believe in yourself!

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Romantic Tutu!

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

I love playing UNO with my friends and going out with them to eat!