I recently had the chance to ask Zara Worne some questions about her fantastic journey as a ballerina. Zara is an excellent dancer, she graces the stage with poise and grace. Her passion and love for ballet is unmatched. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

When I was 4

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently dance at The Conlan College

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

5 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear jet stream (which I love!)

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My mum enrolled me in dance to begin with and I was involved in all styles such as tap, jazz, musical theatre, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, hip hop. I was involved with all of these until I was about 15 then I decided to focus on Ballet only.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favourite variation would be from the Ballet Cinderella “fairy godmothers variation at the ball”

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to work for Sydney dance company as they have contemporary and neo-classical options

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

One of my favourite memories in ballet would be when I first learnt to pirouette en pointe! I had been so scared to try it, even though pirouettes on flat are strong for me and I enjoy them. I was in an open class and had no choice but to just try them and it was so exciting when I realized I could do it! I felt so free yet strong, it was amazing!

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

Misty Copeland is a major role model to me as she showed the ballet world that being strong and physically muscly is not something to be ashamed of but to embrace! There are major issues with eating disorders and appearance in the Ballet World and she has proved that being healthy and strong is far more beneficial! Her artistry is phenomenal, Misty is a joy to watch!

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

The best advice I received from a teacher was “don’t try to dance better than anyone else what matters is that you strive to dance your best.” This changed my whole frame of mind and work ethic for the better and I stopped comparing myself to others.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Romantic!!, it reminds me of one of my favourite ballet’s Giselle. The longer tutus are simply divine and look beautiful on stage.

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

When I’m not dancing I work part time, keep active at the gym, and spend all of summer at the beach!