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

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started doing some recreational classes a few times a week classes when I was 12 and started my ballet training when I was 13.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

Last year I danced at Nutmeg Conservatory and this fall I will be starting Ballet Chicago.

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

4 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

Grishko Novas

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I really just wanted to have some fun and gain some coordination. I could have never guessed it would have evolved into such a passion.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

Nikiya’s Death

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

Honestly, any company. My ultimate dream/favorite company is Netherlands Dance Theater. I also love Oregon Ballet Theatre and Spectrum Dance Theater.

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

My favorite memory was definitely the first time I performed on stage. I felt so empowered to have everyone’s attention. I absolutely loved the feeling of being on stage with the exuberant energy of my classmates, the stimulation of the music, and the soft heat of the stage lights. Knowing that I was doing something that others were watching and possibly enjoying was incredible to me.

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

My favorite ballerina has to be Maria Kowroski. She has such a captivating and elegant approach to movement. Another role model is Michaela DePrince. Her dancing is so ferocious, while still being sensitive and intricate.

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

The art of Dance comes from the passion within, so don’t try to be a carbon copy of someone else. We each possess something completely unique and once we honor our special gifts, passion will lead us to dance in our most authentic form. On a more technical level, a teacher once told me that the secret to feeling completed rooted and on my leg was to: 1) feel entire the foot on the ground and imagine it melting into the floor to find maximize stability. 2) Value Plié! The first thing you should find in class/warmup is plié. Think of making each demi plié larger.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I love a good romantic tutu!

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

I love to spending time laughing and having fun with my family and friends. I also like to play my ukulele, ride my bike, or read a good book.