I recently had the opportunity to ask Tianna Koolloos some questions about her incredible journey as a ballerina. Tianna is an amazing dancer, she graces the stage with poise and elegance, her passion and dedication to ballet is phenomenal. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet at the age of 3.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently am studying at The Conlan College in Sydney Australia soon to be moving to Chicago go study at the Joffrey Academy full time

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I’ve been on pointe since the age of 10 so I’ve been on pointe for 6 years. But many ups and downs while on pointe due to bone stress in the second metatarsal that prevented me from going on pointe for half a year

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I am currently wearing Repetto pointe shoes, I love them definitely my favourite pointe shoe atm

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I first got involved in ballet at the age of 3 because I was always dancing around the house so Mum thought it would be a good idea to put me in ballet and here we are today!

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

finding a favourite variation is hard because I love them all but I really enjoyed the soft more quiet variations that show feeling.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to work for Joffrey Chicago as they have a diverse repertoire. The company members are amazing as well! But there are so many company’s out there in the world that are doing so amazing works at the moment

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

I have so many amazing ballet moments and memories but definitely being taught by some of the worlds best teachers and choreographers is a highlight and anytime I get to dance on stage is a pretty magical and memorable.

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

I have again many ballet role models but someone who I look up to and is an amazing mentor to me is Dusty Button. She has taught me so much and how to dance and step out of your comfort zone. I love how she doesn’t change who she is the fit into this so called “ballet world” she is who she is and I truly look up to that. She is a humble and genuine person and she Is lovely to be around. I’m so thankful to have met her and for her guidance into this crazy ballet world.

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

One of the best advice I have been given by a teacher is to breathe and believe. We all go through those stage in life where you don’t believe in yourself and having this person right beside me along the way to help me through all the rough patches really meant a lot

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical

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

I love to hang with friends and family when I’m not dancing. It’s so nice to just unwind and do something not related to dance. But I really like sleeping in my free time. Hahaha