I recently had the opportunity to ask Isabelle Lapierre some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Isabelle is an amazing dancer, she graces the stage with poise and grace, her passion and love for ballet is phenomenal. Below are her responses

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started dancing when I was two, but I started training more formal at the age of 7.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I dance at the BalletMet Dance Academy in Columbus, Ohio

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been en pointe since I was ten, so four years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Freed Studios, but I am still searching for the perfect shoe!

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

Instead of watching Teletubbies or baby shows like that, my mom would play DVD’s of all the great ballets, starring dancers like Mikhail Baryshnikov and Margot Fonteyn. I would get up and dance and run around en pointe! My mom knew she had to put me in a class!

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I have so many favorites! I especially love Balanchine’s Tchaikovsky Pas De Deux variation and the Medora variation from Le Corsaire.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

As different as they are- I have always loved the works and the dancers of The Royal Ballet and New York City Ballet.

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

When Mr. Edward Liang gave me the opportunity to dance as the “White Cat” in his world premiere of The Sleeping Beauty was a moment I will never forget. It was such an amazing experience to be the only child to dance a role in the third act and have him trust me with the responsibility of a role traditionally danced by a company member.

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

Tiler Peck. Hands down. Live, she is one of the most bright and spectacular dancers. Her talent shakes me to the core.

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

A teacher once told me before I went on stage, “Let go, and dance.” and it has stuck with me ever since.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical.

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

When am I not dancing?! Honestly… I love to do makeup, shop, and hang out with my friends! I am a total girly girl!