I recently had the opportunity to ask Daniela Thorne some questions about her incredible journey as a ballerina. Daniela is a phenomenal dancer, she graces the stage with poise and grace, her passion and dedication for ballet is unmatched. Below are her responses.
Q1: When did you start ballet?
I started ballet at age 4
Q2: Where do you currently dance?
I currently train at UNCSA (University of North Carolina School for the Arts) and I love it.
Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?
I have been en pointe for 5 years now.
Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?
I wear Freed Classic Pro 90 (Hearts)
Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?
My mother was a ballet dancer, so she enrolled me.
Q6: What is your favourite variation?
Hard to say, I love Giselle Act 1, but I also love the Odette variation in Act 2 of Swan Lake, and of course Kitri Act 3.
Q7: What company would you love to work for?
I hate to narrow myself down when I have no idea what the future holds. I admire so many companies, but it really ends depends on what companies are looking for at the time and what will work best for me. Ultimately I want to be in a place that makes me happy so that I keep improving and become the best version of myself as a dancer and a person.
Q8: Do you have a favourite memory/moment in ballet?
I remember performing at the final round at Yagp in 2017 at age 14 at the David Koch theater. The stage was so big and there were over 2 thousand people in the audience and the energy from the crowd was unreal. My whole experience in Lausanne was a huge part of my growth as a dancer and definitely one of my favorite memories as well.
Q9: Who are your ballet roles models? Dancers that inspire you.
I always draw inspiration from watching current dancers such as Marianela Nunez, and of course Gillian Murphy (who I am fortunate enough to call my friend).
Q10: Best advice you’ve ever received from a teacher?
Always show why you love dance, and most importantly who you are.
Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?
Classical 🙂
Q12: What do you like to do when you aren’t dancing (your free time)?
I LOVE to read and write! Journaling always helps me relax and reading inspires me and takes me somewhere else whenever life gets me a little stressful.
Categories: Ballet