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

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I got involved with ballet when I was around 9 years old but didn’t get serious until much much later.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I dance with Next Generation Ballet in Tampa, Florida but I want to dance with Houston Ballet. (I’m currently at an in between stage and looking to take a step towards getting into a company)

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I’ve been en pointe for 7 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Suffolk Spotlights!

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I started dancing because my sister was dancing. My mom asked if I wanted to try it so she put me in. I honestly didn’t really like it at first 😂

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I loveeee Kitri act 3 and Raymondas Dream variation

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I have many, but I would love to dance for Houston Ballet or Miami City Ballet

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

That ones difficult to answer, I don’t think I could pick one moment specifically, I’ve had so many, both good and bad, that have made me who I am.

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

I adore Marianela Nunez, Iana Salenko, Maria Kotchekova and Karina Gonzolez

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

I’ve had different teachers over the years tell me many different things that I love, but there have been a few who have said this one thing in similar ways, so I’ve kind of put it together how I’ve learned to interpret it from different people: Sometimes we worry so much about what we look like on the outside that we forget about what’s happening within. You have to dance from the inside out otherwise all you’re doing is making positions. The difference between a good dancer and a great one is when they dance from the heart

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!! I’m also into art and painting.