I recently had the chance to ask Gracie Joiner some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Graice is an amazing dancer, she graces the stage with incredible poise and elegance. Her passion and dedication for ballet is phenomenal. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 12, which was almost 4 years ago.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

Atlanta Academy of Ballet and Dance, but I have been accepted to the HARID Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida.

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been en pointe for about 3 years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Russian Pointe Rubins.

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I used to be a hip-hop, tap, and jazz competition dancer and when I moved, I just decided on a whim to go to a ballet studio and I have loved it ever since.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I love Pas de E’sclave and Odalisque variation 2.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

Any company if I am honest. I do love Louisville Ballet which is where I spent my first summer intensive

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

Yes! When I was dancing as Aurora, the Wedding Pas was the most fun I have ever had onstage and I am very fond of the performance.

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

Marianela Nuñez, Maria Kotchekova, Alessandra Ferri, and Isabella Boylston are people that really inspire me.

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

The best advice I’ve ever received from a teacher is to become comfortable being uncomfortable. It really helps when you want to drop your legs in adagio.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical tutu.

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

I love to read, stretch, and draw.