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.
Categories: Ballet