I had the chance recently to ask Marsden Cousins some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Marsden is an amazing dancer, she graces the stage with incredible poise and elegance, her passion and love for ballet is infectious. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started dancing when I was 2 but seriously doing ballet at age 10

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I dance at Edge Studios in their pre professional program

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been on pointe for 3.5 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Freed pointe shoes (triangle or anchor makers)

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I got seriously involved in ballet when I was 10 and my ballet teacher encouraged me to audition for summer schools

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I have a few favourites but I will say Paquita variation #11 and Talisman

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

My dream company would be the Marinsky or any company in Europe

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

This past summer when I attended Paris Opera ballet school, Princess Grace academy, and royal ballet school summer intensives would have to be my favourite memory. This summer was an amazing experience and I learned so much and will remember it for ever. One other amazing moment was having privates with Leonid Sarafanov and taking his class

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

One ballet dancer that really inspires me is Olesya Novikova she is such a beautiful dancer and artist and I really hope I can watch her in person one day.

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

My teachers always tell me not to compare myself to others which I think has been some of the best advice they have given me. They tell me to worry about myself and what I am doing and not compare myself to the people around me.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I prefer classical tutu but also find romantic tutus very beautiful.

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

When I’m not dancing I am either sleeping or watching Netflix and recently I have been reading during my free time.