I recently had the opportunity to ask Natalie Heinemyer some questions about her phenonenal journey as a ballerina. Natalie is an amazing dancer, she takes to the stage with incredible poise and grace, her passion and love for ballet is unparalelled. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

When I was almost 3.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

Ballet Theatre of Carmel Academy

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I got my first pointe shoes recommended by Tatiana Pali, just a couple months before my 11th birthday.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Russian Pointe Rubin and have for a couple years. They fit me the very best of any I have tried.

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

As a small child, my grandparents took me to the Nutcracker. I don’t remember it now, but they tell me, I stood the entire performance and danced in the aisle.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I enjoy variations from Swan Lake, both Odette and Odile.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I also love the dramatic variations from Raymonda.

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

I was so excited to receive a scholarship to train in France. This opportunity opened possibilities that led me to attend a Summer Intensive in Paris.

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

Svetlana  Zakharova, Iana Salenko and Daniil Simpkin are all amazing. I was fortunate enough to see Iana and Daniil perform live at the Indianapolis City Ballet Gala a couple years ago.

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

I don’t have answer for this

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I love the way a romantic tutu moves

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

Paper and pens! I enjoy calligraphy and drawing, making lists, plans and goals.