I recently had the chance to ask Sofya Shakhovets some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Sofya is an incredible dancer, she graces the stage with grace and elegance, her passion and love for ballet is unmatched. Below are her responses.
Q1: When did you start ballet?
I started ballet at maybe 3 years old, but wasn’t too serious about it until I was 8-9.
Q2: Where do you currently dance?
I currently dance at the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washington, D.C.
Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?
I have been on pointe for about 5 years, although much of the first year was exercises only at the barre.
Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?
I currently wear Grishko 2007’s size 5 xx with a medium shank
Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?
My mom is a ballet teacher! So, I was always surrounded by it from a young age.
Q6: What is your favourite variation?
My favorite variation is Nikiya’s Death variation from La Bayadere.
Q7: What company would you love to work for?
My absolute dream company would have to be Mariinsky, they are incredible!
Q8: Do you have a favourite memory/moment in ballet?
No, not really.
Q9: Who are your ballet roles models? Dancers that inspire you.
My favorite ballet dancers would have to be Oksana Skorik, Diana Vishneva and Ulyana Lopatkina. I also am incredibly inspired by Joy Womack’s journey as a professional dancer!
Q10: Best advice you’ve ever received from a teacher?
Probably, “dancing in itself should be very freeing and easy! pointing your feet, stretching your knees, yes that is all very difficult but actually dancing should be from the heart!”
Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?
Classical Tutu
Q12: What do you like to do when you aren’t dancing (your free time)?
I enjoy cooking with my mom, planning, shopping, Pilates, and sometimes if I have time, I like to read!
Categories: Ballet