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

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 3 years old.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently dance at Queen City Ballet with a former Houston Ballet professional : Campbell Midgley

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I’ve been en pointe for 5 years now!

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Grishko Novas💛

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My parents first put me in a ballet class. I treasured every minute of it and fell in love with the movement.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favorite variations at the moment are Walpurgisnacht and Flames of Paris! I did them for the Universal Ballet Competition this past year.

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to work for the Paris Opera Ballet Company in the future. It’s my dream!

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

My favorite memory/ moment in ballet was when I first arrived at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow at the age of 13. I felt so accomplished and proud that I had made it that far to pursue my dream.

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

Svetlana Zakharova, Joy Womack, and Natalia Osipova all inspire me! 😍

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

The best advice I’ve ever received from a teacher is, “put all of your heart and soul into your dancing. If you are having a terrible day, come into the studio and have the courage to let go and just dance. Let the music overwhelm you with emotion.”

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

BOTH!💕

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

When I’m not dancing, I love spending time with my two younger sisters(they also dance!) and playing with Nikiya (my puppy💗)