I had the opportunity recently to ask Jessica Conniff some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Jessica is a phenomenal dancer, she graces the stage with incredible poise and grace. Her passion and dedication for ballet is incredible. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started as a competition dancer at 3 years old but I started serious ballet training at 8.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I’m starting as a company dancer with San Diego Ballet in September

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I’ve been on pointe for 9 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Gaynor Minden

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My one sister was interested in ballet before I was. There was only one good school near my house about 45 minutes away so my mom brought all three of us, me and my two sisters, and after my first class I was hooked

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I have a couple favorites but recently I’ve been working on third shade from La Bayadere

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I’m a strong believer in everything happens for a reason but I really just want to end up in a company where I get a lot of opportunity and there’s a strong family atmosphere within the company

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

One of my favorite ballet moments was my first time on the MET stage when I was in ABT’s school. I got to dance as a willie in Giselle in the 75th anniversary spring gala.

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

Stella Abrera is so technically and artistically beautiful and an overall amazing human being. Also Francesca Hayward and Lauren Cuthbertson just a few of all the beautiful ladies we are lucky to have in the ballet world!

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

I think one of the greatest things I’ve learned is quality over quantity. In every aspect of ballet it’s important because the audience doesn’t care if you do 7 pirouettes and fall out of it for example! The beauty is in the quality of the movement!

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I like all types of tutus but I think I prefer classical!

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

When I’m not dancing I love hanging out with my friends trying new restaurants or shopping! I also love Pilates and am working on getting my license so I can teach!