I had the chance recently to ask Ella Roper some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Ella is an amazing dancer, she graces the stage with incredible poise and grace, her passion and dedication for ballet is unmatched. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 3.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I currently train full time at Tanya Pearson Academy.

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been dancing en pointe for almost 5 years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Bloch pointe shoes in the styles ‘Grace’ and ‘Serenade Strong’.

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I first got involved in ballet as a way to improve my social skills with other kids in preparation for school.

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favourite variation would definitely have to be either Black or White Swan – I love them both!

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I don’t mind where – as long as I’m dancing I am happy, but if I had to choose I’d love to be in the Royal Ballet, English National, American Ballet Theatre or Paris Opera just to name a few of my favourites.

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

I love the feeling of dancing on stage and whenever I nail an exercise in class.

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

My ballet role models are Sylvie Guillem, Svetlana Zakharova, Natalia Osipova, Maria Khoreva, Alina Somova, Iana Salenko, Yasmin Naghdi, Marianela Núñez and Diana Vishneva.

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

One of my teachers told us that the work we put in is what we’ll get out which inspires me to work harder and always give 110%.

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

I love both as they suit different things but prefer classical tutus.

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

In my spare time I like to read, watch movies, cook, draw, walk, take photos and do pilates.