I recently had the chance to ask Skylar Bainard some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Skylar is a phenomenal dancer, she graces the stage with incredible poise and grace, her passion and love for ballet is incredible. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 12 (kinda late)

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I dance in Toronto

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

Been en pointe for 4 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Gaynor Minden!

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I was actually picking between singing and dancing lessons, out of the blew I just decided to go for dance😂 I’ve been dancing and choreographing for as long as I can remember though, always putting on “shows”!

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favourite variation is Gamzatti act 2 variation from La Bayadere!

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

There are so many amazing companies I’d love to work for! But in regards to my favourite companies that would have to be “National Ballet of Canada”, “Dutch National Ballet” and “Australian Ballet Theatre”!

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

I gain new favourite memories everyday! But a memorable one has to be winning first place contemporary at YAGP Toronto!

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

I’m very inspired by Maria Alexandrova from Bolshoi Theatre, she is such a passionate and strong dancer. I also love Natalia Osipova, she truely gives everything in her performances. And Jurgita Dronina has to be another one of my favourites she always looks so confident on stage!

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

From a teacher I had at Bolshoi, “ we dance because of our passion” this reminded me why I started in the first place 💃🏻

Q11: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical tutus! They really make me feel like a true ballerina!

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

In my free time I actually like to continue to work on my body, I love going for runs, doing yoga, stretching! But I also like cooking up new recipes, reading, journaling, and a lil Netflix and YouTube 😏!