I recently had the chance to ask Ava Tselios some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Ava is an incredible dancer, she graces the stage with poise and elegance, her passion and love for ballet is amazing. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I was about 5 years old!

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

The Hanover Theatre Conservatory in Worcester Massachusetts!

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I just started my second year!

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Nikolay 3007 Pros!

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My mom was a ballet dancer, and when I was little I loved to dance, so my mom signed me up and I fell in love!

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

I love so many, but my favorite is probably Nikiyas Death variation from La Bayadere!

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

ABT, Paris Opera, Or Boston Ballet

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

Probably Boston Ballet Summer Intensive, or YAGP!

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

Definitely Ever Larson, Maria Khoreva, and Isabella Boylston!

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

Probably to have more confidence in myself and don’t give up. I know that that is really simple but it makes me feel really inspired to work harder!

Q11: Advise you’d give a young version of yourself?

Don’t give up and work hard! It will be worth it one day!

Q12: Best thing about being a ballerina?

Definitely the memories and the work you put in!

Q13: Hardest thing about being a ballerina?

Dealing with all of the doubt and hardships we go through like injuries and negative thoughts.

Q14: It seems like such hard work, did you ever have days growing up where you were like “ugh maybe I’ll just pick an easier career so I can be like a normal teenager”?

Yes, actually but I always think about it and realize how much fun and passion I have for it, and how I have great friends that I spend almost everyday with doing what we love.

Q15: Classical or romantic tutu?

Super hard question! I love both but I would have to go with Romantic.

Q16: Have you ever suffered a serious injury?

No, but last year my knee would always hurt, and I needed to take physical therapy!!

Q17: What do you like to do when you aren’t dancing (your free time)?

I like working on corrections I and hanging out with friends!