I recently had the opportunity to ask Tessa Rivadulla some questions about her journey as a ballerina. She is a phenomenal dancer, she graces the stage with immense beauty and elegance. Her passion for ballet is incredible. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet at the age of 8

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I dance at Master Ballet Academy

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been on pointe for 5 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Nickolay Katyas

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I attended Master Ballet Academy’s Summer Intensive and fell in love

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

It’s a tie between Medora Act 3 and Odette

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to work for Stuttgart Ballet

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

My favorite moment in ballet was when I got accepted into Princess Grace Academy year round

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

My role models are Marianela Núñez and Svetlana Zakharova

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

The best advice I’ve received is to never give up on my dreams and to be confident in myself

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

Advice I would give my younger self is don’t worry about the little things

Q12: Best thing about being a ballerina?

The best thing about being a ballerina is seeing all of your hard work pay off

Q13: Hardest thing about being a ballerina?

The hardest thing about being a ballerina is knowing I will never be perfect in my eyes but that drives me to work harder everyday

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”?

Everyone I know who has thought that way have quit, but I have never thought that way because it is my dream

Q15: Classical or romantic tutu?

I prefer classical tutus

Q16: Have you ever suffered a serious injury?

I am fortunate enough to have amazing teachers who help me with my minor injuries and not let them get too serious

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

I love spending time with my family, whether it’s playing “Rock Band”, or sitting out by the fire.