I had the chance recently to ask Julia Drusch some questions about her journey as a ballerina. Julia is a phenomenal dancer, she graces the stage with incredible poise and beauty. Her passion for ballet is amazing. Below are her responses.

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started dancing when I was three years old

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I am currently dancing at Art Ballet Academy in Arlington TX

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been on point for about 7 years

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

Right now, I am in the Nikolay Nova pointe shoe

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My older sister danced when she was younger, so my mom thought it would be a good idea for me to try it as well

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favorite variation is either Satanella or Black Swan

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to work for any company that wants to work with me, but ABT and SFB have always been some of my dream companies

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

My favorite moments in ballet are being backstage and getting into that mindset of performing. Even though there are lots of butterflies and nerves, it always feels surreal to be standing in the wings about to step out on the stage and give it your all.

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

There are so many amazing and inspiring people in ballet, but I especially love following Tanya Trombly, Marienela Nunez, all of the dancers from ABT, and so many more!

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

The best advice I’ve received from my teachers is to push yourself harder than what you think you can do, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you put aside those mental blocks.

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

If I were to give my younger self advice it would be to soak up every correction that the teacher gives, even if it is not meant for you. There is always something to improve on and taking others corrections and applying them to yourself has really been a great tool.

Q12: Best thing about being a ballerina?

The best thing about being a dancer is the ability to do what I love, and share my passion and drive with others

Q13: Hardest thing about being a ballerina?

The hardest thing about being a dancer is the sheer competition within the dance community because there are so many amazing dancers out there

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”?

There have been times where things seem to get too hard or unattainable, and sometimes being a “normal” teenager seems so nice, but when I give myself time to think I always remember that ballet is my passion, and always will be.

Q15: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical tutu for sure!

Q16: Have you ever suffered a serious injury?

About two years ago, I had a stress fracture in my left foot that had me out for about 7 weeks, and that was a very hard time for me. Luckily with the encouragement of my family and coaches, I was able to get back on my feet to perform our Nutcracker.

Q17: 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 since I usually don’t get to spend a lot of time with them. I also love watching movies and playing board games!