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

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started seriously when I was 11

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I dance at the Rock School For Dance Education

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I started pointe at 11

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I wear Grishkos!

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

I used to only do other styles but I saw videos of ballerinas on YouTube and that inspired me to do ballet

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favorite variation is Raymonda

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to work for any company as long as I am enjoying myself and doing what I love which is ballet!

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

One of my favorite memories in ballet was being able to go to Paris to participate in the YAGP Paris classes. It was an amazing experience to take class at the Paris Opera and to explore Paris as well

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

I have so many ballet role models but some of my favorites are Svetlana Zakharova and Sarah Lamb

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

I would say the best advice I’ve ever received from a teacher is not to give up.

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

If I were to give advice to my younger self I would say to not compare yourself to others as much. Each person has there own path they are going on

Q12: Best thing about being a ballerina?

The best thing about being a ballerina is performing. I love expressing my emotions through dancing and performing

Q13: Hardest thing about being a ballerina?

The hardest thing about ballet I think is staying determined even when it gets tough.

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”?

I’ve never really wanted to stop Ballet. But I have had days that are super hard to get through, but at the end of the day I am happy because I am very lucky to be doing what I love.

Q15: Classical or romantic tutu?

Classical tutu!

Q16: Have you ever suffered a serious injury?

Luckily I have never suffered from a serious injury

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

When I am not dancing I love doing yoga, reading, baking, and spending time with friends.