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

Q1: When did you start ballet?

I started ballet when I was 2 years old.

Q2: Where do you currently dance?

I’m in American Repertory Ballet’s Second Company

Q3: How long have you been en pointe for?

I have been on pointe for 12 years.

Q4: What pointe shoes do you currently wear?

I currently wear Grishko pointe shoes

Q5: How did you first get involved in ballet?

My mom thought I would look cute in a leotard and tights, so she put me into ballet.😊

Q6: What is your favourite variation?

My favorite variation is the Giselle Act 1 variation, and La Esmeralda

Q7: What company would you love to work for?

I would love to someday be in American Ballet Theatre’s company!

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

One of my favorite moments was getting the call from our Ballet Master at American Repertory Ballet, Ian Hussey, saying that I was going to be promoted to the second company!

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

My ballet role models are: Ulyana Lopatkina, Irina Dvorovenko, Skylar Brandt, and Catherine Hurlin

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

The best advice I’ve received from a teacher is: Focus on your strengths and the things that make you stand out as a dancer. Highlight those things instead of focusing on what you don’t have

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

Advice I’d give to a younger version of myself: Hard work will always beat talent. Determination and drive are the most important tools you need to make it as a ballerina. Never give up.

Q12: Best thing about being a ballerina?

I think the best thing about being a ballerina is getting to perform for people. It is the best feeling in the world to get to share my emotions through movement with an audience.

Q13: Hardest thing about being a ballerina?

The hardest thing about being a ballerina is that we are constantly striving for perfection. Because of that, it can get discouraging at times. But I think that’s also what makes ballet exciting. If we reached a point where everything was perfect, it would be so boring!

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”?

Ballet is hard work, but I would never give it up. It has taught me so much about discipline, determination, and dedication

Q15: Classical or romantic tutu?

Romantic tutu

Q16: Have you ever suffered a serious injury?

I’m very lucky that I have not suffered from a serious injury

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

I like to bake and crochet in my free time.😊