Life as a Professional Ballerina | Strictly Ballet

Q & A

What is the significance of joining Sav in the transcript?

Joining Sav is a pivotal moment for many young dancers, as it marks the beginning of their journey to becoming professional ballerinas. Dancers leave home at a very young age, usually around 14 or 15, to live in dorms and fully commit to their training.

What was the dancer's main concern during their final years at the school?

The dancer was nervous about their future during the final years at the school. It was a crucial time, as it was a stepping stone towards potentially becoming a part of a professional company, particularly their dream company, New York City Ballet.

How did the dancer feel about achieving their dream of joining New York City Ballet?

The dancer expressed immense honor and excitement after receiving a core contract from New York City Ballet, officially becoming part of the company. This was a significant achievement, as it had been a long-time dream.

What is the daily routine like for a dancer in the company?

A dancer in the company typically wakes up, makes breakfast, and either watches TV or does schoolwork. They take a class at 10:30 AM and have rehearsals until 7:00 PM. If there is a performance, they will also have a show at 7:30 PM, usually finishing at around 10:00 or 11:00 PM.

What is the difference between being an apprentice and having a core contract in the New York City Ballet?

An apprentice is an early stage in a dancer's professional career, where they are still learning and gaining experience. A core contract, on the other hand, means the dancer is officially part of the company, having proven their skill and commitment to the craft.

How does the dancer view the process of developing as an artist?

The dancer believes that the process of developing as an artist involves working on both technical skills and artistic expression. They focus on defining who they want to be on stage and what they want to portray to the audience.

What is emphasized as essential for standing out as a dancer in the company?

While technique is important, the dancer emphasizes that standing out comes from being unique and authentic. Every dancer in the company has perfect technique, but it is the personal artistry and individual expression that makes each dancer distinct.

Who does the dancer look up to in the company?

The dancer looks up to many people in the company, regardless of age or experience. They admire dancers who are slightly older or who have been inspirations since their younger years, reflecting on the importance of mentorship and learning from others.

What is the dancer’s long-term goal in their career?

The dancer's long-term goal is to continuously improve as both a dancer and an artist. While they are unsure of their exact destination, they strive to become an artist they can be proud of and to develop into a performer with a unique voice on stage.

How does the variety of dancers in the company contribute to the dancer's growth?

The diversity of dancers in the company is seen as a major source of inspiration and learning. By observing the different ways people dance and express themselves, the dancer gains insights into how they want to evolve artistically and develop their personal style.