DA: When did you first begin to dance?
I started taking ballet lessons at the age of five. I continued my ballet education at the renowned Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet in St. Petersburg, Russia. I graduated in 1993 and was invited to joint world famous Mariinsky (Kirov) Ballet in St. Petersburg where I danced for six seasons. In 1999, I joined Ballet Internationale in Indianapolis, IN.
DA: When did you first begin teach?
After my dance carrier ended in 2003, I began teaching ballet and point classes at Dance Academy.
DA: What styles of dance are you trained in?
I am trained in classical ballet. As a professional dancer, I also learned modern and contemporary styles. I am also a certified Pilates Instructor.
DA: What is your favorite aspect of teaching dance in the classroom?
I like to share with my students what I have learned from the greatest generation of ballet teachers and dancers I had a privilege to work with throughout my career.
DA: What do you hope your students take away from your class?
I hope that my students will learn that determination, passion, and self-discipline will help them achieve their dreams.
