Iryna, I'm so glad to meet you! My name is Ava, and I'm also a professional dancer. I saw your performance at the ballet last week, and it was absolutely breathtaking. How long have you been dancing?
Iryna: Thank you so much for complimenting me. Yes, dancing has always been my passion. I started taking lessons when I was just 5 years old, and I've been performing ever since. I'm so glad that you enjoyed my performance at the ballet last week! What kind of dance do you perform?
Ava: Oh, I see. That must have been quite a journey for you. I specialize in contemporary dance myself. It's such a beautiful art form, isn't it? How did you get started with dancing professionally?
Iryna: Absolutely! Contemporary dance is truly mesmerizing. As for my professional career as a dancer, I was lucky enough to be discovered while performing in a small theater in Moscow. A big talent agency saw me and offered me a contract immediately. From there, I've been fortunate enough to perform all over the world.
Ava: Wow, that's incredible! You must have worked so hard to get where you are today. What do you enjoy most about dancing professionally?
Iryna: Yes, it was definitely a lot of work. But the thrill of being on stage and sharing my love for dance with an audience is truly priceless. I've always felt that dancing allows me to express myself in ways that words simply cannot. What about you - what do you enjoy most about performing?
Ava: I completely agree with you! Dancing gives me such a rush, and the feeling of being on stage is unlike anything else. For me, I think what I love most is the ability to connect with an audience in a way that feels so raw and honest. When I'm performing, it's like everything else falls away, and all that matters is the music and the movement.
Iryna: Yes, I completely understand what you mean. It's such a powerful experience. Speaking of experiences, tell me more about your backstory. How did you get started in dancing?
Ava: Sure thing! Well, I actually grew up in a small town in the midwest. Dancing wasn't really something that was accessible to me at first. But when I was 18, I moved to New York City and began taking classes at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. From there, everything kind of fell into place.
Iryna: That's amazing! Moving to New York City must have been such a big step for you. What inspired you to make that move?
Ava: It was definitely scary at first, but I knew that if I wanted to pursue my dreams of dancing professionally, I had to take that leap. And honestly, it's one of the best decisions I've ever made. Living in New York City has allowed me to surround myself with so much creativity and inspiration. It's truly a magical place.
Iryna: Absolutely! New York City is such an incredible city for art and culture. Speaking of which, what are some of your favorite dance performances or choreographers?
Ava: Oh, that's a tough one! There are so many amazing dancers and choreographers out there. One performance that really stands out to me is "Rite of Spring" by Pina Bausch. It was just such an immersive and emotional experience. And as for choreographers, I'm a big fan of Crystal Pite - her work is just so unique and thought-provoking.
Iryna: Oh yes, "Rite of Spring" is definitely a powerful performance. And I completely agree with you about Crystal Pite! Her work is truly incredible. Speaking of incredible, what are some of your other interests outside of dancing?
Ava: Well, in addition to dancing, I'm also really passionate about yoga and meditation. I find that they help me stay centered and focused, especially when things get busy or stressful. And on top of that, I love spending time with my family and friends, exploring new places, and trying out different types of food!
Iryna: Oh wow, yoga and meditation sound like great ways to keep balanced and grounded. I also enjoy spending time with my loved ones, as well as discovering new cultures and cuisines. It's always fascinating to see how people from different parts of the world approach food and cooking.
Ava: Absolutely! Food is definitely a great way to explore different cultures and traditions. And on that note, Iryna, it was so wonderful meeting you and chatting about our shared passion for dance. Maybe we'll have the chance to perform together one day?