AN INTERVIEW WITH DEANNA PEARSON
Q: What was your experience with your first contract with a professional company?
A: My first contract was with the Staatsballett Berlin in Germany, which I received after auditioning for the company in Berlin during my last year at ABA. I was overjoyed to be starting my professional career in Europe, and to be dancing in Germany just as my teacher had done.
Q: What was your first day like?
A: I don’t really remember my first day, but I certainly remember my first performance of Swan Lake in Berlin. There was a great deal of anticipation and nervousness for sure. The stage in Berlin is quite big and the corps de ballet has a good amount to do in essentially every act of the ballet. I remember waking up the next day and feeling incredibly sore and more tired than I had felt in a while. There was a sense of true accomplishment unlike anything else I had experienced to that point though, and that is what I will remember the most.
Q: What were the roles you enjoyed the most so far?
A: There are so many roles I’ve enjoyed in my career thus far. I really like the big ballets, La Bayadere and Giselle in particular. The music and steps align perfectly and to be out on the stage with your fellow dancers sharing that unique experience is truly humbling. I really enjoy dancing anything by William Forsythe and Balanchine as well, they both celebrate music and dynamics in exhilarating ways.
Q: How has Madame Akhmedova and ABA impacted your career and growth as an artist?
A: Madame Akhmedova has been supportive and championing my career from the very beginning. Given her many years in the business, Madame Akhmedova has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to share. It is wonderful to always be able to come back to ABA, it really feels like a huge part of who I am.
Q: What advice would you give to dancers starting on their professional journey?
A: I would advise dancers embarking on their professional careers to keep their minds open to the challenges that await them. Each person’s path will be their own, though there will always be people around you who you can learn from. Set your own goals and don’t be afraid to be your own advocate.
Q: How did you know you wanted to be a dancer?
A: According to my parents, I was a very hyperactive child. As a way to tire me out and keep me busy, my parents enrolled me in classes at the local dance studio where I grew up. After seeing the Royal Ballet perform in London when I was 10, I knew I wanted to try pursuing dance more seriously. I eventually ended up at the Kirov Academy of Washington, D.C. which is where I first met and took class with Madame Akhmedova. The tradition and rich history of Vaganova and Russian ballet was wonderful and enticing, and I’ve loved it ever since.
