AN INTERVIEW WITH JESSICA NICHOLSON
Jessica
Q: What was your experience with your professional company Alabama Ballet so far?
A: My first two seasons with Alabama Ballet were very unique due to COVID-19. I was grateful to still be dancing in a company, but it was very hard. Once things started going back to normal though, I was able to see what the company had to offer. I grew to love the Alabama Ballet and the city of Birmingham. I absolutely love the repertoire that we get to do! We’ve done works by George Balanchine, Twyla Tharp, Agnes de Mille, and Garrett Smith, just to name a few. Our new artistic director, Christopher Stuart is an incredible choreographer and leader for the company. I truly believe in his vision for the company’s future.
Q: What do you like best about your job?
A: Performing! It’s such an incredible, euphoric feeling being on stage. It’s where you pour your heart out, and are rewarded for all the hard work you put in.
heart out, and are rewarded for all the hard work you put in
Q: How has Madame Akhmedova and ABA impacted your career and growth as an artist?
A: ABA truly prepared me for my career in just about every way. Madame Akhmedova instilled a discipline and excellent work ethic in me from a young age. The Vaganova method, taught at ABA, is the foundation for all my technique, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. Madame Akhmedova’s love for ballet is contagious!
Q: What were the roles you enjoyed the most so far?
A: The most rewarding role I have ever performed was most definitely the “Sugar Plum Fairy” in George Balanchine’s, “The Nutcracker.” I have also enjoyed performing the duet, “Ring of Fire” in Christopher Stuart’s production of “Under the Lights,” as well as the “Summer Fairy” in Cinderella, and “Gypsy Queen” in Don Quixote.
Q: How did you know you wanted to be a dancer?
A: I feel as though it was never a question in my mind at all…rather, I feel that ballet has always been a part of me ever since I can remember, and I’ve always been passionate about it. I think I’ve always wanted to be a dancer!
Q: What advice would you give to dancers starting on their professional journey?
A: You have to maintain your work ethic, even after you graduate. You have to continue to push yourself daily, as no one else will do it for you. Secondly, don’t talk down on yourself mentally, or compare yourself to others. It will only strip away your love for ballet. Every dancer has a completely different journey in their career, and not a single dancer’s journey is perfect.
