Western Arkansas Ballet

Kelsey Corder Role: Snow Queen

• What made you want to become a dancer?

My mom signed me up for ballet class when I was 4 years old and on the day of my first class, I cried all day because I didn’t want to go. On the ride home, I cried because I couldn’t go back the next day, and I have been in love with dance ever since. • Who/what inspires you most in your dance career?

Watching other dancers inspires me to always work hard and reminds me that there’s always something for me to improve. I’m also inspired by the awestruck little girls who watch rehearsals through the windows and the reactions I receive from the audience.

• What have you learned about yourself or about the craft of ballet in performing with the Western Arkansas Ballet?

Through my years at WAB, I’ve learned that comparing my weaknesses to someone else’s strengths won’t make me any stronger. The only way to improve is to push yourself further than you think you can, no matter how far anyone else goes. • What stereotypes about ballet do you wish you could dispel?

Many people think of ballet as little girls twirling around on stage in pretty pink tutus. People don’t realize the sacrifice, hard work, dedication and strength it takes to be a dancer. Jammie Walker Role: Walker is a visiting dancer from New York’s Jessica Lang Dance, returning to WAB to perform the role of Cavalier • Who/what inspires you most in your dance career?

I am always inspired by the people around me. Watching how they approach a step or a role, or just seeing what their process is. I love learning from others.

• What lessons from your time with Western Arkansas Ballet stand out as having the greatest impact on you?

Definitely just working hard. I am glad that the faculty there pushed me so hard while I was young. It made me better prepared for my future training and eventual career. • What have been your biggest challenges as a dance professional?

Mostly being physically sore almost all of the time. All of the classes, rehearsals and performances really take their toll on certain joints. • What stereotypes about ballet do you wish you could dispel?

I think that the stereotype about dancers not eating is really unfortunate. Dance is aerobic activity, you have to fuel your body. • What do you love most about ballet as an art form?

I love that ballet has the power to inspire people; to make them feel different when they leave the theater than they felt when they came in.

Corder

Walker