New York City Ballet

Ana Sophia Scheller

Born Buenos Aires, Argentina
Joined NYCB 2004 Principal 2012

How and when did you begin dancing?
I was six and living in Buenos Aires, Argentina when my brother enrolled in an after-school soccer program. I was bored at home so my mom enrolled me in the ballet program. At the end of every year Nancy Bocca [mother of Julio Bocco, celebrated Argentinean dancer and former member of American Ballet Theatre] would grade us, and I always got a perfect score. When I was nine, she told my mom that I had very good qualities to become a ballet dancer, and that I should think about attending a serious school. That is when I started training to audition for the Instituto de Arte del Teatro Colon in Buenos Aires, the main ballet school in Argentina. I got in and studied there for three years.

What do you enjoy most about ballet and performing?
I love the hard work and rehearsals. Even if I have already performed a ballet a million times there is always something new that I can learn. When I perform, I step into a world that is only me, the dance, and the music. It’s a timeless moment.

Do you have a favorite role?
So far I have really enjoyed dancing Cortege Hongrois. I love the classicism and grandness of the choreography. It's a true challenge.

Do you have a pre-performance routine?
I start getting ready two to three hours before each show, depending on what I’m dancing. It helps me get focused before the performance. I start with my make-up first and then my hair. I go to the studio in the theater and choose the pairs of shoes that feel and look the best on my feet. I always make sure that I have sewn at least 3 pairs or more. I stretch and warm up at the barre. Finally, 15 minutes before curtain, I put on my costume and pointe shoes. Once I tie my ribbons, I sew them in place. I do a few pirouettes on stage and then I’m ready to go!

What do you like to do outside the ballet studio?
I love going to the Russian Bathhouses and watching Spanish soap operas.

What would you like to do when you stop dancing professionally?
I would love to work for a ballet company coaching dancers in main roles.

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