Fresh Faces November 2025

As a flurry of Nutcracker-related activity and all the sparkle and wonder of the upcoming holiday season descend upon New York City Ballet, three apprentices have been promoted to the company's corps: Peyton Gin, Vanessa Mlyniec, and Kylie Vernia. We caught up with them between snowy and sweets-filled rehearsals to find out more about their backgrounds, cherished memories, mentors, and more.

PEYTON GIN

What did you do when you first found out you’d be a part of the company?

I got my apprenticeship the day before Thanksgiving last year. I happened to be at a dress rehearsal for The Nutcracker, operating the bed, when they told me they didn’t need me for that anymore—because they wanted me to join the company as an apprentice. My first rehearsal was the following Tuesday, and my first show was the day after that, so everything happened incredibly fast. The first thing I did was call my parents, which was one of the most rewarding moments. In the days leading up to that first rehearsal, I was still in shock—it didn’t fully sink in until I walked into the studio.

I’m really looking forward to revisiting The Nutcracker after a full year of experience with the company. It will be exciting to see how much I’ve grown since last season and to approach my roles with more confidence and maturity. I’m also looking forward to Serenade this winter, which I performed in during the Workshop Performances at SAB. Even if I’m not involved in it this year, I’m excited to see it come together and to experience it from the audience.

What makes NYCB special to you? 

What makes NYCB special to me is its incredible legacy and distinct technique. I grew up admiring the company, so getting to dance on the same stage and perform the same choreography feels like a dream come true. There’s something so powerful about the repertory—the speed, musicality, and freedom of movement—that it challenges you to find your own style while staying true to the music.

Do you have any special memories from SAB or your training in general? 

A particularly memorable experience from my time at SAB was performing in Christopher Wheeldon’s Scènes de Ballet with the company. The role was intricate and challenging, and it taught me about trust, discipline, and performing with confidence under pressure. It also gave me real insight into the artistry and collaboration that goes into working in a professional environment.

VANESSA MLYNIEC

What have been some of your favorite moments as an apprentice with the company? 

I have so many favorite moments from my apprentice year, but one that stands out was being thrown into the corps of Square Dance. When one of the dancers got sick a few hours before the performance, I had only about 30 minutes to run through the ballet onstage before getting ready for the show. I was nervous since it was my first time dancing it and it is a very challenging ballet, but I felt surprisingly calm and excited, knowing that I only had one chance to perform it. The entire cast was so supportive and so many people in the wings were cheering me on, which made the experience incredibly fun. After the performance I felt so accomplished and happy that I had made it through the ballet. I went on to dance the other two ballets that I was originally scheduled for that night: Episodes and Western Symphony. 

Who inspires you most, or is a particularly important model or mentor? 

One of my greatest role models throughout my training, and now my career, has been Suki Schorer. She is close friends with my home studio teacher and former NYCB Soloist Gloria Govrin, who is also an important role model to me.  When I was younger, Suki would visit my studio in the summers to teach classes and I cherished every moment I had to learn from her. When I came to SAB, I was fortunate to have her classes multiple times a week. The way she passes down Balanchine’s technique is incredible, teaching with such kindness, care, and intention in every correction. Working on Serenade with her for Workshop was truly a dream. I remember on the first day, while placing us in our opening spots, she mentioned that my spot had once been hers; I felt so honored to stand where she once stood.

How do you unwind after a tough day of rehearsals or a performance?

After a long day, I always cook myself a good meal and call my mom. Then I take a hot shower to relax my muscles before putting on whatever show or movie I’m watching at the moment. I love to knit, so I usually spend some time working on a new sweater or a pair of leg warmers. I also love to bake, so I like to end the day with a batch of homemade cookies and a cup of peppermint tea before going to sleep as early as I can.

KYLIE VERNIA

What are you most proud of outside of dance?

I take the most pride in the deep connections I have with the people who matter most to me. As I find my footing and establish myself as a professional dancer, juggling the pressure, schedule, expectations, and constant drive to improve, my family and friends have been the anchor that keeps me grounded. They remind me who I am beyond the studio and the stage, help me regain my sense of self when things get overwhelming, and offer unwavering support that means everything to me. Despite the demands of this career, nurturing and cherishing these relationships is a priority in my life, and it’s something I’m truly proud of. 

Do you have any special memories from SAB or your training in general?

SAB was such a significant part of my training and shaped me not only as a dancer but as a person. It taught me discipline, artistry, and grace. One of my most memorable moments was performing Serenade in my final Workshop. I still remember watching NYCB perform it during my first year at the School and feeling completely moved and inspired. The ballet became a symbol of everything I aspired to. Having the opportunity to learn it with the guidance and support of Suki Schorer, and to dance it myself years later, was incredibly meaningful and deeply fulfilling; it’s an experience I’ll never forget.

What do you like about living in NYC?

I really love living in NYC. It’s such a change from growing up in Southern California and it feels exciting. California gives me a sense of warmth and comfort; NYC is a city that feels like a world full of inspiration, momentum, possibilities, and great opportunities. Even though they’re so different, I love that I get to carry a bit of both with me everyday. It really feels like the best of both worlds.