Born: 1995
Nationality: American
Education: Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School, 2003-13
Previous companies: National Ballet of Canada, Toronto (apprentice), 2013-15, and Boston Ballet, 2015
Career: Joined the Royal Danish Ballet as a member of the corps de ballet in 2016
Highlights from the repertoire with the Royal Danish Ballet: Myrtha in Giselle (Nikolaj Hübbe and Silja Schandorff), solo in Rubiesr – Jewels (George Balanchine), the Pas de Trois and Russian Princess in Swan Lake (Nikolaj Hübbe and Silja Schandorff), Symphony of Psalms (Jiří Kylián) and AfteRite (Wayne McGregor)
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What was the first ballet you saw?
It was The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. I remember seeing the children onstage and wondering how I could get up there with them.
Why did you start dancing?
As a child I was always dancing around the house and performing in my backyard, and was obsessed with my fluffy dress up tutu.
What is your favorite ballet?
Serenade or Giselle.
Why do you think is ballet still relevant today?
The elements of ballet are universal: music, athleticism, aesthetic beauty, emotions, storytelling. There is, and always will be, something in ballet for everyone.
What is so special about the Royal Danish Ballet?
Sharing the stage with such supportive and wonderful colleagues. Also, the history and the magic of Gamle Scene. It is an honor to work here knowing how many legends have danced and choreographed here over so many years.
What is your favorite step from class?
Grand allegro (big jumps).
Who is your roomie at the theatre?
Marina Minoiu.
Is there one thing you can’t live without?
Peanut butter.
Where can we find you on a day off?
In the kitchen, cooking!
Do you have a backstage story that you want to share?
I will always remember the night when, after recovering from my first serious injury, I finally returned to the stage in George Balanchine’s beautiful Diamonds. For everyone else, that show was nothing special, just another night. But the support from my colleagues was incredible. My partner made sure I was ready and went over steps and counts with me right until the moment the curtain went up. And after it was over, a big group of dancers gathered to hug and welcome me back. It was a very emotional night, and I have never felt so much gratitude for my job.
Fun fact:
Despite hearing it more times than I can count every year, the grand pas de deux music from The Nutcracker still gives me chills every time.
Read more about Elenora Morris:
Instagram: @elenoraruth