Klara is a current student at Northern Ballet School (NBS), which is based at our ICTheatre Manchester campus. Here, she shares insights about her journey so far and her passion for professional dance.
“Hello, I’m Klara, and I’m currently studying professional dance at Northern Ballet School in Manchester. My dance journey began in Denmark at the Royal Danish Ballet School when I was just 11 years old. Growing up, I performed in productions like Billy Elliot, which sparked my early fascination with musical theatre and jazz dancing. After completing my A levels in Sweden, I decided to pursue further education in dance, leading me to study at Laine Theatre Arts for a year before moving to Northern Ballet School.
Discovering a Passion for Dance
Choosing Northern Ballet School has truly felt like finding a new home for my passion. The environment here has been incredibly supportive and nurturing, allowing me to explore various dance styles and push my boundaries as a performer.
One of the defining moments in my dance journey was discovering jazz dance. Unlike ballet, jazz dance gave me a sense of freedom in movement and allowed my personality to shine through different musical styles. It was this versatility and expressive potential that made me realise I wanted to pursue dance professionally.
Dance, particularly jazz, fascinates me because it’s both highly technical and deeply artistic. Mastering the technical aspects gives me a sense of achievement, while the artistic side allows me to interpret movements in my own unique way. It’s a blend of discipline and creativity that keeps me constantly inspired and motivated.
Embracing the Challenges and Triumphs
When I dance, especially on stage, it’s an indescribable feeling. The rush of adrenaline, the endorphins—it’s a high that I can’t get from anything else. It’s during these moments that I feel most alive and connected to my artistry.
Of course, pursuing dance professionally comes with its challenges. The long hours of practice can be physically and mentally exhausting. There are times when motivation dips, but I’ve learned to push through these periods, knowing that they are temporary and part of the journey towards growth and improvement.
Currently, I’m preparing for our summer show, which will also serve as our graduation showcase. Following this, I have an exciting opportunity lined up as a professional dancer in Cyprus for the next eight months. It’s a thrilling prospect, and I hope to continue building my career in dance beyond that.
Life in Manchester: A Cultural and Artistic Hub
Moving from Sweden to Manchester wasn’t without its adjustments. Cultural differences sometimes made it challenging to feel fully integrated, but the warm welcome from fellow students and the vibrant atmosphere of Manchester made it easier. The city itself is incredibly artistic and inclusive, with numerous opportunities to explore different forms of art, music, and dance.
At Northern Ballet School, the campus provides excellent facilities, including spacious studios and an in-house theatre where we often rehearse and perform. Being able to dance in such a supportive environment with state-of-the-art facilities has been invaluable to my growth as a dancer.
Manchester, as a city, has been a perfect fit for me. It’s lively and culturally rich, with plenty of artistic events and venues to explore. From independent shops to iconic theatres like the Palace Theatre and the Manchester Opera House, there’s always something exciting happening.
Advice for Aspiring Dancers
To any young person considering studying dance, I would say go for it wholeheartedly. If you have a passion for dance, pursue it with determination because it’s a journey unlike any other. Dance has brought me immense joy and fulfilment, and I believe that if you love dancing, it’s worth dedicating yourself to it completely. There’s nothing quite like following your passion and seeing where it takes you.”
As Klara looks ahead to her upcoming performances and future opportunities in Cyprus, her dedication and love for dance continue to fuel her remarkable journey at university.
