Sarah Gilmour: Australian Semi-Finalist in The Fonteyn 2023:
- What does it mean to you to be selected as one of the semi-finalists for The Fonteyn? How does it feel to be part of this event?
It an incredible honour to be selected as a semi-finalist in this prestigious event. To be able to work alongside and train with like-minded dancers and learn from the incredible faculty will be an experience like no other and I am so grateful for this opportunity.
- Can you tell us about your journey in ballet and what inspired you to pursue dance at such a high level?
I began ballet lessons at the age of three and by the age of 7 I was training in all dance styles. I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in dance and the joy I get from this art form is like no other. Many dancers around the world inspired me to pursue this career but also seeing students from my home town leave and have successful careers has also been a huge inspiration to me. I train at House of Dance and with the Tasmanian Youth Classical Ballet Company, both owned by Michelle Williams. I am primarily taught ballet by Shayne Davies but also Jason and Sasha Gao and many other house of dance teachers have contributed to my dance training in other styles.
- The Fonteyn showcases exceptional talent from around the world. How have you been preparing for this competition, both physically and mentally?
I have been preparing since I found out I had been selected as a semi-finalist, working numerous times a week in the studio of my variation and classical technique. I have also been doing training at home to improve my strength, flexibility and technique for the competition.
- What advice would you give to other aspiring young ballet dancers who aspire to participate in prestigious competitions like The Fonteyn International Ballet Competition?
Keep working hard always, because if you have a goal in dance and you are willing to put in the effort to get there anything is possible..
- Finally, could you please share one interesting and ‘fun fact’ about yourself?
It is believed that I am the first Tasmanian to ever compete in the Margot Fonteyn, and my favourite food is sushi!
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