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After three years performing as a First Artist at the Scottish Ballet, we’re thrilled to have Australian dancer Mia Thompson joining the Company. Here is a little insight from Mia on what inspires her, what she’s most looking forward to in 2019, and her thoughts on transitioning from ballet to contemporary.
Q. How old were you when you started dancing and what first sparked your interest in dance?
I was four years old when I first started dancing. I have six sisters who all danced with me at one point. Growing up, I would always watch my older sisters dance and I wanted to do the same.
Photo by Alex Fine
Q. What attracted you to Sydney Dance Company? Did you move to Australia for the position? If so, how have you found the transition?
I’ve always been a huge fan of Sydney Dance Company from a young age. The Company’s incredibly unique and pure talent has always drawn my attention. I intended on auditioning for Sydney Dance Company back in 2015/16 but always wanted to travel and work for a European company. I was offered a contract with the Scottish Ballet and have spent the last three years performing with them.
I have now moved back home to Australia for my contract with Sydney Dance Company and am loving it so far! The transition from ballet to contemporary will take a bit of getting used to, but I look forward to the challenge and freedom that lies ahead.
Q. What have been the highlights of your dance career so far?
Highlights of my career so far include, performing the role of the Gypsie in Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Le Baiser de la Fée at the Royal Opera House London, performing as Sugar Plum in Peter Darrel’s The Nutcracker, performing in Crystal Pite’s Emergence at Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London, and my promotion to First Artist with Scottish Ballet.
Photo by Alex Fine
Q. Top 3 on your music playlist at the moment
Chet Faker
The xx
Mumford and Sons
Q. What are you most looking forward to at Sydney Dance Company in 2019?
At the moment, I am most looking forward to performing my first season with Sydney Dance Company. It’s been an overwhelming couple of months and I’m just so happy to be back home with a company I admire.
Q. What advice would you give your younger self?
One day you will be at the place you always wanted to be…. ‘don’t give up’.
See Mia Thompson perform in Sydney Dance Company’s 50th Anniversary triple bill, Bonachela / Nankivell / Lane in Sydney March 26 – April 13.