Fiona Lee started dancing at 5 years old at a little ballet studio in rural Montana that used to be an old horse tannery. She joins KCB II.
Q: IS THERE SOMEONE SPECIFIC THAT INSPIRES YOU IN YOUR LIFE AND/OR CAREER?
A: I decided I wanted to be a ballerina at age 10 when KCB Ballet Master Kristi Capps guested at my studio as “Giselle”. I had never talked to a professional ballerina before, and I was immediately enamored with her. She was just as graceful in everyday life as she was onstage! I aspired to be both as glamorous and as generous as her one day. She helped me to realize my goals for dance. I have never looked back.
Q: WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE WOULDN’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I love watercolor painting! It is such a great way for me to decompress while creating something beautiful in the process. My favorite thing to paint are ballerinas because their tulle skirts turn out beautifully using this ethereal medium. I also love to cook. I actually grew up with an industrial-sized wood-fire pizza oven in my kitchen. My dad would use it to make homemade pizzas and bread every week. I developed most of my cooking skills with his guidance. Now I enjoy hosting my own dinner parties and cooking for my friends.
Q: HOW DO YOU STAY FIT AND HEALTHY OUTSIDE OF THE STUDIO?
A: I do yoga twice a week to keep my mind and body balanced. Outside of that, I supplement with Pilates-based strength training and cardio sessions for my stamina. I also make time for hiking, swimming laps, and rock climbing because I love varying my workouts and staying active.
Q: WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT KC?
A: I’m obsessed with the Kansas City art scene. I love going to museums and galleries. The Nelson-Atkins and Kemper Art Museums are some of my favorite places.
Q: WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT THE 2019-20 SEASON?
A: I am super excited for The Nutcracker! Even though I have performed in some version of it nearly every year of my life, there is always a new magic whenever I come back to the ballet.
Top Photograph by Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios.