A native of San Jose, Calif., Nicole Townsend joined Kansas City Ballet’s Second Company as a member of KCB II last fall of 2021. Learn more about Nicole!
Q: TELL US WHY YOU BECAME A DANCER?
A: I have always been passionate about ballet ever since I saw The Nutcracker. I hoped one day that would be me dancing the Sugar Plum Fairy with my Cavalier! I began taking lessons when I was just 2 years old. My mom knew I was going to be a dancer because I could not stop dancing around the house!
Q: WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT DANCING?
A: In my off hours I really just try to take care of my body and take advantage of the down time. I also do cross training like Pilates and yoga to strengthen my muscles and find my center. I also enjoy sketching and painting in my off time when my schedule permits!
Q: WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE AS A DANCER?
A: The biggest challenge I can think of has been fighting the “image” that others have of what a ballerina should look like. My way of coping is to simply strive to be the very best dancer I can be. Understanding that in a visual art form there will always be a component of a “look.” But if you perform at a high level and are able to give a compelling performance, the “image” becomes secondary and the art becomes the first!
Q: WHO INSPIRES YOU?
A: I have long been inspired by Misty Copeland. Her battle to rise to the top of the ballet world in the face of both overt and underlying racism has helped to fuel me to never give up on my dreams no matter the obstacles I face.
Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER ASPIRING DANCERS?
A: My advice to other aspiring dancers is to not allow others to place limitations on what you are able to achieve. We were all that little girl in awe of the older dancers and the professionals at one time and at no time did we imagine ourselves not being great dancers!
Top Photograph by Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios.
Nicole, a rising star the one to watch. Great inspiration for all, courage and perseverance!!
Inspirational profile to be shared with my 7 year old great granddaughter. Great future ahead for her hopefully. My goal is to keep her encouraged.