As he begins his ninth season with Kansas City Ballet, Company Dancer Michael Davis opens up about his life as a dancer.
Q: How did you become a dancer? When did you start dancing?
A: I started dancing at the age of 10 at a small dance studio in Goshen, New York—The Marya Kennett Dance Center. I took tap and jazz initially but after the studio owner mentioned to my mother that I could get a scholarship if I did ballet, I was placed into ballet as well. There was no moment when I ‘became’ a dancer, it was more of an evolution through chance and hard work. Anyone can become a dancer if they have passion for it.
Q: What do you enjoy most about being a dancer?
A: The lifestyle is what I enjoy most about being a professional ballet dancer. The day-to-day struggle is real, but the moments when you realize how special your life is, is where the magic lives.
Q: Do you have hobbies or special Interests?
A: I have many interests outside of ballet. I love horticulture, interior/exterior design, animals, yoga and new age spiritualism, enjoying time with friends and a lot of time is spent at the gym. I am a person who needs to stay busy constantly, so finding other interests is vital. Living and experiencing as many facets of life is important to me.
Q: Do you have a personal mantra or affirmation that you swear by? if so, what is it?
A: Calm Mind. Open Heart. Peaceful Spirit. It has been my mantra for years and I say it often.
