An Inspired Chat with Caroline Sowers of St. Petersburg, Russia

Caroline Sowers shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Caroline, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I wake up naturally around 7:30, and the first thing I do is drink a glass of water. Then I make breakfast, usually avocado toast with a matcha latte, and go over any new choreography. After that I do my hair and makeup and get ready for the day.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am just starting my first season as a ballet dancer with the Mikhailovsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. I am from America, and have been doing ballet since I was three years old. I came to Russia one year ago to study at the Vaganova Ballet Academy, and after graduation I was invited to join the Mikhailovsky.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My wonderful teachers have been the most influential in shaping the dancer and person I have become. They taught me the value of hard work and pushed me to achieve more than I thought I was capable of achieving.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I have never truly wanted to give up, but at the end of my last year in the US I was at a crossroads: join a smaller company in America, or move across the world to study at Vaganova. Going to Russia was full of unknowns and uncertainty, and it was not a simple decision. However, studying at the prestigious Vaganova Academy and joining a world class company had always been my dream; I couldn’t give up my chance.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
I believe that hard work will pay off eventually, even if not in the way you intended.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing? 
I would regret not giving 100% of myself each time I step onstage.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @caroline.s_ballerina