Q&A With Evie Ferris

In 3 words what does dance mean to you?

Discovery, connection, expression.

 Favourite ballet to dance?

Tough to pick just one! Different ballets inspire different things within me and there are so many beautiful productions I am yet to experience.

Swan Lake is one of the first ballet’s I performed with The Australian Ballet so it holds a special place in my heart. It is a challenging but incredibly rewarding ballet and there is nothing like dancing on stage alongside friends and colleagues, completely immersed in such a timeless piece. 

Do you believe that ballet is a readily accessible art-form?


Ballet is not a readily accessible art form, though it is becoming more so through projects dedicated to reaching broader audiences and organisations like Ballet Without Borders. I recognise my privilege and the opportunities that got me to where I am today and never take them for granted. I think it’s important that people use their opportunities to help others and I hope that I can advocate and pave the way in making ballet more accessible to children in all walks of life. 

What is a typical misconception about ballet that you would like to set straight?  

 The idea that ballet dancers have to be a certain height and/or weight. I think this is slowly improving but it’s so important for the health and well-being of emerging dancers to know that our strengths are in our uniqueness and individuality.  

What are you reading right now?

“Raising Girls Who Like Themselves” – Kasey Edwards & Dr Christopher Scanlon

1 thing that most people don't know about you?

I’m currently studying a Bachelor of Food and Nutrition. Sometimes it’s hard to fit this in to my schedule but it’s very rewarding and I’m getting a lot out of it. 

Ballet without Borders aims to allow children from disadvantaged backgrounds to experience ballet- if you had ultimate power for a day what would you do to make this happen?  

I’d organise free masterclasses right around the world that all children, from all backgrounds, can participate in. Followed by free performances and Q&A’s with professional ballet dancers. Ensuring that remote localities are reached.

Favourite ballet to watch?

Couldn’t pick just one! Giselle, In the Upper Room, Alice In Wonderland. They are all so different and versatile which is something I love about this art form. 


If you could go back to a point in time in your life, what advice would you give yourself?

Don’t let the belief of others or your own self-doubt hold you back. Mistakes are a vital part of growth. You are worthy and your story is important.  

You have been given an elephant! You cannot sell it or give it away, what do you do?

I would create a talk show where the elephant has a comfortable space to live in and invite people to talk about the elephant in the room - uncomfortable topics like racism and class bullying to bring awareness to important social topics.


Picture by Kate Longely

Picture by Kate Longely