‘I aim to learn and grow from all the opportunities and experiences put in front of me in order to achieve my best’
-Belle Urwin
Name?
Belle Urwin
Age?
19 years old
Where did you grow up?
Sydney, NSW
What age did you start dancing?
I started dancing at 4 years old at Robyn Kirkland School of Ballet.
What’s your first memory of dance?
My first memory of dance would be with my siblings in our living room dancing to Grease.
Favourite ballet/contemporary work?
I was lucky enough to be selected as a child extra in TAB’s 2012 production of La Bayadere and I instantly fell in love with the music and style, therefore this has to be one of my favourite ballets.
I also love Balanchine’s Serenade and Who Cares especially as I was able to perform both of these pieces whilst in the school.
Belle Urwin, courtesy of The Australian Ballet
Favourite dance film/book/podcast?
I love watching documentaries on dancers from all over the world. Hearing their stories and journeys to the top is always so captivating. Some of these include, Yuli (Carlos Acosta), Mao’s Last Dancer (Li Cunxin), A Ballerinas Tale (Misty Copeland) and Dancer (Sergei Polunin).
Favourite moment on stage?
My graduation performance of Sleeping Beauty was one of my most proud and fulfilling memories. It was my first Principal role and my grandparents flew over from NZ to watch me dance for the first time.
What repertoire/role do you aspire to perform?
I would love to perform Kitri from Don Quixote as her character is so vivacious and flirtatious which would be a lot of fun.
Who is your dance idol or mentor?
Natasha Kusen (former soloist with TAB) was allocated to be my mentor whilst in my final year at the school. She really helped prepare me for company life which made the transition from school to company much smoother. Although she no longer dancers with TAB she continues to support and offer me guidance which I am very grateful for.
Do you prefer the classical or contemporary repertoire?
I have no preference when it comes to watching classical or contemporary, but in regards to performing I would say classical as it comes more natural to me.
How have you been keeping busy during lockdown?
I spent majority of the lockdown period in Sydney with my parents and 3 siblings. I grew up playing a lot of cards so there were many Euchre and 500 tournaments that kept me busy. In addition to this I kept busy in the kitchen cooking as well attempt to learn the piano (didn’t go so well).
What are you most looking forward to about being back in the studio?
I miss the atmosphere of being in the studios with my friends and colleagues. I also miss the beautiful space and tarkett floors.
What do you think makes TAB such an incredible company to be a part of?
The Australian Ballet is such a well organised, well established company that perform all over the world. They look after their dancers and I feel like we all belong to one big family.
What is your biggest aspiration for your career?
I hope to one day perform some of my dream roles on stages all across the world. I aim to learn and grow from all the opportunities and experiences put in front of me in order to achieve my best. I look forward to what the future brings!