AS IS | Alexandra Farber

Ballet dancer, visual artist

So thrilled to interview one of a kind, Alexandra Farber, we talked about ballet the best angle to look at it and ways to find inspiration in dance, and many more.

Photo credit: Shelbie Monkres

AR: Please, tell us a bit more about yourself. What brought you to ballet?

A: I’ve been a ballet dancer for almost my entire life; my mother put me in classes when I was three and I have never stopped since! Now in my tenth season with Texas Ballet Theater as a principal dancer, it feels very surreal. I have used this lifelong experience in my other avenues like choreography and visual art.

AR: Where do you find the inspiration?

A: I find so much of my inspiration from my own experiences as well as the work of other artists, such as Ray Johnson, Dana Newman, and George Herms.

AR: What would you recommend to someone who's new to the ballet and art of dance, what to begin with?

A: That dance is really for everyone and that art is approachable; many people are afraid to explore some of these art forms because of the elitist facade or the negative qualities of it (which there definitely can be) but find the good ones to participate and learn from; we’re out there! I am always open to communication and collaboration.

AR: Your top 3 favorite adjectives related to dance/ballet?

A: Unique, persistent, and patient.

AR: The best angle to look at ballet is from...?

A: Your own unique point of view.

Photo credit: Shelbie Monkres

AR: Must-read books/spectacles to watch in order to talk about the art of dance (do we even need them)?

A: I think there are lots of different entry points to the world of dance, and I think however you find it is the right way to learn and talk about it; I think The Red Shoes is a cinematic masterpiece, and recommend it highly as it was recommended to me!

AR: If you could change one thing in the world of ballet - what would it be?

A: More representation of unique people; particularly in the ballet, white men are the people in charge. Adding more people of color and women would open up the ballet world to new and more progressive outlooks and creations. I strive for this as a female choreographer in what I bring to the table.

AR: Please, share your favorite quote (not necessarily related to dance)

A: “I've always had access to other worlds. We all do because we dream”. Leonora Carrington

Thank you!

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