Vanessa Schroeder began dancing at Coronado Community Center at age three and joined San Diego Ballet School when she was ten years old under the direction of Robin Sherertz-Morgan. She has trained in multiple technical methods including Balanchine, Vaganova, and French technique. Since joining SDBS, Vanessa has also trained in the styles of jazz, contemporary, modern, and tap. She has attended and been awarded scholarships to numerous summer ballet programs throughout the country. At thirteen years old, she was asked to assist in Intro and Pre Ballet Classes where she found her love for teaching. During her time at San Diego Ballet School, Vanessa has had the honor of performing both soloist and lead roles in the school’s productions of Paquita and Swan Lake. Vanessa has danced in San Diego Ballet Productions of Debussy Dances, The Nutcracker, Giselle, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Jungle Book, Viva Vivaldi, Eight to The Barre and The Sleeping Beauty.
- What ignited your passion for dance?
I wouldn’t say there was just one thing in particular that ignited my passion for dance. My mom decorated my nursery to be ballet themed, so I guess in a way it was all meant to be. Ballet came very naturally to me when I was young and eventually I kept asking to be challenged in my training more and more. I was put into classes with people much older than me, who motivated me and helped me to see ballet as a career I could pursue.
- What inspired you to pursue a professional career in dance?
I’ve wanted to be a ballerina for as long as I can remember, but it was when I was 16 that I realized it was something I needed as well. During my junior year of high school, I was asked to join SDB on their Nutcracker tour which meant I’d be missing school for a few weeks. When I eventually had to return back to regular schooling, I quickly discovered that I’d much rather be in the studio dancing alongside professionals than in a classroom!
- What is your favorite thing about being a dancer?
My favorite thing about being a dancer is the routine. As professional ballet dancers, every morning we start with the basics we learned as children (plies, tendus, etc.). It isn’t until afterwards, when we go into rehearsals or a performance, that we get to spin, jump around, and become a character for a few minutes. It’s a very refreshing and humbling experience for me.
- What is your biggest dream for your dance career?
The biggest dream I have for my dance career is to share my experiences and advice with younger dancers, whether that be as a teacher or peer. I still haven’t completely decided where I’d like to end up though. If I could do it all, I would!
- When you’re not pirouetting and perfecting your pliés, what brings you joy?
Some people may consider it strange or unhealthy but everything I know revolves around dance. Ballet is not only my career, but it’s the friends and family I grew up with and learned from. It’s my second family and second home that bring me joy.
- What is the most transformative experience you’ve had as a dancer?
The most transformative experience I’ve had as a dancer was being able to assist with Intro and Pre Ballet classes at SDBS. By helping the younger students with learning steps and correcting technique, I was able to understand and see ballet working through the body in a whole new way. I could see which muscles were meant to be used for certain steps, where each muscle and bone were meant to be placed and the shape they were meant to create. I learned that technique wasn’t just about pointing your feet and straightening your knees, but that it revolves around the feeling, shapes, and fluidity you can create with your body.
- What is your favorite ballet?
My favorite classical ballet is Don Quixote. I love the music, Spanish inspired steps, and use of props. It seems like it’d be super fun to perform! However, my favorite overall has got to be Mambomania. During SDB’s Summer Intensive a few years ago, I had the honor of learning and performing a solo from the piece, and have been addicted with both the music and choreography ever since.
- What is your favorite role you have performed at San Diego Ballet and what is a role you would like to perform in the future?
My favorite role I have performed at San Diego Ballet was the Red section of Opus…Swing during last season’s Eight to The Barre. It was definitely a challenge performing difficult choreography alongside professionals when I was a student, but I fell in love with the choreography and its relationship to the music, and enjoyed every second of performing it! I’d love to perform any Spanish or Latin inspired role in the future.
- What is your favorite local spot in San Diego?
My favorite local spot in San Diego is Coronado. It’s where I grew up, made my first friends, and often like to visit. I especially enjoy the cafes, little shops, and the beach there.