INTERVIEW WITH DEVONIAN DANCER KAYLEIGH ROSS
Tell us how you got into dancing?
I moved to Devon when I was 2 years old, I was too young to go to nursery however my parents wanted me to continue mixing with other children so sent me to Pamela De Waal school of dancing.
How has Devon help shape your career?
There were lots of opportunities as a child, pantomimes, local festivals and summer seasons at Babbacombe Theatre helped develop my love of performing.
What are you looking forward to most about performing at the Princess Theatre?
I’m looking forward to performing in front of my family especially my Nan who hasn’t seen me perform since the last time I danced at the Princess theatre.
Tell us about your role in Dancing Queen…
I’m fortunate enough to be the Dancing Queen in the show.
How do you look after your body?
The show keeps us fit, but its such a high energy show that its important to eat well and because of the amount of travelling we’re doing it’s important to rest when possible.
What advice would you offer to other young dancers?
Work hard, don’t lose sight of your goals, but don’t think it will be an easy career as it takes lots of hard work & dedication.
What would be your dream role?
If I had my pick of any musical I would love to be in Chicago, I enjoy the fluidity of Fosse’s movement & try to relate to his style.
Who inspires you?
The person who has inspired me most in my life is Miss Pamela De Waal who taught me as a child. Her love of dance transcended through her students & you can tell this by the number still performing today. However it was her warmth and encouragement that was truly inspirational and continues to live on through her students.
See Kayleigh Ross in Dancing Queen at the Princes Theatre, Torquay, on July 7. Tickets from £15, here.
