BalletMet’s professional company recently welcomed four new dancers from around the world to its 16/17 ranks. Among them, Rachael Jones, originally from Snellville, Ga.
Ms. Jones has studied at the Lilburn School of Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, The Rock School for Dance Education and Shanghai Ballet. She’s danced with The American Repertory Ballet, Nashville Ballet and, most recently, Washington Ballet and has enjoyed performing works by choreographers Graham Lustig, Septime Webre, Edwaard Liang, William Forsythe and more.
Ms. Jones was also a National Merit Scholar and holds a bachelor’s degree in international affairs, with a minor in political science and Italian.
Meet her below.
Most memorable moments in your career:
Being cast in William Forsythe’s In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated after having previously just understudied the ballet and being cast last minute as Princess Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty and receiving my very first standing ovation.
If you weren’t a dancer, what would you be doing?
I would be a federal agent… or a chef.
Favorite movie, book and song?
Movie: “Pan’s Labyrinth”
Book: Stephen King’s The Stand
Song: Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing”
Favorite meal?
Grilled bourbon salmon, jasmine rice and steamed snap peas
Favorite quote?
“…Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” –Muhammad Ali
Photo courtesy XMBphotography