Who is Irina Kolesnikova?
Dancer, mother, wife, emotional, satisfied, focused.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
When I was a child, I wanted to be an ice skater, then a gymnast, then a doctor… but now I’m a dancer and I know it was the right decision. I wouldn’t change anything… and now I never look backwards.
Who inspires you and why?
My school, the Vaganova Choreographic Institute has always been my career inspiration… over 250 years of tradition became part of my physical and emotional makeup.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d like to be the catalyst to end poverty in some way.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
At the moment, the Gold Coast as I have just spent 10 days there. Dancers rarely get to truly relax and walk on the beach. Swimming in the ocean almost made me forget ballet… but not quite!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
St Petersburg is such an architectural gem – so I take overseas friends on a cruise on the Moika Canal from where you can see so many of our fabulous buildings – palaces, churches, bridges and monuments…
What are you currently reading?
Anna Karenina.
What are you currently listening to?
Anything and everything except hard rock!
Happiness is?
My daughter, Swan Lake and dancing.
What does the future hold for you?
To keep dancing, then teach and coach.
Irina is currently appearing in the St Petersburg Ballet Theatre’s production of Swan Lake – presented at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from 21 June – 1 July 2018. For more information, visit: www.st-petersburg-ballet.com for details.
Image: Irina Kolesnikova – courtesy of St Petersburg Ballet Theatre