Dance Student Spotlight: Willow Upson

My name is Willow Upson, and I am 9 years old. I live in Toronto and I go to The School of Cadence Ballet.

@willow_ballet_dreamer

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

I took my first ballet class at a local dance studio when I was 3 and a half years old. We got to wear tutus and dance with scarves... I was hooked! By the time I was 6, I was taking many different dance genres. And I had joined my studio's competitive team. Around this time, I auditioned for a spot in the National Ballet Associates Program. The audition itself was meant to be a learning experience, and I never expected to be accepted into the program. When I got the acceptance letter, I was so shocked and happy! I completed one year at NBS and then decided to move all my training to a ballet-focused studio. I was accepted into the Professional Training Program at the School of Cadence Ballet, which is where I still am today. It feels like I've come full circle.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

With all my heart I love ballet, but the business of being a ballerina is not easy work! The art requires discipline and many studio hours. These days it's many zoom hours which has presented a new set of challenges. I'm lucky to have such wonderful teachers who encourage and inspire me to continue every day. In isolation, I've discovered a world of support on Instagram. And I have made some friends all over the globe. At home, I have a family that supports my dreams. These are the things that help me keep going, even during difficult times.

What personal limitations if any did you go through in your young career?

I've never been the most naturally flexible person. I really have to work hard at it every day!

Has anybody ever tried to limit you on what you could do? If so how did you fight it?

I used to swim at a competitive level. Usually, I was the only girl, as well as, the youngest in my classes. This didn't gain me any sympathy from my teacher. In fact, I felt he was quite hard on me at times. I'll never forget the time that he challenged me to a race during one of the classes. It was very close, but in the end, I won. To win was was such a thrill but the best part was the look on his face... I'll never forget that moment.

How do you conquer negative talk?

I really try to make it a habit to focus on what I can do, instead of what I can't. I give the best that I can every day and accept that my best will change from day to day. I try not to compare myself to others. Instead, I try to compete with myself.

What is your favorite quote?

"Don't be afraid to fail. Be afraid not to try." - Michael Jordan

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

I took a year off from competing this season but would love to feel the stage again next year. I'd be thrilled to compete at YAGP and beyond that... A professional career would be a dream come true.