Student Spotlight: Meet Brooke Noska

eet Brooke Noska, 16, from Medina, Ohio, and training with Houston Ballet Academy.

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

I started dancing when I was 4 years old. I always did ballet, but when I was around 9 years old I realized that I wanted to pursue ballet as a career! I switched from the dance studio I was at to a ballet conservatory and trained there for three years. I focused on improving my technique, and I also competed at YAGP over the years. At the 2019 NYC Finals, I had the honor to compete in the Final Round on Lincoln Center stage! It was the most incredible moment of my life, and something I will remember forever. I ended up tying for 12th place, and this achievement opened up many doors for me. I received various offers to different ballet schools, and I ended up choosing the Houston Ballet Academy! In 2018 I attended their summer intensive, and I absolutely fell in love with Houston Ballet and the Academy. I was already going to attend the summer intensive again in 2019, so it seemed like a perfect fit, and it was a dream come true. Though it was cut short because of the pandemic, I just finished my first year as a Pro 1 in the Houston Ballet Academy! It was the best year of my life, and I can’t wait for many more incredible years to come!

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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?

Regarding my technique, one thing that has always been easy for me has been turns! I love turning and it’s something that has come naturally to me. I also find that performing is another one of my strong suits. I feel at home when I am on stage, so performing is so fun for me!

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

I am not naturally flexible, so working on my lines has always been something I have been conscious of. I have had to focus on working my feet, hyperextension, and turnout.

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

I have had experiences in the past where people have tried to limit me, but I have learned to block it out and push through it! Focusing on my goals and dreams is the motivation to get through a tough situation.

How do you conquer negative talk?

Whether it is negative talk by someone else, or in my own head, it can always be tough to overcome. I always try to focus on the good, because positive can always drown out the negative!

What is your favorite quote?

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil. 4:13 is my favorite Bible verse! :)

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

I am looking forward to training with Houston Ballet again next year!