Q. What made you want to become a ballet dancer?
A. The beauty and discipline of the art form, and the feeling when dancing to music compares to nothing else.
Q. What is your favorite repertory ballet to perform and why?
A. I love performing anything I’m currently working on!
Q. Tell us what brings you joy in your day at NYCB
A. The dressing room/backstage moments leading up to a performance and the post-show happy adrenaline. The giggles, makeup prep, and things that the audience would never see.
Q. Who inspires you on or off the stage?
A. My mother. The epitome of grace and beauty. She taught me how to carry myself on and offstage and has been a constant support throughout my career.
Q. If you could dance any role—what would it be and why?
A. Aurora in NYCB’s production. Ever since I was little she was always my favorite princess. I feel my best in a tutu, and love that you are challenged to showcase three different phases of life.
Rapid Fire: Either/Or With Olivia
Morning Bird or night owl?
I’m right in between. A little of both!
Romantic tutu or classic?
Classic :)
Coffee or tea?
Coffee for me, please!
Underdressed or overdressed?
Dress to impress, always.
Books or movies?
Happy medium of both.
Center work or Barre?
Center! That’s when you really dance! Over the years I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty, and calm of barre more and more though. It sets you up for your day.
Waffles or Pancakes?
Waffles! I like the crunch
Heels or flats?
I like to think of myself as a heel girl, but pointe shoes and heels don’t get along. Flats for me!
Thanks to generous patrons like you, dancers like Olivia can bring the joy of dance to countless audiences for generations to come. Contact Rachel Gelis at 212-870-5686 or rgelis@nycballet.com to find out how you can make a lasting impact by including NYCB in your will.