Alessandra James
Alessandra trained with Gwinnett Ballet Theatre under the direction of Lisa Sheppard. She also trained with Stanislav Issaev and went on to compete in the Premio Roma International Ballet Competition where she received third prize and the Grishko Prize for Charm and Elegance. Alessandra danced with Colorado Ballet for one season before joining Charlotte Ballet II and later, the main company. In 2008, after six years with Charlotte Ballet, Alessandra moved to Madrid, Spain, where she danced with the Victor Ullate Ballet. Alessandra has performed in George Balanchine’s Agon, Apollo, Midsummer Night’s Dream and Who Cares?; Jerome Robbin’s Fancy Free; Twyla Tharp’s Nine Sinatra Songs and The Golden Section; and as Mina in Mark Godden’s Dracula. She received a Princess Grace Award in 2005.
- Hometown: Atlanta, GA
- Dancing Since: Age 3
- Seasons with Charlotte Ballet: 14
- What does “Pretty Powerful” mean to you? This campaign perfectly sums up our company and the direction Hope is taking us in! The season is set up to show us off as beautiful artists and also highlights our strength and versatility, not only on stage but as a part of the Charlotte community as well.
- What do you think audiences will be excited for this upcoming season? To see all the versatility and new works to Charlotte! Very exciting things happening at the ballet!
- Favorite fairytale: Sleeping Beauty because I love, love, love that ballet!
- Advice for aspiring dancers: “Always be the best YOU. Be inspired by others but only compare yourself to you the day before. There is only one you and you’re beautiful.”
