From dreaming big as a little girl to performing on stages around the world, Nicole Ferreira-Dill’s journey is a true testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Driven by her biggest childhood dream, Nicole turned her aspirations into reality through hard work and dedication. Her story is a reminder that with enough determination, even the most whimsical dreams can come true. Here’s a look at how she made her ballet dreams a reality.
The journey…
Nicole Ferreira-Dill began her ballet journey at the tender age of five, mastering both the Cecchetti Method under Joy Cooper and the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus with Michelle Naudé. Her dedication and talent were evident early on when she won the RAD Advanced 2 Bursary in 2006. Two years later, she achieved the prestigious RAD Solo Seal, guided by her coach Natasha Ireland. At Pro Arte Alphen Park School, Nicole broadened her dance repertoire by training in Jazz, Spanish, and Contemporary Dance. She gained international experience by participating in the Prix de Lausanne in Switzerland during 2004 and 2005 and attending the Bartholin Dance Workshop in Copenhagen.
Nicole’s professional career began at the South African Ballet Theatre (now Joburg Ballet), where she completed her Graduate year in 2007 and officially joined the company in 2008. Her exceptional talent and hard work earned her the title of Principal Dancer in 2018. In 2014, Nicole’s artistry was further recognised when she performed as a guest artist with the Tivoli Ballet Theatre in Copenhagen. Beyond performing, she has also contributed to the development of future dancers, being appointed as a teacher for the Val Whyte Bursary in 2016. Her international experience includes touring with Joburg Ballet to Oman and representing South Africa at the SA National Day in Hong Kong in 2019.
The memories and highlights…
After 17 years with the Joburg Ballet, how are you feeling now after your final farewell performance?
I feel extremely proud of what I achieved at Joburg Ballet. I had an amazing career, filled with the most beautiful performances and wonderful opportunities. I had so many special moments on and off stage which I will always cherish. I am feeling satisfied with my career as I always worked hard with great dedication and passion. I loved every minute of my career and I am thankful that all my dreams came true.
Can you share with us how you first got into ballet and what initially drew you to this art form?
As a little girl, my mother would take my sister and I to the Theatre to watch PACT Ballet perform. The dancers were so graceful, the costumes and music so beautiful and I clearly remember falling in love with this art form. When I was about 7 or 8 years old, we watched Swan Lake at the State Theatre in Pretoria and that was the ballet that inspired me. I remember thinking that is the ballet that I want dance, that is the stage I want to be on, I want to be a swan!
Reflecting on your career, which performances or roles stand out as the most memorable for you?
My biggest dream as a little girl was to dance the dual role of Odette and Odile in Swan Lake. This was one of my highlights when my dream came true in 2015! Swan Lake to me was the ultimate ballet and to be able to say that my biggest dream came true really is very special. My favourite role of all time is the principal role Camille in Veronica Paeper’s La Traviata – The Ballet. This is the most beautiful ballet and the ballet that I have loved dancing the most. I am grateful that I was able to end my career dancing Camile in La Traviata as my final performance. My other highlight and dream that came true was when I was promoted to Principal dancer! This is the highest rank in the company and it was an honour to receive this title. The stage is an extremely special place and there are so many special performances over the years that I will remember.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced throughout your career, and how did you overcome them?
I only had one serious injury over the years which was a stress fracture in my left ankle. Serious injuries are always a challenge for any dancer or athlete. I had to be patient and let the injury heal 100% even though all I wanted was to be in the studio and work on my craft. The biggest mistake that is sometimes made is not being patient with your body and coming back too soon after an injury and that only causes more injuries. I was fortunate to have a brilliant team to help me through the injury and I never had any other serious injuries.
How do you feel your style and approach to ballet have evolved over the years?
One of the principles that I applied over the years was to be able to adapt to the different styles of each Ballet. I always respected the coach/producer that was in the front of the room and let them transform me into the specific character needed for the Ballet. Once they were happy with what they had produced then I would start adding some of my own personal touches. I would always try and stay true to what the style and the character of the ballet was but each time I got to repeat a role I would improve and build on the character.
Have there been any mentors or colleagues who have significantly influenced your career, and in what ways?
There were so many people from dancers and coaches over the years that had a huge impact on my career, which I am so thankful for. Many people supported me during crucial times in my career from my family, teachers, coaches and fellow dancers. Always people that were willing to help and guide me. There were always dancers that I could look up to. My mindset was to improve each day and I was able to recognise the beautiful qualities in different dancers and would apply what I learnt from each of them.
What are your plans and aspirations for the next chapter of your life?
I really want to start a family, so I am hoping there will be a little baby soon. I have built up a wealth of knowledge and professional experience over the years and therefore I will continue working in the ballet industry. I will not be leaving the ballet world soon and I look forward to teaching and coaching! One of my strongest attributes has always been my strong mind and so I am very interested in the psychology and mental side of being a professional athlete and artist. This is another field for me to explore and now I will have more time to educate myself in this field.
What key piece of advice would you give to young dancers just starting their journey in ballet?
To me, this is the best career in the world and if you really want it, then go for it! You must have the mindset to want to improve everyday and certainly you have to put in an immense amount of hard work. Stay focused, stay dedicated, stay passionate and never stop learning!
What message would you like to share with your fans and the ballet community?
Firstly, I want to say thank you for all the love and support that I received over the years! I loved performing for our audiences here in South Africa, it is my home and this is where I build my career. Ballet is my passion and I loved this career with all of my heart! I want to thank everyone that was there by my side helping, supporting and guiding me over the years! It is a gift to be able to share your talent and I am grateful that I was able to perform for so many years in front of thousands around the world.
Where can people keep up with your journey and future endeavours on social media?
People can follow me on Instagram @nicoleferreiradill.
Thank you, Nicole, for showing us that dreams really do come true. Your journey is an inspiration to us all. We wish you every success in your future endeavors and look forward to seeing where your passion takes you next.
Nicole Ferreira-Dill’s Bio courtesy of the Joburg Ballet.
Image credits to Lauge Sorensen.
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