Isabella Boylston

I had quite a surprise yesterday when, while walking up the central staircase of the Vaganova Academy, I encountered the school's vice principal giving a tour to a guest. She was soon introduced to me as "Isabella... from America". It was Isabella Boylston, soloist from American Ballet Theater.

I was thrilled. It is exciting to have the opportunity to meet famous dancers in person, but this was even more special than just that; far away from home and one of just a handful of trainees who come from the United States, it touched me deeply that Isabella Boylston is a dancer who comes from the same place as I do.

She had come to Saint Petersburg to rehearse for an upcoming appearance (later this spring) as a guest artist with the Mariinsky Ballet. I hope that all goes well for her. Maybe I'll even be able to go see the performance!