Emma Von Enck's Grace: "Dance Sets Me Free"

The YGP (Youth Grand Prix) Experience Intensive , which came to Milan for the first time, celebrated its grand finale. This evening, the final gala, “Stars of Today meet the Stars of Tomorrow,” was held in collaboration with the Ukrainian Ballet Academy . A week in the city, young students participated as professionals in an intensive workshop, studying with some of the most esteemed ballet masters and directors of academies and companies. This evening, at 8:45 pm at Castello Sforzesco , Emma Von Enck , Principal Dancer with the New York City Ballet, will be among the talented performers.

Emma Von Enck, what does dancing in Milan mean to you? "I was fascinated by the city's architecture and wanted to visit it. For twenty-four hours, I wandered the streets and squares, trying to absorb as much as possible: from the lively cultural venues, the people, to the delicious food. It was the first time I'd danced abroad alone, without company. Returning to Milan today to dance at the Castello feels incredible and special."

And passing on her youthful experience to budding dancers? "It reminds me of when I was a student myself, striving to perfect my technique and develop the quality of my performance. This mindset will never leave me; I continue to work to grow as an artist. I hope the students from all over the world enjoy this Milanese experience of art and beauty; it's a wonderful opportunity to learn and create lasting friendships."

How did she start dancing? "I'm the youngest of three sisters. Our parents gave us the freedom to choose an extracurricular subject, telling us that whatever we decided, we had to commit ourselves fully. And so it was. They never imagined that all three of us would choose dance. Today, it's our profession. As the youngest, I accompanied my two older sisters with my mother."

Which role changed her the most? "Rubies's pas de deux from George Balanchine's Jewellery. I love the playfulness, agility, and joy of Igor Stravinsky's music. I discovered new sides of myself as an artist, a young woman, and a dancer."