What is your favourite ballet you’ve performed with the HKB?

Don Quixote. [The heroine] Kitri was my first principal role in a full-length ballet with the HKB. The role requires a strong level of technique, high energy and plenty of personality.

What is the one thing you always have in your ballet bag?

Nuun electrolyte tablets. Hydration is so important, especially when you’re on your feet sweating for eight hours a day.

How did you become a ballet dancer?

My mum was a bit of a tomboy growing up. She didn’t want her little girls to follow in her footsteps so as soon as my sister was old enough, at four, she put her into ballet. At two and a half, I so badly wanted to be with my sister in the studio that our ballet teacher at the time reluctantly allowed me to join the class. Twenty-seven years later, I’m still dancing.

See also: Hong Kong Ballet Makes a Glittering Return With George Balanchine's Masterpiece, ‘Jewels’

What do you consider your signature movement?

Maybe pirouettes? But I’d say my greatest strength as a dancer is my ability to move from step to step with fluidity and speed. I love a challenging sequence in a ballet. There’s something so rewarding about pushing your body to the limits and enjoying it at the same time.

What snack keeps you going through the day?

Every morning before work I’ll make a smoothie. Usually, it will have some frozen berries, banana, peanut butter and a supplement powder. Another snack is mixed nuts. These are easy to eat between rehearsals and super nutritious.

Do you have a secret talent?

Is making ridiculous facial expressions a talent? If so, then that’s it!

See also: Brazilian Dancer Daniel Camargo is the New Star of the Hong Kong Ballet