Talented ballet performer bids to crack America

Rachel has entered the Great Britons competition run by British Airways in connection with their sponsorship of London 2012. Being close to her family Rachel hopes that she is able to fly home for Christmas and holidays, which is why she entered the competition.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. (At White Lodge)

"I was continually pushing myself harder to improve and achieve my personal goals. I was always watching the older years and challenging myself to achieve their level.

"The greatest memories that always come into my head are of the ballets at The Royal Opera House that I have been fortunate enough to take part in.

"I had the opportunity to perform on stage with principal ballerinas such as Darcey Bussell, Tamara Rojo and Sarah Lamb & I was fortunate enough to be a party child in The Nutcracker which was probably my most magical Christmas so far.

"Another special memory I have is when I was lucky enough to be selected along with four other girls in my year, to take part in a BBC documentary with Darcey Bussell called 'The Magic of Swan Lake'.

"My five years at White Lodge passed so quickly but I am forever grateful for the wonderful training I had there, not only from the highly committed ballet staff but also from the supportive academic staff as well."

What did you enjoy about performing at the Open Days outside on the lawn ?
I really enjoyed them as it was something very different. We once performed on the tennis courts at White Lodge but mostly on a purpose built dance floor on the lawn. As I was a Junior Associate I was lucky enough to take part dancing in the open days for seven years running.

How did you feel studying in such an historic building ?
We were very fortunate to be studying at White Lodge. It was always very inspiring training in the same studios that many famous ballerinas have trained in. White Lodge from a distance in the park looks like a magical dolls house.

What did you like about being based in Richmond Park ?
I loved White Lodge being in the middle of Richmond Park as every day when I drove into school I got to see the deer and the wonderful setting that surrounded the school. It definitely made me feel very lucky and privileged to be a part of something so special.

Did you get the opportunity to visit Richmond and the surrounding area ?
Being a day pupil I got to visit Richmond and the surrounding areas frequently. The boarders could go into town at the weekend.

What did you dance at the Richmond Fair on The Green ?
Performing at Richmond Fair on the Green was great fun for us all, especially in year 9 when some of us were chickens from La Fille Mal Gardee wearing a big padded body with feathers, yellow tights and a red face piece!

Who inspired you at White Lodge ?
My inspiration at White Lodge was Darcey Bussell

What do you remember about your audition to White Lodge ?
I remember my audition for White Lodge as though it were yesterday. I had a large number 2 pinned on the front of my leotard and I remember us dancing in the Margot Fonteyn Studio Theatre. There was a Iarge panel with lots of the ballet staff on. I was very nervous and anxious but found the class very fun and enjoyed every minute of it!

Any advice for aspiring ballet dancers ?
Ballet can be such hard work and not always rewarding but if you want it enough and work hard enough then there is every chance you will succeed.

If you would like to vote for Rachel, please follow this link : http://www.greatbritons.ba.com/users/20572

For more information visit Cheryl Angear's website : http://elise-wwwwords.blogspot.com