Southern Belle: Nashville Ballet's Sadie Bo Harris Brings Maturity and Depth to Her Roles

This story originally appeared in the October/November 2014 issue of
Pointe.

This is your 14th season with the company. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Pace yourself. You’ll miss a lot of knowledge if you’re focused on obtaining status. Be as present as possible. When you’re just seeking the next thing, you’re not in the moment.

When you’re performing roles like Odette/Odile in Swan Lake, how deeply do you get into character?

I really feel the character. I would hiss at my partner.

Do you create characters in nonnarrative dances?

The narrative is your personality. That’s why a lot of choreographers like older dancers, because we have more to say.

What skill would you most like to have?

I would love to be a great orator—I love hearing inspiring speeches.

You meditate regularly. What initiated that?

Pain management. I’ve dealt with chronic tendonitis since 2005. I used to have nightmares about chopping the hurting part off. Meditation has helped me feel whole and reconnect with my body. It helps me visualize pain differently.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

I religiously watch “Fashion Police” on the E! channel. I have an infatuation—obsession?— with fashion.

If your life were a ballet, which character would be your soul mate?

Siegfried. Is that too obvious?