#TBT: Sara Mearns in "Grand Pas Classique" at YAGP

International ballet competitions are designed to showcase a dancer’s talent and performance skill—which also happen to be the two aims of Victor Gsovsky’s Grand Pas Classique. The female variation consists of steps that align with the music, supporting dancers through difficult moves and reinforcing their musicality. In 2001, Sara Mearns competed in Youth America Grand Prix with this virtuosic variation. Now a principal with New York City Ballet, she had already begun to develop the fiery conviction that has become the trademark to her dancing.

Despite any stumble or awkward transition, her final ballonnés define what it means to be “on your leg.” Watch to see how Mearns’ attitude and confidence would launch her to a fulfilling career. Happy #ThrowbackThursday!