Violeta Angelova
The Vio Shop
After we interviewed Ballerina, Violeta Angelova I thought it might be fun to talk a bit about her new venture, “The Vio Shop” as well. It has some unique items for sale that dancers might appreciate, such as posters, signed pointe shoes and even a children’s book.
One rather unusual item is the “Angel” Tutu, pictured here to the right. It comes in both white and pink, and it is decorated with crystals pearls and Swarovski elements. This is a professional grade tutu, that is half the price you generally find in the better class of costumes. Since it is custom-built, it fits each dancer perfectly. Designed by Violeta herself , the bodice to skirt proportions and the decorations were chosen with a professional dancer’s eye.
Another item that was created by Violeta is the Viotard. This one-of-a-kind leotard has an extremely bold design, and it was based on the dancer’s own personal style. There are two different versions of the piece–one that is red with red mesh, and a second that is red with nude mesh. The Viotard Violeta came up with is made in the US by LOLAstretch, a company that is known for producing creative designs.
The item that perhaps most intrigued me was the perfume, “Violet Rose“. Rose oil is considered an aphrodisiac by many, and there is a bit of a story that goes along with this particular version, as it is 100% pure Bulgarian rose oil from the Rose Valley. What I found so interesting is that Violeta’s mom was born in that valley, making this a uniquely personal item to sell in the shop.
To learn more about current offerings, or to see when new things are added, take a look at the shop on Violeta’s website.
10 Questions With…Violeta Angelova, Ballerina
Today we have a special treat for 4dancers readers…an interview with Violeta Angelova…a young, and very talented ballerina…
1. Tell me a bit about your background in ballet.
I spent substantial time in the Vaganova training, then the Western school and am now immersed in American ballet.
2. What are you currently doing?
Right now I perform for The Suzanne Farrell Ballet at the Kennedy Center in Washington.
3. Can you share some advice for those who want to be a professional dancer?
Dancing is a commitment. And there is a difference between the lives of professionals in ballet and the lives of professionals in competitive dance for example. In any case it is hard work, so make sure you know what you want and what you are getting into.
4. One thing I noticed about you is that you have a very creative spirit. Do you think that adds something special to your performances as a dancer, and if so, how?
It depends on the role or style I am dancing. Some parts allow more room for flair than others. I have been told I surprised people by elements I add. But I can’t really see myself so I can’t give more definitive answer here.
An intelligent mind is indispensable to any artist. Especially if one is to enrich or challenge the audience. With dance you also need your body to facilitate your vision.
5. What is the high point of your career so far?
Carrying a show or meeting the President could qualify. But it was realizing that I have to follow what is within me and should not hide that I am different.
6. Can you tell me about any challenges that you have faced in dance and what you have done to overcome them?
I am an imperfect perfectionist. I cope with that every day.
7. What does your warm-up consist of before a performance?
Usually it’s half an hour to an hour of warm-up exercises plus another hour for hair, make-up and shoes preparation.
8. Can you share five items you can’t live without on tour?
Pointe shoes, underpants, water. Can’t live without them, hehe..
I like to be comfortable when traveling, so I take things. Sometimes situations have you go without the elements you enjoy. For me foam roller, foot roller, heating pad in winter, tea even in summer and iPod – these are all on the list.
9. You recently launched “The Vio Shop“. What does it have and how did that idea come about?
The idea just came to me. It was a while back and originally I dismissed it. Right now in the shop we have the “Angel” tutu, first model of the Viotard, gifts, among them posters. We might add more things in the future.
10. What is next for you?
Dancing, reading and hopefully spending more time on and showing original works.
Coming Up On 4dancers…
Just a teaser for readers to let you know that 4dancers has some great things ahead in the coming weeks, including:
- 10 Questions With…Violeta Angelova, Ballerina
- Several CD reviews for ballet class music
- Dance-related travel stops
I’ve got a few other big things “waiting in the wings”, but the ones above will be coming up soon, so check back often!
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