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20 Questions with Corps de Ballet Member Konstantin Tkachuk
6 avril 2023

Konstantin Tkachuk. Photo par Karolina Kuras.

The National Ballet of Canada is proud to welcome Konstantin Tkachuk to the Corps de Ballet, one of several new dancers to join the company in 2022/23. Originally from Ukraine, Tkachuk danced previously with Mariinsky Theatre, Eifman Ballet and Mikhailovsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. He moved to Canada to escape the war and make a life for himself and his family in Toronto. His answers have been translated.

What inspired you to join The National Ballet of Canada?

Big changes that took place in my life in 2022 and moving to Canada (Canada is a great friend to the Ukrainian people). The National Ballet of Canada is the best ballet company in this country and with its history, interesting repertoire and wonderful artistic team, I knew I would be happy here.

What would you have done as a career if you hadn’t pursued ballet?

I would have become a surgeon so I could help people. It’s an incredibly important job.

Have you ever had an embarrassing moment on stage?

Of course! Usually when I forget the order of something or if I fall on stage.

What is your work philosophy?

Word hard, achieve your goals and look after your mental health.

How do you handle criticism?

By staying positive. You can always fix something and try to be better.

What is your definition of success as a ballet dancer?

To perform with minimal injuries and work with many different choreographers.

What’s the best thing about being a dancer?

Having the opportunity to improve my body, work creatively and travel.

What’s the worst?

Injuries and constantly fighting against laziness since you always have to be in peak condition mentally and physically.

What music are you listening to right now?

Classical, techno and pop.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Just relax and enjoy the time away from ballet.

Adage or allegro?

Something in the middle. A bit of everything!

Konstantin Tkachuk. Photo par Karolina Kuras.

What is your perfect meal?

Healthy food – vegetables, fruit and meat.

Do you have any bad habits you’re working on breaking?

Perfectionism and cleaning…

What is your favourite ballet?

I can’t single one out. Each ballet has something about it that I like.

What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken, either personally or in your career?

Every time I changed ballet companies I took a risk. In a sense you’re always starting from the beginning again.

Could you name someone who has mentored or inspired you?

Vladimir Denisenko, my teacher from my final courses in Kyiv. I’m very grateful to him. He was an incredible teacher and person.

Where would you like to travel, but haven’t yet?

I would like to travel within Canada and get to know it better, particularly its natural beauty.

What’s the top item on your bucket list?

I can’t name just one. My priorities are family, self-development and travel.

If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be?

I just wish people paid more attention to style. Of course, this is not the main thing in life, but it would make things brighter and more fun.

What sport would you compete in if you could go to the Olympics?

Long distance running.

Learn more about Konstantin