Q&A with Soloist Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan

Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan and Christian Poppe, photo © Angela Sterling.
April 2023

Do you have pre-performance rituals? 

I love matching the leotard I wear in class to the costume I’ll be wearing in performance.


Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan, photo © Angela Sterling.
Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan, photo © Dan Lao.

How has your approach to the career changed over time? 

After experiencing my first injury last season, I understand the importance of working smart, not hard. I feel I am so much more mindful when I dance now. It took me learning I am not invincible to be kinder to my body. 


Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan in Tarantella, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, choreography by George Balanchine © The George Balanchine Trust, photo © Angela Sterling.

What is the best advice that you’ve ever received? 

Never compare your path to others! We are all on our own journey and have our own timelines. 


Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan in Dances at a Gathering, photo © Angela Sterling.
Sarah-Gabrielle Ryan and Kyle Davis rehearse Giselle, photo © Lindsay Thomas.

Do you have talents or passions outside of dance? 

Acting and karate (Kenpo) are two of my favorites. I find they’re helpful in dance as well. Acting helps with the storytelling we convey in ballets. The moves I learn in karate often feel like picking up combinations in class. 

What are your favorite Seattle haunts? 

I originally took this question way too literally and felt the need to say that the Haunted Underground Tour and the Georgetown Morgue are fun spots. 

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