Dance Student Spotlight: Amy Grace Westcott

My name is Amy Grace Westcott and I am 13 years old. I am located in Noosa and my studio is The Dance Centre Peregian Springs (@t.d.c.p.s).

@amy_grace_ballet

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

I started ballet when I was 3, but I properly started when I was 6. Then I danced recreationally until I was 9, and then I started vocational training. I went full time at 10, and also went on pointe at the age of 10. When I was 11, I auditioned for Queensland Ballet academy and the Australian Ballet School and successfully got into both programs. I am now currently still in both programs at the age of 13, level 4 Queensland Ballet and level 3 Australian Ballet. I got to where I am today through my incredible teachers and the support of my family.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

It has been a mixture because I have had to work extremely hard, but now it is starting to feel easier because of the work I have put in.

What personal limitations if any did you go through in your young career?

My personal limitations would have to be that I used to have not much of an arch.

Has anybody ever tried to limit you on what you could do? If so how did you fight it?

No one has ever tried to limit me.

How do you conquer negative talk?

I try to remember that this is my journey and the only person in control of that is me.

What is your favorite quote?

My favourite quote is:
"Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful." - Annette Funicello

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

My big plans for next year are to compete in Alana Haines and to continue with Australian Ballet and Queensland Ballet.