Dancer Fun Facts | Lezlie Gray

Dancer Fun Facts

Jun 21

Get to know the professional artists of Ballet 5:8 as we ask them about their hometowns, favorite dance memories, and people who helped them succeed.

*A young Lezlie Gray with her teacher, Miss Sherry*

Where is your hometown? What is it like?

I am from Wilmington, Delaware in a pretty typical suburban area. It’s a small state, so there are many things nearby within a relatively short driving time. I love exploring all that DE and the surrounding area have to offer, but my favorite would have to be spending time at the Delaware beaches.

Is there one person that helped you get where you are today? If so, tell us a little about them and your journey.

My ballet teacher Miss Sherry played a huge part in helping me get to where I am today. I began taking lessons with her when I was 11 and started training with her privately when I was 13, continuing until I was 18. She had so much knowledge to share with me about ballet and really sculpted me into the dancer I am. I don’t think I would be where I am without her.

What is one favorite or funny memory from your years of dance training?

My favorite memory was getting to perform the role of Clara in The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker was the first ballet I ever watched, and I just fell in love with it. Afterward, I told my mom I wanted to be Clara one day and I started dreaming about becoming a professional ballet dancer when I grew up. When I was 15, I got to perform the role of Clara, which was a sweet moment in fulfilling my 8-year-old dream—and now I’m a professional dancer.

Last thing—what in the upcoming 2021/22 season are you most excited for?

I am excited for so many things in the upcoming 2021/22 season, but I think I’m most excited to tour again and take our ballets to different audiences across the country.