NYCDP Questionnaire:
Devon Teuscher, Soloist with American Ballet Theatre What career would you chose if you could not be a dancer? DT: I have a serious love for dogs, so maybe something to do with animals. What are your worst fears (professionally or personally)? DT: I can be quite afraid of heights. Sometimes even in partnering I get the fear of being too high off the ground. Which person (dead or alive) would you most want to dance with if you could? DT: I feel like it would be such a joy to simply be on stage with Irina Kolpakova when she was in her prime. She is a coach of mine currently, and the amount of charisma and charm she has now is outstanding. I think she would just resonate joy and freedom to anyone that had the honor of watching her. If a child told you they wanted to be a dancer, what would your advice be? DT: Have fun! Don't stake yourself too seriously. My mother used to tell me "keep working at it as long as it is fun. If it stops being fun then you don't have to do it anymore." I think it is so important to recognize an remember the joy in dance. If you could be an animal, what animal would you chose and why? DT: I would definitely be a dog. They have this crazy ability for unconditional love and companionship. I wish I could be more like that. Also, the sleeping and getting belly rubs all the time doesn't sound too shabby What is your greatest indulgence? DT: I have a pretty big sweet tooth. I think it comes from my grandmother. She used to sneak me candy every night when I was a kid. What 3 items do you always have in your bag with you? DT: In real life I have started not carrying a bag. I find them to be cumbersome and annoying and often hurt my back. I have generally just started stuffing my packets full of stuff like a man! I also tend to carry my dog in a bag. He rides the subway in a small tote bag. In my dance bag, I always have a pair of socks, toe pads and pointe shoes. Those are the general basics that I need for class at anytime. What career would your family have chosen for you? DT: My dad is a scientist and my brother is an engineer. I think they definitely would be inclined towards something in math or science. What is your idea of perfect happiness? DT: "Happiness is like peeing in your pants. Everyone can see it, but only you can feel it's warmth." This quote was on a card my mother sent me years ago and I think it describes perfect happiness. Who would you like met to have a coffee with (could be dead or alive)? DT: I don't drink coffee. But I would love to have a hot chocolate with my grandmother. I never met her, but I have only heard some incredible and unique stories about her. What is your favorite city to tour to and why? DT: My favorite city to tour to was Muscat, Oman. Oman was the most geographically diverse place I have ever travelled. It is truly a beautiful place. Also, I really felt honored to be performing in a place that may not otherwise have the opportunity to see dance and ballet. What is your biggest mishap in a performance? DT: I had an entire ribbon come unseen in the beginning of a pas des deux. I continued on and did the whole pas with my two ribbons tied together and dangling from my shoe. I was pretty mortified! Is there a special meal you have before performances? DT: No, I don't like to eat anything too heavy before a show though. So I generally end up eating a really big meal after the performance.
Hair and Makeup by Juliet Jane
Tutus from Chacott by Freed of London, White dress by Karen Young