This article originally appeared in the Spring 2025 Pink Issue of Showstopper Magazine.
As a dancer with YYC Dance Project and Acrobatic Arts, Alexandra Sandoval has trained hard to master ballet and acrobatics, two styles that demand strength, flexibility, and a ton of dedication. We talked with Alexandra about her journey in dance, her unique mix of ballet and acro, and her big moments on stage—including her unforgettable experience on Canada’s Got Talent.
Ballet + Acro
When it comes to combining ballet with acrobatics, Alexandra said the two styles “complement each other and help [her] grow stronger.” Ballet, with its focus on detail and control, has taught her about perfecting each move. “I love ballet for its precise movements,” she explained, “and acro lets me build strength and flexibility while exploring my body’s limits in a safe way.” While acro is undeniably tough, she puts the work in in both genres. “If I’m not sweating as much in ballet as I am in acro, then I know I’m not working hard enough,” Alexandra added.
Canada’s Got Talent
For Alexandra, performing on Canada’s Got Talent was “unreal.” She admitted feeling nervous at first, but once she was on stage, it was all about fun. “The experience was amazing!” she shared. “I was so nervous at first, but then I let go and focused onhaving fun and enjoying the moment with my friends.”
If you love to dance, never stop!
Preparing for the show took months from learning choreography to dress rehearsals that made the group feel ready to perform. “Our instructors supported and guided us every step,” she said. “It was a lot of work, but it was definitely worth it!”
An Emotional Performance
While performing on TV was a huge thrill, Alexandra’s favorite performances are often at her studio’s year-end show. “It’s emotional since it’s the last time we perform with our Grade 12 friends,” she shared. Having family in the audience makes each performance even more special. For Alexandra, dance is about connection—with her friends, her family, and the audience. “Dancing at our year-end show fills me with happiness, sadness, and excitement. I think about the future and feel grateful for the gift of dancing and sharing these experiences with my friends.”
Hard Work, Big Goals
To stay in top shape for ballet and acro, Alexandra takes her training seriously. “I make sure I’m eating well, getting enough sleep, and being nice to my body,” she said. Every time she trains, she tries to make each move count. “I aim to make the most of my time in class and give my best effort every time.”
Her inspirations? The older dancers in her studio. “Even when I wasn’t old enough to take their class, I’d go watch the classes that they were in,” she explained. “I remember standing in front of the door and wanting to be as good as them. They continue to inspire me to this day.”
I have great trust that the work that I do will lead me to where I am meant to be.
For other young dancers interested in ballet and acro, Alexandra’s advice is simple but powerful: “If possible, do both!” But no matter what styles you choose, she believes that every dancer’s path is one-of-a-kind and worth pursuing. “There is space for everyone in dance,” she added. “Believe that you belong and that what you’re doing has a purpose. And if you love to dance, never stop!”
