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20 Questions with Second Soloist Miyoko Koyasu
November 30, 2021
Miyoko Koyasu. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to go for walks, cook, or watch TV.
What would you have done as a career if you hadn’t pursued ballet?
Something to do with international communication.
Have you ever had an embarrassing moment on stage?
Once while I was leading the line during the snow scene in The Nutcracker, I did completely different steps and I heard laughs from the audience.
What is your work philosophy?
Respect others and work hard.
Miyoko Koyasu. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
How do you handle criticism?
I try to not take it too personally and appreciate their honesty. That’s easier said than done though…
What’s your definition of a successful ballet dancer?
I don’t think there is any definition for that but when I hear from audience members or co-workers that they have been inspired or moved by my dancing, I feel everything I have put into my work has been worthwhile.
What’s the best thing about being a dancer?
I get to be different characters and tell stories through dancing, even when the piece is abstract. I get to connect with people in a particular way, which I think is pretty special.
What’s the worst?
The pain!
What music are you listening to right now?
I’m into 80s rock right now.
What are three things most people don’t know about you?
I grew up next to a rice field in Japan.
I love to bake and cook.
I have a certificate to teach English for English Second Language learners.
What was the last thing you changed your mind about?
I can handle watching scary movies.
What cheers you up on an off day?
Spending time with my friends.
Do you have any bad habits that you’re working on breaking?
I am a very soft-spoken person. I’m working on speaking more clearly, both in Japanese and in English.
What is your favourite onstage memory?
I love the moment before the curtain opens, when the theatre goes very quiet, just music playing, and the stage lights go on.
What is your favourite ballet?
I can’t choose just one…
Which of your costumes have you really fallen in love with?
Valencienne in The Merry Widow. I like the golden coat from Act III. It’s very heavy but worth wearing it! It’s absolutely gorgeous!!
Miyoko Koyasu with Artists of the Ballet in The Merry Widow. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
What’s the biggest risk you have taken, either personally or in your career?
Definitely moving to Toronto at age of 16.
Where would you like to travel, and haven’t yet?
Italy!! I was going to go in 2020 but unfortunately I couldn’t.
What’s the top item on your bucket list?
Climb Mt. Fuji.
What sports would you compete in if you could go to the Olympics?
Judo!
Read Miyoko Koyasu’s Biography