Prima Ballerinas 140

## The Heart of a Dancer: A Life with Carla Körbes My journey as a ballerina is entwined with the fiery spirit of Brazil, the meticulous precision of German training, and the boundless energy of youth. It's a story I'm still writing, one chapter at a time. From Carnival to the Stage I was born in 1981, in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. As a child, I wasn't particularly drawn to ballet. The samba rhythms, the vibrant costumes, the captivating energy of Carnival filled my world. It was my grandmother who ignited the spark, enrolling me in ballet classes. The disciplined structure of the studio felt like a stark contrast to the joyous chaos of my everyday life. But beneath the discipline, I discovered a beauty I had never known, the delicate art of storytelling through movement. My love for ballet blossomed as I delved into the world of classical repertoire, enthralled by the intricate steps, the lyrical grace, the profound emotional expression. My early days were fuelled by the passion of Brazilian dance, the vibrancy of the music and the unrestrained energy. Across the Ocean: Finding my Form At the age of 13, my journey took a dramatic turn. I received a scholarship to train at the prestigious John Cranko Schule in Stuttgart, Germany. The shift was momentous. The stark European landscapes, the meticulous focus on precision, the unyielding discipline – it all challenged me deeply. Yet, in those rigorous studios, my talent bloomed. My youthful passion and boundless energy found a disciplined focus. I learned the value of meticulous technique, the importance of clarity, and the power of stillness in movement. I began to understand the nuanced art of ballet, the ability to convey profound emotion with a single gesture. In the demanding environment of the John Cranko Schule, I found my footing, refining my artistry under the guidance of eminent instructors like Birgit Keil and the legendary Marcia Haydée. The studio became my sanctuary, my life outside of ballet began to shrink as the intensity of training became paramount. From Apprentice to Principal: A Dance of Transformation At 19, I was selected to join the Stuttgart Ballet, a dream come true for any young ballerina. My heart raced with excitement as I donned the legendary tutu for the first time. My journey as a professional dancer began with a blend of excitement and apprehension. As a member of the corps de ballet, I immersed myself in the intricate intricacies of the grand ballets, from the classical beauty of "Swan Lake" to the dramatic power of "Giselle." But I longed for more. I wanted to tell stories, to breathe life into the characters, to translate the composer's music into movement. The opportunities came slowly, but each role was a building block in my growth. My first major role was as Kitri in "Don Quixote," a testament to my technical strength and dynamic energy. The playful innocence of the character, the joyous leaps, the captivating turns – it resonated deeply with my inner spirit. Each performance was a revelation, a challenge to push my limits and discover new depths within my art. The rigorous schedule, the tireless rehearsals, the adrenaline rush of the stage – it became my life, a life dedicated to the pursuit of perfection in movement. The Embrace of Classical Tradition and Modern Innovation Over the years, my repertoire broadened, embracing both the classical tradition and modern creations. I had the honour of working with choreographers such as John Cranko, Marcia Haydée, and the iconic William Forsythe. I embraced each new choreography with an open mind, expanding my artistic horizons. Working with William Forsythe proved to be a turning point. His unconventional approach to movement, the challenging and abstract nature of his pieces, the interplay between the human form and space - it forced me to question everything I thought I knew about ballet. I discovered new ways of expressing myself through the body, delving into the language of modern dance, its raw energy and profound emotional depth. But, the classics continued to hold a special place in my heart. Performing "La Bayadere," "Giselle," "Sleeping Beauty," I found a deeper appreciation for the elegance and grandeur of the classical tradition. These iconic roles became a tapestry of emotion woven through intricate movements, each gesture infused with history and elegance. Breaking Barriers: Leading with Strength and Grace My rise through the ranks was steady and driven by my commitment to excellence. My focus, my stamina, my commitment to perfecting every movement, every nuance – it earned the respect of my peers and the admiration of the audience. I became the first Brazilian dancer to lead a renowned ballet company, an achievement that brought me immense pride and a sense of responsibility. It was a milestone that reinforced my commitment to showcasing the power of talent and dedication, transcending cultural boundaries. As the leading figure on the stage, my role evolved. The responsibility of shaping the art form, of guiding the younger generation, became equally as important. Mentoring young dancers, encouraging their ambitions, passing on the knowledge that had been imparted to me became a new and crucial chapter in my journey. Beyond the Stage: Giving Back, Finding New Meaning Beyond my artistic pursuits, my journey has taken me in unexpected directions. As a teacher, I find myself in a new role, guiding students, nurturing their dreams, helping them discover the power and joy of ballet. I founded a project for children, sharing my love of dance with those from underprivileged backgrounds, using ballet as a tool for empowerment, social integration, and artistic expression. My path as a ballerina is still being paved, a work in progress, always evolving. There is a beauty in that, a constant striving for perfection. It is a journey shaped by the lessons I have learned on the stage, by the dedication of the people who have helped me along the way. It is a testament to the heart of a dancer, always reaching for the impossible, embracing the challenge of expressing the most profound emotions through the poetry of movement.