Jasmine Cruz

In a pair of pointe shoes, she’s effortlessly regal—but take those pointe shoes off, and Jasmine Cruz will show you her spunky side. The 12-year-old’s solid technique and infectious personality helped her snag a gold medal at the World Ballet Competition in 2012, and earn first place in both classical and contemporary for the pre-competitive age division at 2013’s Youth America Grand Prix Semi-Finals. Last year, Jasmine also won New York City Dance Alliance’s National Mini Female Outstanding Dancer title.

“While I enjoy dancing variations, I love learning contemporary choreography. For me, the best part has always been getting to see the journey of a new dance.”

(Photo by Allison Schultz/New York City Dance Alliance)

Fast Facts

Birthday:
January 31, 2002

Hometown:
San Francisco, CA

Studio:
Westlake School for the Performing Arts

Favorite dancer of all time:
American Ballet Theatre soloist Misty Copeland

Favorite food:
frozen yogurt

Dance idol:
San Francisco Ballet principal Maria Kochetkova. “She’s petite like me, and she’s broken a lot of boundaries in the dance world.”

Favorite dance movie:
First Position

Dream dance role:
Kitri in Don Quixote or Swanilda in Coppélia