You are now part of Luial, the all-Ireland dance company?
There had been meetings over the past year or two and I had been part of surveys carried out by Irish dance community.
We eventually found out that Liz Roche and Nicola Curry were going to be key figures in the company and that was wonderful because I had worked with both of them and knew how impressive their work was.
From there I applied to audition, and I felt very fortunate to be selected for an audition, and equally fortunate to be offered a role in the company.
And what has happened since the company has been set up?
I have been in Dublin since late November and we have been working towards our premiere in May at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre and then we tour, performing in Wexford, Cork and Belfast.
And is this new work?
Yes, this is new work and my role is that of a company dancer. There are 8 core dancers and there are choreographers who come in who work with us to create the new pieces.
What about your own work?
I have my own company, based in Northern Ireland, called Seen Dance Company and I working away on my work as well. I am hoping to get a commission this year and I am hoping to develop my own choreographic voice as we go along, although my work with Luail is a priority. We are working 9 to 5 and that takes a lot of energy and effort.
You have to take really good care of your body, your fitness, your diet and you have to rest. I do Yoga and I make sure that I warm up properly and cool down as well. We are athletes effectively which is another aspect of working as a dancer.
Where to now?
I am really enjoying Luail, and all the opportunities and challenges which accompany being a full-time dancer. I do see myself working in Northern Ireland in the future but I am very happy to be a part of a very exciting period for dance right across the island of Ireland.
If you want to follow the work of Clara Kerr see the links below
