Since joining the Moscow City Ballet in 2008, the principal dancer Lilia Orekhova has travelled the world portraying the bashful Giselle in the 19th century ballet with the company. Her technical finesse with clean lines, pirouettes and arabesque movements have made her one of the most sought after young dancers ar the company. Having honed her skills at the Donetsk Choreographic Institute in 2006 and practicing at the Donetsk Theatre of Opera and Ballet, she now takes on several roles, including Odette and Odille in Swan Lake, Princess Aurora and Princess Florina in The Sleeping Beauty and Flower Fairy in TheNutcracker. Ahead of her performance with Moscow City Ballet in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this weekend, Orekhova tells us how she motivates herself to keep learning

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a dancer?

I think it’s not uncommon among dancers, but recovering from injury and coming back to the stage is one of the greatest challenges I faced in my carrier.

Do you have a pre-performance ritual?

It’s more of a process, rather than ritual. I like to go for a walk in the morning before the ballet class to clear my mind, then do the class and rehearsals. I have to be in the right frame of mind.

What do you have for breakfast, especially before rehearsals?

It’s generally a normal breakfast at the hotel. All I would say that moderation is very important, though.

A hobby not associated to dance?

I love seeing new places, exploring the cities I visit. I wish I had more time to do that. Ballet takes up most of my time, however, if I do get an opportunity to learn something new or see some great attraction, I always take it.

Ballet slippers aside, what sort of shoes do you like wearing on a daily basis?

I like high heels and just beautiful shoes in general.

Three things you carry in your purse all the time?

My wallet, my phone and the keys from home. I like to keep in touch with my family.

Your favourite holiday destination and why?

We travel a lot. I had a great opportunity to see so many different countries and cities. When it comes to holidays, however, I prefer somewhere warm and near the sea.

Your thoughts about performing in the UAE?

The UAE audience is very warm and the local people are friendly and welcoming. It’s a great opportunity for me show them my art.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

I am full of energy and enthusiasm for dance. I’d like to see myself performing on stage in 10 years time, expanding my repertoire, enhancing my mastery of classical style and widening my experience to other dance styles.

• Giselle will be performed at Ductac Mall of the Emirates on November 21. Tickets are priced from Dh200 on www.ductac.org. Moscow City Ballet will perform the ballet at Emirates Palace on November 23. Tickets are from Dh150 on www.ticketmaster.ae