Company Archive - Ballet RI

Training/Education: International Ballet Academy, Ballet Idaho Trainee, Ballet RI Trainee, ABT Certified pre-primary to level 3, BA in Liberal Studies from University of North Carolina at Greensboro cum laude.

Favorite quote: “Stay afraid, but do it anyway. What’s important is the action. You don’t have to wait to be confident. Just do it and eventually the confidence will follow.” – Carrie Fisher

Favorite ballet and why: Giselle is my favorite ballet because it was the time I really felt how difficult ballet was. Being in the corps as a wilis was incredibly difficult but it was also so fulfilling.

An accomplishment you’re most proud of: Creating my first of piece of choreography that I did on the dancers of Ballet RI. It was really scary to be a trainee choreographing on the company dancers, I had to overcome a lot of anxiety. Choreographing that piece gave me so much confidence and joy for continuing dancing.

Fun fact about yourself: I was born on the Ides on March.

Shawn Pearson

Name: Shawn Pearson

Hometown: Houston, Texas

Joined: 2025

Training/Education: Vitacca Ballet School and Nashville Ballet’s Second Company

Favorite Quote: “Live fast. Die young. Be wild. And have fun.” – Lana del Rey

Favorite Ballet & Why: My favorite ballet is William Forsythe’s Blake Works I. I am drawn to the way the music combines with the energetic, free, and precise movement, creating a performance that feels both dynamic and inspiring.

An accomplishment you’re most proud of: Signing my first professional contract at 17 with Nashville Ballet.

Fun Fact about yourself: I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 12, and have been balancing life with an autoimmune disease while pursuing my passion for dance. I also have 2 hidden tattoos.

Sarah Van Breemen

Name: Sarah Van Breemen

Company Position: Apprentice

Joined Ballet RI: 2025

Hometown: Highlands Ranch, CO

Training/Education: Rocky Mountain Ballet Academy, Nashville Ballet’s Second Company

Favorite Quote: “Ruh-Roh” – Scooby doo

Favorite Ballet and why: My favorite ballet is John Neumier’s Lady of the Camellia’s. The emotion, acting, costumes, and music take my breath away. I hope to be able to perform the role of Marguerite one day.

Accomplishment I am proud of: Attending public high school all four years and still graduating with a professional contract.

Fun Fact: I enjoy painting in my free time.