Thunderchild First Nation Ballerina

THUNDERCHILD FIRST NATION BALLERINA

Kia Jimmy is a member of the Canadian Thunderchild First Nation which is of the Plains Cree Tribe and is equally proud of her Japanese heritage. Following graduation from Alberta Ballet in 2019, Kia joined US International Ballet as a trainee for two seasons. She joined Verb Ballets as an apprentice in July. Kia's position is funded in part by the Verb Ballets Fund for Artists of Color.

Where did you grow up? I was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, a small city in one of the Prairie Provinces of Canada.

How does your heritage inform your work as an artist? Dance is an important part of who I am. As a Canadian artist/dancer, my heritage is also a part of who I am. My dad is American Indian and my mom is Japanese, and both cultures have dance and performing arts in their traditional heritage. I believe this is where my love for performing arts originates as it is deeply rooted in who I am. I represent the unique merging of both cultures.

How would you describe your relationship with dance? Growing up I was always the “quiet” one. Dance was a way to express myself without words. Dancing helped me gain my confidence.

Why did you choose to go into a professional ballet career? I started dancing when I was very young. When I was not at school, I was at the dance studio. It became a dream of mine to become a professional dancer. I chose ballet when I was asked to train with Alberta Ballet School.

What drove you to audition Verb Ballets? I was encouraged by a friend to audition. When I further researched the company, I felt Verb Ballets would be a good fit for me. My training at Alberta Ballet School was predominantly classical but also included contemporary. Verb Ballets combines both. I was drawn to Verb because it values diversity, which is extremely important to me.

How has your family supported your career? I’m very fortunate because my parents have always been extremely supportive of my goals and aspirations. From driving me to and from dance every night, to helping me move provinces and eventually countries, they have done it all and I’m extremely grateful.

What is an interesting fact about you? My given name. Kia Takara Jimmy. Kia is the Cree word for “your” and Takara, means “treasure” in Japanese.

Photo: Bill Naiman (2021) Dancer: Kia Jimmy