Eric Underwood Eric works extensively with the Royal Ballet

Dancing was something I stumbled across when I failed in an acting audition. I went into read a monologue for a performing arts school and forgot the words. I walked out and saw some girls stretching for a dance audition. I found it interesting and thought “Well, I’ll try that.” I boarded at the American School Of Ballet.

The idea of living, training and schooling in the same place can seem very daunting, but I think I saw it differently. I was 14 and I was getting the chance to live with other kids my age and study ballet – it was a dream come true. It can be very physically challenging, but the good thing is that you can see the work transform in front of you. Before I go on stage I feel anxious, but I love the adrenaline rush, it’s unlike anything else. I work quite closely with the Royal Ballet’s resident choreographer. He gives you a structure to work with and then allows you to put bits of yourself within it. Being involved in the creative process makes you grow a lot as an artist.