The Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg is one of the world’s premier centers for ballet. Dating back to the 19th century, it has been cultivating the world’s most influential talents and taking the best of Russian ballet around the globe. It is also the second home of Xander Parish, who is now the principal dancer of the Mariinsky Ballet Company. Parish left his hometown in England to pursue ballet at the age of 11, fueled by a sense of adventure and ambition. Eight years ago, he made the tough decision to move to Russia at age 23. He said he has fallen in love with the country and is fulfilling his ballet dream.

What was it like for him to come from humble beginnings, and dance his way to become a professional ballet dancer? CGTN's senior correspondent Tian Wei had an interview with Parish, where he shared his experience.

"When I was 11, I decided to take ballet. When I was 10 years old, my Dad said to me, ‘The choice is yours, you must choose what you want to do, your life is your life, you must pick,'" said Parish, who then followed his heart and chose ballet.

He later joined the Royal Ballet School. Parish said the experience of traveling three hours from his small town to the bustling city of London at such a young age was “exciting.” 

However, beyond the excitement, Parish had to work very hard in London to hone his skills. “I wasn't naturally gifted with the ability; I found it very hard actually. I love performing. I love being on stage. I felt confident on the stage, but in terms of technique, I had to learn. I had to work twice as hard as my contemporaries."

Parish found himself under great pressure in ballet school as his friends became his competitors. He had to compete for the top place in the class. Anyone who scored below 50 percent during the term would be expelled from the school.

Despite this, Parish was encouraged by his parents. His mother would always say, "Without pressure, there will be no diamonds."

From humble beginnings to the world stage, Parish said it's his desire that has helped him climb to the top. "Inside of myself, I have desire; the number one step is desire. I wanted it, I wanted to dance. "