It's "The Nutcracker" season and wide-eyed children everywhere are filing sugarplum fairies away in their earliest holiday memories. But for Argentine-born Paloma Herrera, who celebrated 20 years with the American Ballet Theatre this summer, the Tchaikovsky classic is just the next curtain call in the whirlwind life of a prima ballerina. Before taking the stage in ABT's version (debuting December 14 at the <a href=http://www.bam.org/nutcracker>Brooklyn Academy of Music</a>), we spoke with Herrera about dedicating herself to dance 24/7.Typical Workout: I usually begin with Company class in the morning for an hour and a half. Then I’ll have several hours of rehearsal throughout the day. If we’re performing, I’ll start to prepare and then have the performance at 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. Secret to ballerina bun perfection: <a href=http://http://www.amazon.com/Garnier-Fructis-Style-Brilliantine-Glossing/dp/B000NOFZTY target=_blank>Garnier Fructis Shine Glossing Spray</a>. It makes my hair shine for performances and prevents frizziness. Favorite tights: I always wear <a href=http://http://www.blochworld.com/shop/c-32-tights.aspx target=_blank>Bloch</a> when I’m dancing. Where she feels most at home: New York, because I feel at home as an artist. And Buenos Aires, because I have my family and friends there. What we’d be surprised to find in her fridge? Nothing! I always eat very healthy and basic food. Why a 6-year-old would hate her diet: I love broccoli, cauliflower and brussel sprouts. I usually steam them. All-time favorite place to dance: The MET. Best insider tip from an instructor: "Be happy with yourself." Favorite meal: Sushi in Japan. Her latest obsession: Vinyasa and Bikram yoga. Why you shouldn’t invite her on a cruise: I don’t take vacations. I really love what I do! Best gift she’s ever received: To be able to dance. What totally relaxes her: Listening to music, reading and a hot bath. Libraries or e-books? Libraries!!! Number one reason for taking care of her body: To prevent injures and because it just makes me feel good. If she weren't a dancer, she would be: Um, I have no idea. Message she’d like to send the world. (Only catch: It has to be 140 characters or less.): To be very generous and think about others to make the world a better place.

Q&A with Paloma Herrera

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