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Profile
of Lindy Mandradjieff, Intern, Pittsburgh Youth Ballet, 8/05
Photo and Story by Sarah Kotzman
PPW/Writing Center Publicity Intern
 For
over 20 years, Lindy Mandradjieff has successfully followed her
passion for ballet. When she was sixteen years old, Lindy joined
the San Francisco Ballet. After touring with them throughout Europe
for 4 years, she moved to the New York City Ballet. There, she danced
for three years, performing soloist and principal roles. Now, Lindy
has begun to move into a different light— out from under the
stage lights—into the professional world of writing.
The location is familiar: Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Company, a studio
where she teaches dance. But after her students have performed their
arabesques, Lindy travels to the other end of the building: the
offices. Here, she interns, writing anything from student evaluations
to proposals for upcoming performances; it all depends on the dynamic
events of PYBC.
Even though she is the youngest staff member, and 1 of 5 adults
amidst students, Lindy feels respected because of her past success
in the ballet world. The compliments she has received on her writing
have also contributed to her comfort. “Everything fell into
place right away,” Lindy says, explaining that her family-oriented
co-workers are extremely close and supportive. “I just had
to make everyone aware that I was ready to help in another capacity
besides teaching.”
Lindy has attended the University of San Francisco, St. Mary’s
College, and U.C. Berkeley Extension. She holds a BA with an emphasis
in dance and is working toward her PPW certificate at Pitt. Though
balancing school, teaching, and an internship has made for a tough
year, Lindy feels happy with her progress. “After the dedication
and discipline I have shown my whole life as a dancer, I am really
enjoying being a normal person. I love doing new things.”
“My goal now is to just be happy with whatever I decide to
do,” Lindy says, fulfilled with her career in dance performance.
She plans on taking on another internship, (location T.B.A) as well
as staying with PYBC. “PYBC has been a part of my life for
as long as I can remember. I love teaching and I love being there.
It will always be some part of my life and career.”
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