Limor Ziv

Name: Limor Ziv
Age: 24
Born: Israel
Lived in Scotland: 18 months 

Born and raised in Israel, ballet dancer Limor Ziv trained at the Bar-Dor and Telma Yalin Ballet schools before joining the Israel Ballet in 1999. At just 18, this was a remarkable achievement but Limor had a desire to travel and tread the boards on some of the most famous stages around the world.

After touring with the Israel Ballet to China and Finland, Limor moved to the UK in summer 2002 and settled in London. Her first experience of Scotland was not until late 2003 when, as part of Scottish Ballet, Limor performed in The Nutcracker. Having enjoyed her time in Scotland so much, she soon found herself moving north and rejoining the company in the autumn of 2004.

Limor said:

"I had such a wonderful time in Scotland during my short time here and I was desperate to come back. The people were so friendly and welcoming and I was particularly struck by the relaxed atmosphere in Glasgow which was a welcome relief having lived in London.

"I had heard great things while in London, both about Scottish Ballet and Scotland as a whole, so when I was given the opportunity to audition for The Nutcracker I didn't have to be asked twice. I certainly wasn't disappointed when I arrived and I fell in love with Scotland instantly.

"So far, my time in Scotland has been wonderful. I have been made to feel so welcome and have settled into life very easily with the help of friends and colleagues. I have also fulfilled a lifelong ambition by dancing at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre.

"I've been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to travel during my time here and see some of the famous Scottish scenery and coastlines. I will never forget the day I drove up to Inverary, the scenery was breathtaking and it was such a lovely sunny day which I’ve learned can be quite rare in Scotland.

"I was also bowled over when I visited Arran; the combination of the hilly countryside and the picturesque coastlines makes it a particular favourite of mine.

"I've also learned that you can't plan the future but I do hope to stay in Scotland and see more of this beautiful country, in particular the Isle of Skye which I have heard so much about."