So it really does have a sort of bittersweet quality. Kids like to have adventures and to believe they can fly, but there's also that fear about people leaving you.

Actually, performing is a lot like golf. You are alone, so vulnerable.

I'll talk to kids afterward and somebody will always say, 'I'll leave my bedroom window open for you.

In high school I never went to the prom because I was too consumed with gymnastics. Also, with my hair in pigtails and looking about 10, I wasn't exactly date material.

I just like to act.

Acting allows me the freedom to let go, to be in the moment, to be spontaneous. I no longer have the fear of losing, of failure.