Japanese born Akiko Ishii lives on and loves 17th Ave. Along with the rest of the Alberta Balletdancers, she spends a lot of time on the avenue. This season she is starring in Alberta Ballet’s beloved holiday favourite “The Nutcracker”, playing the roles of Klara and the Sugar Plum Fairy When she isn’t busy in rehearsals with the rest of the cast, you might just spot Akiko on 17th Ave – check out her favourites below!
What is your favourite coffee shop on 17th Ave?
I personally like Starbucks and Analog, they have great coffee and Analog’s sandwiches are amazing. It’s great that they both open so early so I can grab a coffee on my way to rehearsals in the morning.
Favourite restaurant?
I love UNA Pizza and Moxie’s – when we go out on a Friday night that’s where we head to. I also go to Thai Thai for their dumplings.
Favourite shop?
Gravity Pope – always such cute shoes and they also have some great deals around this time of year.
What does your perfect day on 17th Ave look like?
I would get up, grab a coffee, then pick up some necessities at Shopper’s before heading down the avenue for some shopping. While wandering 17th I would hope to run in to a friend or company member so we can go to Moxie’s. After dinner we would grab frozen yogurt for dessert from Menchie’s or Tutti Frutti – dancers love frozen yogurt, we feel less guilty eating it than any other dessert!
See Akiko perform in The Nutcracker by Alberta Ballet in Calgary from December 19 – 24 at the Jubilee Auditorium.
