What inspired you to become a professional ballerina?
I don’t really remember or have an exact answer for that but my mom says that since I was a very young kid, 2 y/o, I said I wanted to do ballet and I never stopped since then!! I also watched a lot of the Barbie movies, one specifically was called Barbie and the 12 Princess Ballerinas. On the DVD there was a documentary about a ballerina that danced for New York City Ballet and I used to watch the documentary over and over again and I wanted to be like her. So I guess from that moment on, I wanted to make Ballet my profession!
What productions have you been a part of that we may be familiar with?
Probably the most known one is The Nutcracker. I’ve been in several productions with different companies. My first one was in Brazil (it was my first paid job in dance) with a Company called Cisne Negro and they have the biggest Nutcracker in my country. This was in 2018.
How did you get into the dance company that you’re a part of?
Well, I sent an email with my resume, a few videos and photos of me dancing. Then the director invited me to an in person audition (a ballet class) and a few days later I received a contract.
What is one of the most challenging things you have to face at work as a Christian?
I would say the problem of gossiping and judging. The dance industry is FULL of that and it is a big thing. I try to stay out of it. Also, sometimes having the faith to say “NO” for different opportunities that will compromise your faith. I have been through that and God has blessed me abundantly after I choose my faith over work.
How would you advise someone to best handle this challenge–your biblical best practice?
Literally praying a lot and asking tons of advice!! I think the scripture that helps me the most is Matthew 6:25-34. God says He will provide everything if we seek his kingdom and his righteousness.
How do you prepare for your work day i.e. your morning routine?
I usually wake up around 7AM, I make my coffee (my husband got me a cappuccino machine!), and I like to sit down at my table with a candle and read my Bible. Having this moment with God in silence is so important for me, then after that, I usually spend some time with my husband and start to get ready, like washing my face, putting on a little bit of make up, choosing my clothes then packing and preparing the food to bring with me. I usually cook more at night and bring leftovers or just simple snacks.
What are you reading in your quiet times lately?
I am reading Exodus and the gospels at the same time.
What are you learning in your quiet times?
I think something I’m taking out the most this time around is having faith in God. It sounds so vague but seeing in the Old Testament, the character of the people in the Bible, perhaps their fears or their insecurities, but in the midst of that, they still had faith in God and did what God has asked them to do. It’s a big thing! And with the gospels, it’s strengthening my faith and deeply understanding that anything is possible with God. This year I made a few impossible prayers, and God has shown me a few signs that they are not impossible, I feel super blessed!
What advice would you give someone trying to make dance their full-time profession?
Have lots of patience and faith. The full-time contracts may take longer than you expect. I like to think about enjoying the process until you get there, like doing different gigs, taking open classes and meeting new people that eventually can help you in the future.