Influencer: Meet the Ballet Dancer from Barrington

What sparked your interest in ballet dancing?

I fell in love with ballet when I went to see Ballet RI’s production of The Nutcracker for the first time when I was about five years old. I knew from the moment I saw the dancers leaping gracefully in beautiful costumes across the stage to Tchaikovsky’s music that I had to be a part of it in some way, so I enrolled in Ballet RI to start my formal training.

What does a daily training regimen look like for you?

Every morning I wake up and have a nice cup of Earl Grey tea. Definitely a necessity! Then it’s off to the studios to roll out my muscles and stretch before our daily technique class. After class it’s rehearsals until the end of the day. Then, I find a quick bite to eat before heading back to the studio to teach character dance classes at Ballet RI.

What’s something non-dancers might not know about your craft?

Ballet takes a lot of extra cross-training, and being exposed to different styles of dance and athletics can actually enhance the artistry and physicality that we use. So much hard work and countless hours of preparation, repetition, and training go into every aspect of each production that we do. The attention to detail and constant push for perfection is what makes ballet so special to me, and the opportunity to meet and dance with so many talented dancers from all around the world. I love that we’re all able to come together and share our love for dance with so many people every year.

Out of all the performances you’ve done, which one is your favorite?

One of my favorite roles I’ve performed is the nutcracker in our production of The Nutcracker. It really feels like I’m actually going on a magical journey every performance. From the intricate sword-fighting choreography in the battle scene, to the frolicking-through-the-snow scene with the snowflakes, and finally performing tricks during the trepak dance in the land of sweets, I feel like I’m able to really develop the character.

What are some of your favorite things to do when you have free time?

I love to walk downtown along the Riverwalk, or any of Rhode Island’s beautiful beaches. I also love getting delicious Indian food at Not Just Snacks on Hope Street in Providence after a long day of rehearsals! Learn more about Maio and this month’s performance of The Nutcracker (December 19-29) at BalletRI.org