MARIANA ZSCHOERPER

What inspired you about the Cinderella production?

What were you most excited about?

I was definitely excited to see the ideas and Choreography that I had planned become reality in the dancers' bodies and how once it was out of the paper it started to have its own life. It was extremely exciting to see this happening and to guide it as it was happening. The pool of creativity just grew and it was a very rewarding experience. This was a larger cast for a dance production. How were you able to share your vision and uphold the intent behind the work?

I felt like the best approach was to have a clear vision but to make sure that the initial idea did not get in the way of creating a beautiful show. Sometimes, stepping away for a day or two helps you reshape an initial idea if challenges come to play Problem solve and use it to enhance the creative process.

When choreographing, what is your approach?

Do you let the music inform your movement? I like to use music as inspiration but not to always inform all of the movement.

How do you determine how many dancers will be in each piece? That is variable, with this ballet was more of a matter of designating roles that would showcase the best of each dancer.

Throughout your career you’ve also been a mentor and educator. Can speak on the importance of education in the arts, specifically dance?

I am extremely passionate about educating dancers of all ages, teachers and audiences. There are still a lot of concepts in Dance and the arts that come from lack of knowledge or misinformation. I feel responsible for creating a prosper and healthy atmosphere for anyone who wants to learn more about Ballet/Dance

What is in store for the future of SJDT? What are you most looking forward to?

I am of course excited about our next Nutcracker and about rebuilding again some of the Choreography of it.

Why do you feel it is important for our academy dancers to have the opportunity to perform with the company?

The Company dancers have a lot of stage experience in comparison to our students and observation is an excellent learning tool to say the least. It also works as a model to be followed, something to aspire and inspire them to continue to grow.

Who is your biggest inspiration in choreography? Mats Ek.