PIERCETON MAZELL – BALLET DANCER

CS: What groups do you currently perform with?

PM: I am a full-time company dancer with the Chattanooga Ballet.

CS: What is the No. 1 thing you enjoy about performing?

PM: The feeling I get on stage is unlike any other. Nothing comes close to the excitement of showcasing art through athleticism.

CS: What has been your favorite role or performance, and why?

PM: I’ve most enjoyed performing alongside the Kyiv City Ballet last October. It was inspiring to witness the Kyiv City artists continuing to produce art during a time when their home country is under attack. It was truly an example of how important the arts are to the human spirit in times of great uncertainty.

CS: Describe what your training looks like.

PM: Monday through Friday I take a company class, which is primarily ballet technique, for an hour and a half, then I rehearse or learn new choreography for about three hours. Although hours are fairly short in the studio, dancing is a lifestyle-dependent career. As a dancer, my body is my only irreplaceable tool, so I must treat it well by eating nutritious meals, staying hydrated, and doing lots of cross training such as lifting weights, deep stretching, and yoga.

CS: What are some common misconceptions people have about the performing arts?

PM: Growing up as a boy in tights was certainly not the typical experience as a young person. Lots of friends and their families were simply not accustomed to the idea of a boy dancing, especially not making a career out of it. Many would say dance is only for girls, but this is not the case. I would encourage any parent with a son who wants to dance to, at the very least, let them give it a try.

CS: In your opinion, what makes a good performer?

PM: A good performer must be honest. Great technique is cool, doing the correct steps is nice, but why are we doing these steps in the first place? I ask the question constantly. I’d much rather observe someone telling an honest story – with human passion and character – than a purely technical showcase of ballet. Of course, technique should come as a priority, but if not expanded upon, can be detrimental to the audience’s perspective. We do this selflessly for the audience, and they will soak up honest emotion over technique.

CS: What’s one piece of advice that you have for someone considering entering the performing arts?

PM: If you love it and feel the calling, put your foot on the gas and don’t look back. Never forget what got you hooked in the first place, and push to get out of your comfort zone as often as you can.