I met Maxwell and his parents at Dance For Life Chicago and thought he’d be a great interview for 4dancers. Learn more about him here…

1. Tell me a bit about your background in ballet.

I took my first ballet class when I was four  – in my neighborhood – a way for an overactive kid to burn off some energy.  I did that until the “boy taking ballet” teasing kicked-in, and then I switched to Jazz.  I concentrated on Jazz for a few years and ended up at Giordano Dance where a very wise teacher explained the importance of ballet.  I have had a love-hate relationship with ballet ever since! Studying with many great Chicago Ballet teachers – Lizzie MacKenzie, Laura Wade, Homer Bryant, Claire Bataille, Mike Gosney, Peff Modelski, Fury Gold, I also concentrated on summer programs that were strong in ballet   – Milwaukee Ballet, Haird Conservatory, San Francisco Ballet, American Ballet Theatre and The Juilliard School.

 2. What are you currently doing?

I am pursuing a BFA in Dance at NYU – Tisch School of the Arts – in my second year of a three- year program.

3.  Can you share some of the best advice you have received from a teacher/mentor?  

I feel so blessed to have a great support system from my family, friends and teachers. It has been eye opening, as I expand my dance universe, not everyone has it.  It has made me appreciate ALL the support that I have.  The very best advice that I have received is, “There are things in store for you that you can not even dream of. Just let it unfold.”

4. What is the thing you enjoy most about being a dancer?  

When I am able to give-in and experience true release – allowing the music, movement and environment to consume not only the audience but the performers.  I love being attuned to my own body and soul; dancing is an expression of my whole self.

 5. What has been the high point of your career so far? [Read more…]