Flathead junior Larissa Marceau has leaped one step closer to the epitome of grace and athleticism — becoming a professional ballerina. Marceau was selected at the Montana Dance Arts Association workshop in Missoula April 24-26 to attend the Hartford Ballet School in Connecticut on a full scholarship for six weeks this summer. “I really wanted to go someplace big, out of state,” said Marceau. “It was the biggest scholarship they gave for ballet.” At the dance school, Marceau will dance from 9 in the morning until 9 at night, with pointe and ballet class every day, combined with an alternating schedule of jazz, modern dance and partnering. “Actually, it kind of inspires you — you’re in such good shape so you’re not as tired,” said Marceau. “When you start dancing lots then you go home, you miss it.” Marceau said dancing with people from across the nation, with different styles, will increase her knowledge of dance. Marceau was chosen to attend the summer seminar from more than 50 Montana auditioners. “I think it’s kind of humbling,” said Marceau. “I’m proud I got it, but it can depend on the teacher and what they see for your potential. A lot of other people have talent, too.” This recognition ingrained in this scholarship comes after 14 years of dance; Marceau has danced since age three. “I’ve always wanted to dance,” said Marceau. “When I was two, my mom asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I said ‘a ballerina’ — but I don’t think I really even knew what it was.” Marceau’s first performance was as a blue fairy in a spring recital at age 3. She has since performed in spring recitals every year, and since age 12 has danced in the winter Nutcracker Suite. At age 12, Marceau first began dancing with toe shoes. “You have to be 12 to get toe shoes. It can hurt your feet,” said Marceau. “Your toes curl, but my aren’t too deformed.” After fulfilling her dream of becoming a ballerina, Marceau plans on teaching at the elementary level. “A dancer’s career is not that long and there is always the threat of injury,” said Marceau. “So I’m planning on teaching because I love teaching little kids.” In preparation for her teaching career, Marceau is teaching and choreographing a dance for 12-year-old dancers with junior Courtney Jacobson. Jacobson was also chosen for a dance scholarship — hers to Bozeman — but as she may go on an AFS exchange, she is undecided about accepting the scholarship. Marceau said teaching the youngsters in their first toe dance has allowed her to get close to the students. “It’s a mentoring situation,” said Marceau. “I get to be friends with the little kids.” Despite long hours of practice and years of dancing for a professional career, Marceau said she can’t imagine life without dance. Said Marceau: “It’s always been a really big part of me; dancing is more than what I do — it’s who I am.” |
