Whether it’s her ball change or the storytelling that comes from her contemporary dance, Marissa van den Berg sets any stage she finds herself on alight with her pure talent.
She further proved this when she became the only South African ever to be placed in the recent Top 20 American Dance Awards.
The Hoërskool Randburg learner had to qualify as one of the top six South African dancers to enter the American Dancer of the Year competition in Providence, Rhode Island. At the competition, they had to do four audition classes – ballet, contemporary, tap, and one title solo. The marks of the classes and the solo were added together in order to determine the top 20 dancers.
Marissa explained that it was an interesting experience as she had only participated in European dance competitions. “The American style is very different from what I am used to competing against. But I learned a lot. It is the first time that any South African has ever placed in the Top 20 in their first year of competing, so I felt honoured and proud to be in the top ranks of such a big competition.”
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She started ballet at three years old and joined The Jozi Youth Dance Company at the age of 12 where they have the privilege to work with world-renowned choreographers and dance teachers.
“Dance is who I am; it is my lifestyle. I have been dancing since I can remember, therefore I cannot imagine my life without dancing. Dancing is my safe space and where I can express myself through movement. I love it because I can share messages through my art form without even saying a single word. I have changed from a beginner to a confident, well-trained dancer who is ready to enter the professional world.”
She added that her dance teacher, Jayd Swart, makes sure that her technique is top-class and exposes her to different opportunities. Her dedication and mentorship have taken her dancing to the next level.
Marissa trains five hours during the week, and on Saturdays they usually dance the whole day to perfect her craft. “I hardly ever get the chance to socialise outside of dancing. I am a perfectionist and therefore there is always more work to be done.”
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