An Interview With Cindy!

We caught up with Brandon Ballet professional artist, Sarah Dionaldo, to hear about her second time performing the lead role in Cinderella.

Do you remember the first time you danced Cinderella?

“The very first time that I danced in a production of Cinderella was for the Brandon Ballet. I was a Winter Fairy Corps member! I believe I was around 9 years old and I wore a nude unitard with white and blue paint splattered on it.”

What was your favorite thing about performing the role of Cinderella in 2018?

“Being able to perform as Cinderella in 2018 was a dream come true. It was my first lead role in a full length ballet. It was definitely a challenge but so rewarding. My favorite part was probably being able to do my first professional Pas De Deux with my friend Patrick.”

What have you learned in the 4 years between these productions? What’s something new you’re bringing to the role?

“I feel like I have learned so many things in these past four years. Improving my technique, strength, stamina and stage presence among others. Something new that I am bringing to the role of Cinderella this time is a sense of maturity and self assurance that I didn’t have the first time. I have come to know myself as a dancer and believe that now I can really step up my acting skills and be more at peace within the character, giving her more depth.”

What’s your favorite part of the ballet?

“That is so difficult! I love all of the acting in Act I with the stepsisters, the entrance of Act II with the light up cape, but especially the Act III Pas de Deux with the Prince. That is such a sweet and romantic moment and I remember throwing the last of my energy into it knowing I was almost done. It was a special moment and I am looking forward to doing it again.”

Catch Sarah in the Brandon Ballet production of Cinderella this April 30th!