Company Connection with Ricardo Santos & Kathryn Meeusen

Ricardo Santos

Hometown: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Joined Ballet Arizona: 2016

What inspired you to become a dancer?

It was the challenges of dance that inspired me and being able to express myself through movement.  And because it was like I understood the language so easily – easier than academics.

What has been your favorite role to dance?

I have a couple of favorite roles but if we are talking about a storybook ballet, I would have to say Mercutio from Romeo & Juliet. It was the most emotionally challenging role I have yet to do and the most gratifying.

Do you have a pre-performance ritual?

I like to relax as much as I can and get ready early that way I can listen to the music of what I am going to dance,  go through in my mind what I’m going to do onstage, going through all of the nuances I’m going to use and what parts.

What do you do when you’re not training or performing on stage?

I usually work out to keep somewhat in shape, watch different T.V. series, go out dancing, and drive for Uber.

Kathryn Meeusen

Hometown: Romeo, Michigan

Joined Ballet Arizona: 2018

Who is your greatest dance inspiration?

I don’t have one inspiration that has molded me as a dancer, but I do draw inspiration for my work from all areas of my life. My family, friends, peers, teachers, faith, and past experiences all feed into my dancing and inspire me in this career.

Do you prefer modern or classical ballet?

I love classical ballet, but recently I prefer dancing neoclassical type work. I find those kinds of ballets give a little more freedom of movement and room to express myself.

What is in your dance bag?

Pointe shoes, flat shoes, Thera band, toe pads, toe tape, pointe shoe glue, bouncy ball/tennis ball/lacrosse ball/massage stick for rolling out tight muscles, leg warmers, a skirt, booties, my mustard colored puff vest, water bottle, iPhone, and headphones!

What do you do outside of dance?

I love to bake! I also really enjoy practicing yoga.