Name: Antonio Cangiano

Born & Raised: Naples, Italy.

Joined BH: 2019

Do you remember your first performance?

My first performance was when I was 8 years old in Italy. I danced with a group of ladies, which included my mom, to the song “She Bang” by Ricky Martin.

Why did you choose to come to Ballet Hispánico?

I was new to New York City, and I was exploring to see what the dance field in the city was like and what it could offer me. When I saw Ballet Hispánico in 2015, I realized it was the place where I wanted to be. I fell in love with the company’s fusion of music, dance and style.

How do you see dance progressing as an art form?

Dance, like many art forms, is in constant evolution affected by what is happening around us in today’s world. I believe that during this pandemic, artists have become more aware of how necessary it is for us to create art for ourselves and others to survive. Simultaneously, it has allowed us to expand our knowledge in finding new and creative ways to produce art.

Who has supported your passion for dance?

I’ve had many mentors and teachers that I’m extremely thankful for. Stefania Sansavini, director of ATENEO DANZA (IT), helped me understand from a very young age the importance of working hard to became a professional dancer and how beneficial it was for me to have an experience outside of Italy. Virginia Mecene, director of Martha Graham School and Graham 2, gave me a scholarship that granted me the opportunity to study and dance in NYC. I am extremely grateful to her because she allowed me to have my first professional experience with Graham 2 where I had the privilege to dance ensemble and main roles from the beautiful and iconic Graham repertoire. Nai-NI Chen, director of Nai-NI Chen Dance company whom I danced for the duration of two years. In those two years, I gained another rich and great experience as a working professional dancer. Antonio Fini, director of Fini Dance, who is an amazing curator of an Italian dance platform. He gifted me the opportunity to be noticed when I was back home. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. Dino Carano director of Acsi Ballet (IT) a great mentor that support my first steps in the professional dance world. Lastly Eduardo Vilaro, Artistic Director & CEO of Ballet Hispánico, for believing in me and giving me the wonderful opportunity to dance for Ballet Hispánico, the company I first fell in love with from the beginning of my chapter in NYC.

What was your favorite performance?

My favorite performance has been dancing with Ballet Hispánico for the first time at The Joyce Theatre in NYC in 2019. Performing on that stage with the Company made me realize how far I have come in my career as an Immigrant artist from the other side of the world.