Today we’d like to introduce you to Misa Mochizuki

Hi Misa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

I’m originally from Japan. I started ballet when I was 5. In 2012 I came to New York with student visa, and then I got an artist visa in 2019. So officially I’m a professional dancer in United States now.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

It was not easy at all. When I was still in Japan, I constantly participated competitions. I practiced more than anybody. But most of the time I couldn’t pass even first round. I always felt jealous of my friends who got better results. I didn’t have typical ballet shape. I was too fat, and that stress made me even fatter. On the other hand, I already knew I’m gifted. That’s why I felt frustrated that I couldn’t prove that to the world.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

My job is simple. Basically I rehearse and perform on stage. I like the words “God is in the details”. When I rehearse especially with partner, we talk a lot about details. Because I always have an exact vision and goal when I dance. For reaching that goal, we build up the piece little by little in each rehearsal. And that’s a fun moment of creation for me.

I always rehearse like I’m on stage, and perform like I’m rehearsing. On stage we can only show what we build up in the rehearsals. I trust the process and my partner, and try to let everything happen on stage.

Who else deserves credit in your story?

First, I appreciate my parents. They always support me mentally, physically and economically. Recently they visited New York and enjoyed my show. I was very happy to have good time together.

Second, I appreciate my ballet teachers in Japan. They made my base of technique, and that still really helps. Without them, I couldn’t keep dancing.

Third, I appreciate my Alexander Technique teacher, Naoko. My New York life was always with her. She taught me how to use body, how to dance, how to express emotions, how to live as professional dancer and mature person. She is sometimes like my sister, my mom and my grandma. Without her, I couldn’t survive in New York.

Forth, I appreciate my ballet coach in New York, Luis. He rebuild my ballet technique. Especially he taught me what the energy is. I always love listening to his story when he was dancing with all the legends.

At last, I appreciate my New York family. They became angels in heaven. But I never forget how they love and support me like a real daughter.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @misafullmoon
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misa.mochizuki.50?
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@misamochizuki1187?si=itl4rhT4q0746GDz

Image Credits

Headshot, Rachel Neville

1, Fernando Alvarez

2, Conrad Turner

3, Dirk Reps

4, Conrad Turner

5, Dez Santana

6, Vasilis Argyropoulos