*Chris Flores and Claire Simmons for Little Women Ballet’s Autumn Immersive.*
*Photography by Edie Tyebkhan*

1. Tell us a little about your dance background, how long you have been dancing, and what inspired you to pursue ballet?

I’ve been training in dance my whole life. I grew up performing in annual Nutcracker ballets and competing in dance competitions throughout Northern California. I continued dancing in college at UC Irvine, where I earned a degree in dance performance. Since moving to Los Angeles, I’ve danced professionally with several companies, including Universal Studios Hollywood. My favorite styles of dance are contemporary and musical theater, but ballet will always be special to me. I love that Little Women Ballet allows me the opportunity to continue performing this classical form of dance in a new way. The special emphasis on storytelling in ballet is so beautiful and makes it a joy to perform.

2. What are the specific challenges of portraying your character through dance in Little Women?

Beth March is a bit misunderstood by the public. People are quick to say she was too kind for this world, which ultimately led to her passing away so young. She was just as real as her sisters. She had her own opinions and ambitions and she experienced the full scale of emotions, even frustration. Portraying someone who always seems happy, even as her illness progresses, while there are more emotions under the surface is a challenge. I hope I can add more depth to her character.

3. Can you describe your favorite dance or scene in Little Women and what makes it unique to you?

I really enjoyed Beth and Jo’s duet in the Fall Immersive because we had to play off of each other to convey the full story. Beth and Jo were trying to comfort each other: Jo stayed by Beth’s side throughout her illness and Beth encouraged Jo not to worry about what will happen when she’s gone. Throughout the duet, there’s a battle of resistance and acceptance. My favorite part is at the end of the piece. Beth is looking up at Heaven, Jo is struggling with Beth fading away, and then, at the last second, Jo accepts the truth and gives her sister a comforting hug. It was always an emotional moment to perform.

4. How do you approach telling a story through dance movements and expressions?

I like to understand the story and research it as much as I can. I concentrated on Beth’s story from the book and saved key quotes to a photo album on my phone. When considering the performance, I first focus on what I would do as a normal person experiencing certain emotions. I like to find the natural reaction first and then consider how to best accentuate that feeling to fit the performance. Other things that helped me with this process include, watching the 2019 film and cast interviews and making a Spotify playlist for my character to tap into my emotions.

5. Have you found similarities between yourself and the character you portray in the ballet?

Yes, Beth and I do share similarities. I think we both appreciate the simple things in life, while also having a strong sense of determination to meet our goals.

6. What message or emotion do you hope to convey to the audience through your performance?

I think it’s easy for audiences to see Beth as a one-sided character, the dying sister, so I hope I can show audiences that she is so much more than that. She is as well-rounded as all the other characters.

7. How do you work with the choreographer and fellow dancers to convey the overall narrative of Little Women through your movements?

Emma is clear with intentions throughout the choreographic process. She informs her dancers of each movement’s purpose and how it relates to the overall story. Our recent rehearsal process involved a new duet between Beth and Jo. Emma choreographed it with the dancers in the room, so it really matched our natural movement quality.

8. What do you hope the audience takes away from the production after watching your performance in Little Women?

I hope they have a deeper appreciation for this classic American story. And, of course, I hope they enjoy themselves and want to come see us again.

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