Meet Rayana Fonte

We recently connected with Rayana Fonte and have shared our conversation below.

Rayana , so glad you were able to set aside some time for us today. We’ve always admired not just your journey and success, but also the seemingly high levels of self-discipline that you seem to have mastered and so maybe we can start by chatting about how you developed it or where it comes from?

My discipline comes from ballet, an art form synonymous with sacrifice, perfectionism, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. Ballet does not tolerate mediocrity; every rehearsal, every performance is a battle against the limitations of both body and mind. We are trained to reject failure, to fight relentlessly for every perfect movement. In ballet, “no” is never an acceptable answer, and second place is not an option. This relentless journey transforms us into machines of resilience, precision, and willpower, incapable of settling for anything less than perfection.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My journey began in 1994, when I was 6 years old and my mother, who was single, had to get me into physical activity because I liked to move a lot and she had to work for our survival and didn’t have time to follow all my energy.

Arriving at the Thalhe dance school, located in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro, the teacher Jorge Teixeira mentioned that I was too young to start any kind of dance at the school, but my mother, confident that I was capable, insisted that he give me just one chance to try.

Jorge, the teacher, agreed to do the initial test in tap dancing, which he believed was the most accessible for my age. Immediately, I exceeded all his expectations and so I was able to free up my studies, not only in tap dancing, but in all the other dance disciplines available at the school (jazz, modern, theater, ballet).

And so I begin my arduous journey, but one of love, hard work, responsibility, persistence and, above all, discipline.

I didn’t know it at the time, but my whole character, and the way I react to life’s obstacles, were beginning to shape up.
My courage, my sincerity, my empathy and my soul were built on the foundation of dance.

My routine was to go to school in the morning at 7:10am, come home for lunch, go to dance school at 3:00pm and come home for dinner and bed at 8:00pm.
At first I had weekends off, but when I turned 8 and started traveling to compete, my weekends were exclusively dedicated to training choreography at the ballet school.

As I developed, I got many certificates(Pg:366) for taking part in festivals, many awards and invitations to dance abroad, but as I hadn’t finished school, my mother didn’t think it was right and told me that everything had its own time and that my time would come.

It’s important to mention that in 1996 I didn’t have access to the internet, a computer or a cell phone, and even when the technology revolution began in the world, my family couldn’t provide me with such access, nor did Brazil have this innovation at the time.

I remember that when we traveled to compete in other states in Brazil, my mother would ask my teacher so that she could work, making food for the students, in exchange for free bus tickets, accommodation and fees.

When I was 13, I was asked to study piano, as it was necessary for my training as a ballet teacher, and so I did for three years.

While I spent an average of eight hours in a classroom training ballet, some of my friends, neighbors and family were idle.

Many of my friends outside of dance have gone through and still go through problems with drugs, drink, depression, anxiety, obesity and have difficulty discovering themselves as a person, a lack of self-esteem, difficulty setting goals and following through on them.

Unlike me, who dedicated my life, from childhood to adolescence, to evolving technically and being the best in my professional field with a promising future through dance. I have no regrets, and if I could go back in time I would do exactly the same, because I would know that the good harvest would be certain.

At the age of 15, I was already trained as a ballet teacher, and now at the Petite Danse dance school, still with the same teacher Jorge Teixeira, I had the pleasure of taking part in many social projects for low-income children, giving free lessons with the aim of helping to build and instruct the character of those who needed it most.
I firmly believe that the future lies in education and art.

Until I was 19, as well as working on social projects, I was a member of the Brazilian Ballet Company and Thalhe Cia Jovem de Ballet (Thalhe Young Ballet Company), being the youngest member of the company because I had advanced technique. I’ve taken part in major competitions and festivals, and have won many awards as a result, including several times at the largest dance festival in Brazil and the largest in the world in terms of number of participants, even being included in the Guinness Book of Records, the Joinville Festival, where I had the honor of being awarded second place, with no candidate reaching first place, with the choreography Gavotte, fourth place, with the choreography Sonho de Menina and third place with the choreography Biscuit. I won a lot of prizes at this festival, but because internet technology isn’t advanced at the moment in Brazil, when I asked for the documents they only found these files.

The Joinville Dance Festival, held annually in the city of Joinville, in the state of Santa Catarina, in the southern region of Brazil, is renowned for its difficult regulations, its huge number of participants from all over the world, and its extremely important awards.

As an adult, I realized that art in Brazil was not valued financially, it was time to gain my financial independence, and I had always dreamed big. I remember that I always wanted to be on Broadway as a child, or to be in the American Ballet, and that seemed far away, but inside me there was a force that gave me the certainty that I could have everything I wanted if I really wanted it.

When I was 20, I auditioned for Mauricio Cruz’s dance company and Paulo Franco Dance Company to dance in China, and it was a great experience for me to live in China for three years, where I learned the Chinese language and some English.

A very different culture, where I found it super funny and sweet that Chinese people queued up to ask for autographs and take pictures with me after shows in water parks, theme parks, theaters, circuses, TVs, parades, cruises, hotels.
Everything was new to me, it was in China that I performed my first shows singing and dubbing, my first TV commercials as the lead and billboard advertisements all over the country.

My home was in Shanghai, but my group and I toured all over China.

It didn’t take long for the Chinese contractors to appoint me as the company’s director and choreographer; they liked my innovative ideas and my discipline.
Even so, I continued to take part in the shows, there was no happier place than on stage and dancing the choreographies I had created.
I was also responsible for selecting dancers from Brazil to be part of the dance company in China.
This selection was made by me and I was responsible for judging the artistic material of each candidate.
Dance auditions are very competitive, the thrill of passing a selection is almost like winning an award. Out of 1,000 to 2,000 candidates in a selection, only 10 are selected for the job.

My Chinese boss wanted to extend my contract, but I had already been working in China for three years and opted to accept another offer that interested me more in Bolivia. Paulo Franco, director and choreographer, whom I had the pleasure of meeting and working with while still in China, invited me to work with him and so I began a new path of learning.

It was a challenging time in my life, because at the same time as I was invited to Bolivia, I received an invitation to work on a cruise in Europe, the Adriatic and the Mediterranean, with the Isabella Chiapetta International Ballet Company, where the salary would be higher than the contract in Bolivia.

Previously, I tried to work with dance on cruises, but my height at the time was 2 cm less than they needed and when I finally got to know them, and the quality exceeded the rules, I had to choose.

Even with the lower salary, my heart took me to Bolivia, where I certainly matured as an artist and a woman, I learned another language, Spanish, and I was the star of every show. That’s when I fell in love with musicals and show business and, fortunately for me, I was soon able to alternate it with working on the cruise.

Isabella Chiapetta was the director of the company, but the person in charge of the group on the cruise was the dancer and actress Livia Cury, whom I had the pleasure of meeting and learning from with her impeccable personality and quality of work.

At that moment, living each day in a different city, island and country was like living in a dream, I was fulfilled professionally, but with the feeling that I was still missing something, I was still thirsty for learning and I still felt the desire to see more places or, perhaps, the cruise began to make me miss the shore. At the end of the contract with the Europe, Adriatic and Mediterranean cruise, the company asked me if I wanted to renew the contract, this time with the Caribbean route, and I said no.

After the season on the cruise, Isabella Chiapetta, knowing my work, invited me to go on tour, on land, now in Chile with another group of dancers, where I worked and took part in the program “Outstanding Women”, with me as the lead in all the shows.

And because life is unexpected, my great love, my grandmother, needed me in Brazil. A great woman who taught me everything I know, gave me an education and above all love was very ill and my family needed support.
I would never forgive myself if I couldn’t spend that time helping the person who directly influenced me to become the strong and talented woman that I am.
Alzheimer, that was the diagnosis, her disease, at that moment, affected our whole family.

When I returned to Brazil, which is known worldwide for its rich cultural diversity, and samba plays a fundamental role in this scenario, I had the opportunity to be hired by Sidney Filardi, of G.R.E.S União da Ilha do Governador, as a choreographer, rehearser and judge of the dancers who at the time made up the front committee of the samba school in the parades of Rio de Janeiro’s samba schools in the famous and biggest carnival competition in the world.

I took advantage of this time at home to start investing my money and planning my financial life, my retirement and reallocating my finances. With self-employment on the rise in Brazil, private pensions are the best option for a secure future. I’ve always paid my income tax and I’ve been a good citizen.

In 2021, with the death of my grandmother and my dog, I had to take a gap year and decided to perfect my ballet techniques in New Zealand. Then, unexpectedly, at the same time, the world came to a standstill with COVID and I couldn’t leave for a year.

In New Zealand, my ballet studies were a success, and I also gained a lot of knowledge about dietary health, which is how my interest in nutritionism came about, as I was getting older and every ballerina needs to be in impeccable health and shape. It was 12 months of pure focus on ballet and health.

As soon as the pandemic was over, I returned to Brazil, because it was time to plan my next professional cycle.

One of my dreams is to open my own ballet school. And as my current financial situation is already relatively stable, this dream is close to being accomplished.

In September 2021, I started a new career, this time in New York. With all the know-how I’ve acquired in my profession, I always knew that ABT (American Ballet Theatre) was the best organization and institution in the world of ballet. And my ballet school would have more credibility and success if I were trained and a member of the ABT. So when my students had to pass their exams every year, an ABT official would go to Brazil to be the exam judge. In addition to me, the teacher and principal, they would also have a certificate from the institution.

I would have the only dance school in Brazil, with the owner trained by and with ABT membership.
I completed and received the ABT certificate with honors.

Everything was meticulously thought out and planned to add to my CV and make my dance school a success.

Another important step towards realizing my dream was to sign up for the independent international program at Steps on Broadway, which I still do today, with the thought of seeking ideas from all the important modalities in the dance world today. No place is better than the United States to study the different ways of expressing movements. I learned that we have 4 to 5 different types of tap dance, 4 to 6 types of jazz, and in the midst of this diversity, I found myself indulging in all of them.

I have to take 48 dance classes every month, which I distribute more or less in 3 classes of 1:30 a day, from Monday to Friday, so I’ve had extra time to enjoy everything this country has to offer. I took 2 extra courses, first Nutrition Coach and then Fitness Trainer.
A dancer can suffer from an eating disorder, leading to anorexia among other illnesses, as well as students who enter school precisely because they are overweight. Having a Nutrition Coach certificate helps me to better understand the human body and also its psyche.

The fitness trainer, on the other hand, helps us to work on body mass, which helps to prevent injuries, to understand and study the anatomy of the human body as it develops from a child to adulthood, including how to calculate heartbeats, respirations, etc. We are also required to undergo first aid training (CPR) at the Red Cross. Where I would be sure of being well prepared for my students.

Once again fate is interfering in my life.
A normal day of class at Steps on Broadway, I didn’t know it, but a man who was attending the class and at the end called me into a corner to talk, he was none other than Stephen DeAngelis, the casting director for Broadway shows, and he was very enthusiastic about me. He really wanted me to work with him, he wasn’t taking no for an answer, and that’s when I explained my situation in the country to him and he gave me his contact details saying: you’re going to fly high, as soon as you’re legalized I want you with me. That’s how I got his letter of recommendation for my E-B1 visa. (Green Card)

After that day, I really wanted to take part in Broadway.
I had already been shortlisted as a dancer for the Rockettes, but when I found out that they wouldn’t grant me a work visa, I decided not to continue, so that I could give the opportunity to another dancer.

In the two years I’ve been here in New York, I’ve reconnected with a childhood friend who now lives in Tampa. We’ve been friends since I was six years old and did ballet with the Thalhe group in Rio de Janeiro.

Among many memories and conversations, we realized that in dance schools in New York, Tampa, and around the world, many young people, adults and even the elderly, continued to take their routine classes even though they didn’t work out professionally. But we felt that something magical was missing from people’s lives, the Stage was missing. It’s hard to imagine studying dance for years and not being able to perform on stage. Having that unique moment where the lessons make all the hard work and dedication worthwhile. A place where you can be a star.
And this possibility doesn’t exist if the dancer hasn’t joined a company or theater or if they don’t have a good technique. In all ballet school classes, only 2% of students manage to become famous dancers or work in their field. And the 98% get frustrated and go in search of other professions.
It was then that my friend and future partner and I came up with the idea of holding the first Dance Festival in the USA for this audience.
A Festival that connects people with the stage.
That’s when the Thalhe Festival comes along, a name given to us by our childhood dance teacher whom we admire so much.

With Stephen DeAngelis and the Thalhe Festival, my dreams and energies are focused on this country, I want to be able to make a difference for these people and also be part of Broadway musicals.

With the network of contacts I’ve made in this country, I’ve already obtained the necessary sponsorship intentions to make the Festival happen next winter in Tampa and, consequently, in every state in the country.

The Festival will have an economic impact on the places where it will be held, such as the participants’ hometowns. Some of these are: tourism and accommodation, local businesses, venue rental, temporary employment, promotion of the city, sponsorship and partnerships, growth of the creative industry, taxes and fees.

Over the past two years in the United States, I applied for a green card through the EB-1 visa for extraordinary ability, and I was thrilled to be successfully approved by U.S. immigration. It was an immense joy to be recognized by a country known for having some of the strictest immigration laws in the world, and it meant a lot to me, especially because I did everything on my own. As soon as I received my work permit, I fulfilled my dream of opening my own dance company, RF Dance Company, which today, in NYC, continues to evolve and grow every day.

This is a bit of my professional story. I hope to inspire you to believe in your dreams and never give up, because anything is possible when you truly want it and work hard for it. There will be many obstacles and challenges along the way, and yes, it will be very difficult. But with calm, patience, a burning desire to achieve your goals, and above all, focus and discipline, you can achieve anything you want!

Sincerely,

Rayana Rodrigues da Fonte

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

For those just beginning their journey in the ballet world, my advice is rooted in embracing dedication and discipline. These foundational elements are crucial in navigating the challenges and joys of this demanding art form.

Firstly, consistent practice is key. Dedicate yourself daily to refining your technique and enhancing your skills. Progress in ballet is a result of persistent effort and unwavering commitment.

Secondly, listen attentively to your body. Ballet places significant physical demands, so prioritize proper warm-ups, cooldowns, and adequate rest. Taking care to prevent injuries is essential for long-term growth and success.

Seeking feedback is another invaluable aspect of growth. Embrace constructive criticism from teachers and peers alike, using it as a tool to refine your movements and deepen your understanding of the art. Never hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance—it’s a sign of dedication and a path to improvement.

Staying inspired is crucial. Immerse yourself in performances, learn about renowned dancers, and draw motivation from the rich history of ballet. Let this passion fuel your journey, igniting a desire for continual improvement and artistic exploration.

Setting clear goals, both short-term and long-term, will provide direction and motivation. Goals act as milestones, marking your progress and guiding your development as a dancer.

Mental fortitude is equally important. Ballet demands resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks. Cultivate a positive mindset, believing in your potential and embracing the journey with enthusiasm and perseverance.

Ultimately, remember to enjoy the process. Ballet is a profound and beautiful expression of artistry and movement. Let the joy of dance be your constant companion, inspiring you to strive for excellence while cherishing every moment on stage and in the studio.

By integrating these principles into your ballet practice, you’ll not only enhance your technical skills but also nurture a lifelong passion for dance, paving the way for a rewarding and fulfilling journey in the ballet world.

This comprehensive text provides advice and guidance tailored to those beginning their ballet journey, emphasizing dedication, discipline, and the joy of dance.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When I feel overwhelmed, I have a few go-to strategies that always help me find my balance.

First off, I take a moment to breathe deeply and center myself. It really clears my mind.

I love taking breaks to connect with nature and animals. Spending time outdoors is like therapy for me. I also draw strength from my spirituality, which is my rock—it keeps me going.

Staying connected with my family is crucial. Talking to them brings me comfort and perspective, especially during tough times.

Plus, I enjoy hitting the beach and traveling. These activities help me reset my energy and put things into perspective.

These moments are essential for my mental and emotional well-being, and they’re a key part of my daily balance.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rayanafontedancecompany.com
• Instagram: @rayanafonte @rfdancecompany @thalhefestival

Image Credits

Photo by: @caroline_alarcon_loor