Dancer Spotlight: Sophia Moritz

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 dancing for as long as I can remember! Technically, I began around the age of four—it has always been a fundamental part of my life. My ballet journey truly began when I trained at Pasadena Civic Ballet (PCB) under the guidance of extraordinary teachers who instilled in me not only a strong technical foundation but also a deep appreciation for the artistry of the form.

What inspired me to pursue ballet is the unique blend of physicality and expression it offers. Ballet is both a rigorous athletic discipline and a profound art form. It’s the storytelling, the emotional depth, and the ability to connect with an audience through movement that made me fall in love with it. My time at PCB laid the groundwork for that love, teaching me not only the technical aspects of dance but also the importance of dedication, community, and passion in pursuing something meaningful.

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

Portraying Jo March through dance comes with unique but exciting challenges! Jo is a deeply multi-faceted character with a vibrant personality and a journey that demands both emotional and physical versatility.

For me, one of the biggest challenges is balancing her strength and vulnerability. Jo is fiercely independent, ambitious, and headstrong, but she also has moments of doubt and emotional sensitivity—particularly when navigating her relationships and aspirations. Capturing these different sides of her story is a rewarding challenge as an artist. This dichotomy is what makes Jo so real and relatable, and I strive to express that duality through my movement quality. The brilliance of Emma’s choreography definitely helps bring that balance to life.

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

This is so hard to answer because I truly love almost every scene I get to dance in as Jo!

One special moment I always enjoy is the scene where Jo first meets Laurie. It’s lively, full of curiosity and energy, perfectly mirroring their instant connection. The choreography is playful and spirited, with fast-paced, dynamic movements that capture Jo’s boldness and Laurie’s charm. There’s a sense of excitement in their interaction that sets the tone for their friendship.

Another scene that’s particularly special to me, though very emotionally challenging, is the final duet between Beth and Jo. The choreography speaks volumes without words—the movements are delicate, filled with aching gentleness that reflects the profound bond between the sisters. In my last performance, I got to dance this duet with my actual sister, Kat. It was such a meaningful and unforgettable experience.

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

Telling a story through dance is about blending movement, emotion, and intention to create a narrative that truly resonates with the audience.

My approach begins with deeply understanding the character—what drives them, their relationships, and how they evolve throughout the story. From there, I focus on the nuances: my connection to the music, the other characters, and the subtle physical details that communicate emotion. My goal is to bring the audience into the character’s world by being fully present and intentional in every movement.

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

Big time, yes!! My family and friends always joke with me about it. I’ve found so many similarities between Jo and myself, which makes portraying her an incredibly rewarding experience.

Her determination to carve her own path—even when it defies expectations—resonates deeply with me. I also connect with Jo’s love for her family and her complex relationships with those closest to her. Her bond with her sisters, especially the protective and nurturing role she takes on, mirrors the relationships I value in my own life. This emotional depth gives her story so much meaning and makes performing her journey feel very personal.

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

Through my performance as Jo March, I hope to convey a message of resilience, individuality, and the power of following your passions.

Jo’s journey is about embracing who you are, even when that means challenging tradition or facing uncertainty. I want the audience to feel her determination and courage—and to be inspired to pursue their own dreams with that same fearless spirit.

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

Collaboration with the choreographer and fellow dancers is essential to bringing Little Women to life. With Emma, I focus on understanding her vision for the story and how Jo fits within the larger emotional landscape. We work closely to refine movements so they not only express Jo’s personality but also align with the ballet’s overall tone and flow.

Rehearsing with the cast is equally important because Little Women is so deeply rooted in relationships. Whether it’s sharing playful moments with the sisters, performing emotional duets like those with Beth, or building tension in group scenes, we rely on one another to communicate the dynamics that drive the story. Attention to timing, expression, and connection ensures our performances feel authentic and heartfelt.

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

I hope the audience leaves Little Women feeling inspired by its messages of love, resilience, and staying true to oneself. Jo’s journey is a reminder that it’s okay to dream big and challenge norms, even when the path isn’t easy.

I also hope they feel the depth of the relationships within the story—especially the unbreakable bond between the March sisters. The ballet captures both the joy and heartbreak of family life, and I want those emotions to resonate, reminding everyone of the importance of connection and support in their own lives.

My personal goal is for the audience to walk away with a sense of hope and reflection. Life is filled with challenges and change, but like Jo, we can find strength in our relationships, our dreams, and our determination to move forward. If audiences leave feeling both moved and inspired, then we’ve accomplished something truly special.