Mariana Goncalves
Mariana Gonçalves is a Brazilian professional ballet artist and educator from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with an extensive career spanning classical ballet, contemporary work, teaching, and artistic mentorship. Her training includes the Maria Olenewa School of Dance, BalletARJ Escola de Dança, American Academy of Ballet and Alvin Ailey School in New York, as well as the Dance Theatre of Harlem Trainee Program and Ballet Magnificat Summer Dance Intensive. She has trained in Cuban, Vaganova, and Royal Academy of Dance methodologies and currently specialises in the Vaganova method.
Mariana has competed internationally, placing 1st in the Ensemble category at Youth America Grand Prix (New York) and 3rd in Repertoire Variation at Danzamerica, Argentina. She was also a finalist at the World Ballet Competition in Orlando and participated in the Prix de Lausanne and VKIBC Selection in New York. Her professional career includes Cia Jovem BalletARJ, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Companhia Brasileira de Ballet, Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro, Joburg Ballet, Ballet Magnificat Brazil, and Cia Barak. She has also performed as a guest artist at the Joinville Dance Festival with Companhia Brasileira de Ballet and worked with renowned choreographers and artists from Brazil, South Africa, Europe, and the United States.
Within WGRUV, Mariana contributes as an artist and educator, bringing extensive international experience in performance, teaching, choreography, and mentorship.
“Being part of WGRUV represents an incredible new beginning and an opportunity to open new horizons in my career, allowing me to explore and discover contemporary movement more deeply. I love the purpose that this company carries, and it inspires me to continue being who Jesus called me to be, even in the professional world. Today, dance means so much more to me than technique. It is a way to overflow with gratitude for everything God has poured into my life—to bring transformation through movement that carries God’s presence and to have the privilege of performing intentional ballets with stories that can truly change lives.”
“Dance has been one of the greatest joys of my life. It has shaped and challenged me, growing me into confidence and authenticity. For me, dance is more than performance—it is an act of worship. Through movement, I express gratitude, faith, and love, and my desire is to honour God while creating work that uplifts and impacts others. Being part of WGRUV is a true blessing—a space that fosters growth, excellence, and meaningful, soulful artistry.”