The Journey from Georgia to New York City
Cassandra Trenary, a Principal Dancer with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), is renowned for an artistic style that emphasizes humanity and clarity of movement. Her journey began in Lawrenceville, Georgia, where she explored various styles of dance under the guidance of teachers like Phillis Allen and Jeanne Deitrich. These mentors were instrumental in encouraging Cassandra to look beyond the local scene and audition for the ABT’s summer intensive programs.
After several years of attending summer intensives in Alabama and New York, Trenary joined the JKO School in 2009. Her training under Franco Devita and Raymond Lukens focused on technical purity, stripping away affectations to focus on the refined footwork and alignment that defines classical ballet. A pivotal moment occurred when she watched a video of Alessandra Ferri in Romeo and Juliet; the emotional depth and raw vulnerability of Ferri’s performance showed her that ballet was not just about technical perfection, but about «life unfolding on stage.» This realization shifted her focus from performing steps to telling stories.
The Unexpected Leap to the Principal Rank
Cassandra’s transition into the main company was a «whirlwind.» After a brief apprenticeship with the Studio Company (ABT II) in Europe, she returned to New York only to be offered an apprenticeship with the main company on the spot because they needed a dancer of her specific height for the season. In 2011, she officially joined the main company, a dream come true that she describes as both terrifying and exciting.
One of the most significant influences on her development has been choreographer Alexei Ratmansky. He pushed her to find intricate storytelling within difficult ballets, such as his reconstruction of The Sleeping Beauty. Ratmansky taught her to bring profound humanity to her movement without ever sacrificing the technical standards of classical dance. This collaboration helped her bridge the gap between being a technical dancer and becoming a true artist, leading to her eventual promotion to Principal Dancer.
Redefining Identity during the Pandemic
The shutdown of the performing arts during the COVID-19 pandemic became the most transformative period of her career. Without a job, a schedule, or a structure holding her accountable, Cassandra had to rediscover why she danced. This period of isolation was scary but ultimately healing, bringing her back to the pure joy of movement. She realized that she dances because it is what her body, heart, and mind desire, regardless of the institution around her.
This period led to a deep sense of self-acceptance and a newfound confidence in her natural quality of work. «I discovered I have a voice that I care deeply about, and that it is not something to be ashamed of,» she notes. Today, she approaches her training with a healthier focus on mental health and listening to her body’s limitations. She has learned the value of rest and the importance of being kind to oneself in a demanding industry.
Future Aspirations: Repertoire and Beyond
Looking forward, Cassandra dreams of performing highly dramatic roles like MacMillan’s Manon and Petit’s Carmen. She is also interested in exploring acting opportunities outside of the dance space, a desire that was fueled by a project she worked on during the pandemic. Whether on stage or on screen, Cassandra Trenary remains committed to a portray reality from a fresh and human perspective, ensuring that her art continues to resonate with audiences on a deep, emotional level.
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Explore the scholarship programs of YoungArts, which supported Cassandra’s journey.
