What inspired you to create the Marcella Hymowitz Creative Fellowship at Youth America Grand Prix, and what impact do you hope it will have for young choreographers?
I wanted to give dancers and choreographers who don’t have access to funding the opportunity to create new works that speak to a younger generation. My hope is that by supporting fresh voices and contemporary ideas, we can bring new audiences into the theater—people who might fall in love with dance for the first time. If we want the art form to thrive, we need to create ballets and performances that truly capture the imagination and attention of the next generation.
How has your background as a professional dancer shaped the way you support and give back to the arts now?
My background as a professional dancer has given me a real understanding of how much dedication, sacrifice, and resilience it takes to make it in the arts. I was lucky—my parents supported my training from a young age—but not everyone has that opportunity. That’s why I’m passionate about organizations like Youth America Grand Prix, which levels the playing field by providing scholarships and giving talented young dancers exposure to major companies they might never otherwise reach.
Early in my own career, I was that dancer juggling multiple jobs just to keep my dream alive. Supporting the arts now feels like a way to make that journey a little easier for the next generation—whether that means more access, better funding, or simply ensuring that performers are paid what they deserve.
You’re involved in both the arts and health causes. How do you see those worlds connecting in your work?
All the causes I support are deeply personal to me and connected by a shared belief in nurturing both human potential and healing. My work with Memorial Sloan Kettering stems from a profound respect for the doctors, researchers, and patients who inspire hope every day. Being chair of the Associates of the Society for MSK has shown me how far compassion and innovation can go when they work hand in hand.
On the other side of my world, dance has always been a form of expression and connection for me. Creating a choreographers fellowship felt like a way to give back to the art form that shaped my life. I wanted to make sure the next generation of voices in dance—especially those who might not have easy access to funding or platforms—have the chance to create and share new work.
Whether it’s supporting groundbreaking cancer research or helping artists find their stage, for me it all comes down to giving people strength—emotionally, physically, and creatively.
Looking ahead, what project are you most excited about next?
My next project—The Pearl—is what I’m most excited about. It’s truly a dream come true. Ever since I was a little girl, I imagined having my own studio, but The Pearl is so much more than that. It’s a creative home for choreographers to grow and develop new work, a place where young girls can discover the joy of dance and cheer, and where teens can build strength and confidence through fitness.
We’ll also offer adult dance and fitness classes designed for people who’ve always wanted to take class but might feel intimidated walking into a big studio. Beyond movement, The Pearl will host workshops centered on personal development, self-care, and overall well-being—with offerings in beauty, mindfulness, and digital wellness.
The goal is to create a truly holistic space that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit—a safe, inspiring environment where people of all ages can explore creativity, build confidence, and prioritize their well-being.
For more information, visit thepearlnyc.com or follow on Instagram @thepearlnyc.
