Local girl makes the big stage in Las Vegas

LOCAL talent Marni McGrath began dancing in Wonthaggi at Studio Phoenix at seven years old and today, is living her dream as a dancer in Cirque Du Soleil’s brand-new show on the Las Vegas strip - ‘Mad Apple’ inspired by New York City.

Currently living in Las Vegas, Marni began her contract with Cirque Du Soleil in March 2022 and will be performing in ‘Mad Apple’ until her final performance on May 26, 2023 – where she will then return to live in New York City.

“I received a call that I got the job at the end of January 2022. I had already spent 10 months living in New York and within a month I was packing two suitcases and moving to Las Vegas. I had a two-month rehearsal period and a month of technical rehearsals before we opened the show on May 26, 2022,” said Marni. 

Working in the entertainment industry as a dancer is not light work, there have been moments over the years where Marni definitely felt like giving up, but she believed inside herself that her passion and commitment to her craft was too strong. 

“To any younger performers looking to pursue a career in dance, I would say truthfully there will always be hard days, when your body is in pain and your mind full of doubt. They’re the moments you must endure and push through because the benefits, rewards and opportunities on the other side are limitless,” said Marni. 

“My passion and commitment to dance comes from staying true to myself. Dance first and foremost keeps me grounded and keeps me connected to who I am, and I have educated myself on all dance styles, history of dance and foundation styles and with that brings the confidence and knowledge that I can take into the working world.” 

Marni still trains whilst she’s performing, she’s currently involved in 10 shows, five days a week, she aim’s to do yoga five days a week and will either spend time doing improvisation or dance drills, or learning other choreography. 

“It’s important to keep training to stay inspired, stay connected with myself and for future jobs.” 

“My first opportunity to dance overseas is when I worked with Cosentino - the Grand Illusionist. I was fortunate enough to perform my first international gig with him at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and at The Wynn in Macau.” 

As a child Marni’s favourite style of dance was tap. Ironically enough, Jane Hanley choreographed a duo tap routine to ‘New York, New York’ while she was dancing at Studio Phoenix, Jane has been one of Marni’s biggest believers since day one. 

“Fast forward roughly 10 years and I made the move to live in New York City, a dream of mine for years and I am now so fulfilled and grateful to call that city home. Life really is a full circle.” 

Marni returned to Wonthaggi holding a workshop for Studio Phoenix on Thursday, February 9 and her biggest aim was to create a safe, supportive, and inspiring space.