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Dance idols: every dancer has heroes: 12 star performers talk about theirs.

Article Excerpt
Everyone has an idol, a mentor, a personal hero--someone whose influence inspires life-changing decisions. For dancers, those pivotal moments might come from seeing a breathtaking performance, watching the evolving artistry of a colleague, or opening their minds to the revelations offered by a coach, choreographer, or director. DANCE MAGAZINE contributing editor Cheryl Ossola asked 12 dancers--themselves likely put on a pedestal by admiring fans and colleagues--these questions: WHOSE DANCING DO YOU MOST ADMIRE? WHOSE ARTISTRY HAS INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST? Here, in their own words, they talk about their personal heroes.

Angel Corella

PRINCIPAL DANCER

AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE

One of the most influential dancers in my career has been Baryshnikov. The first time I saw him was in The Turning Point; I was probably 9 or 10, one year into my training. He was a very masculine dancer, very powerful technically, who made dance look beautiful, and he was a very strong personality onstage.

Paloma Herrera

PRINCIPAL DANCER

AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE

Misha [Baryshnikov] has been my big inspiration--he was why I joined ABT. I used to watch him on videos at home in Buenos Aires. He's always been such a presence. In the Don Q video, his dancing is so easy, so natural--it's like he's making it up. You don't see the effort. With Twyla Tharp he was funny and serious at the same time.

I have always admired Sylvie Guillem and Alessandra Ferri. They have such an incredible stage presence--it's not just the technique, it's their style and work ethic. When I got to work with them I saw what incredible dancers and artists they are. For them it's all about...

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