Cassandra Lea-Saxton
Q&A with Corps Member Melisa Guilliams
What is one role that holds special significance for you?
Last season, I had the incredible opportunity to perform David Parsons’s Caught. It was my first featured role, so it was exciting to navigate such a daunting task. It gave me the confidence to take on roles in the future!
If you were not a dancer, is there an alternate career path you would have chosen?
When I was 14, I took a short break from dancing and ran track and field. At that time, I saw myself possibly carrying on with track and studying Sports Medicine in college.
Do you have talents or passions outside of dance?
I am certified as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, so I love to exercise and help others get moving! I also grew up playing piano, so I enjoy occasionally playing in my free time.
What inspires you outside of the studio?
I grew up in a very musical family, so naturally music has always inspired me. I’m also inspired by my close friends in other dance companies- particularly when sharing our experiences over the phone.
What significance does being part of PNB during the 50th Anniversary have to you?
I had the pleasure of growing up in Seattle, so I remember coming to watch dancers at PNB for its 40th anniversary season. It feels so surreal to now dance for this company alongside dancers I looked up to ten years ago.
