Rising Star: Emma Laguna Takes on the Lead in “The Nutcracker”
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Debut Unlike Any Other
“In terms of feelings, the debut is definitely different from the usual one,” Emma acknowledged. “The biggest difference is that this will be my first leading role. I’ve also played quite big roles before, for example I played Lucy in the play ‘Dracula’, but it’s not quite the same.With the lead role comes a completely different sense of responsibility, as well as excitement. It is indeed clear that every ballet dancer trains, wants to grow and achieve new goals, but when it actually happens, there is a little excitement as you want to show yourself at your best.”### A Rising Star Takes the Stage
**Interviewer:** Emma, congratulations on landing the coveted role of Maria in “The Nutcracker”! This is a major milestone for any ballerina.How does it feel to be stepping into this lead role?
**Emma Laguna:** Thank you! It’s incredibly exciting, definitely the biggest role I’ve tackled so far. There’s a certain weight to it, a sense of responsibility that comes with leading the entire story.
**Interviewer:** your path to this point has been impressive, from the Liepaja ballet and Dance studio to the prestigious Riga Ballet School and now the Latvian National Opera and Ballet. Was ballet always your dream?
**Emma Laguna:** Not necessarily from the start. I discovered my passion for dance gradually. it felt natural, like something I was meant to do.
**Interviewer:** You’ve played a variety of roles in “The Nutcracker” before. How has this experience prepared you for portraying Maria?
**Emma Laguna:** Each role, even the smaller ones, has taught me valuable lessons about stage presence, character advancement, and technical skill. Understanding the ballet from different perspectives has been incredibly helpful.
**Interviewer:** Right before opening night, there was a fire that damaged part of the set. How did that affect the cast and crew?
**emma Laguna:** It was a stressful situation, without a doubt. But everyone rallied together, and the repairs were done swiftly. We’re so grateful that the show could go on.
**Interviewer:** What do you hope audiences will take away from your performance as Maria?
**Emma Laguna:** I want them to feel the magic of “The Nutcracker,” to be transported to a world of wonder and enchantment. And hopefully, they’ll see the dedication and passion that we’ve poured into bringing this story to life.
**Interviewer:** for aspiring young dancers, what advice would you give them as they embark on their own journeys?
**Emma Laguna:** Never stop learning, never stop pushing yourself, and always believe in your dreams. With hard work and dedication, anything is absolutely possible.
## From Mice to Maria: A Rising Star Takes on “The Nutcracker”
**archyde**: Welcome, Emma! Congratulations on landing the lead role of Maria in “The Nutcracker”! This must be a truly exciting moment in yoru career.
**Emma Laguna**: Thank you so much! It still feels surreal. It’s a dream come true, and I am beyond excited to share the stage with such a talented cast.
**Archyde**: You’ve had quite a journey, starting at the Liepaja ballet and dance studio and later studying at the prestigious Riga Ballet School. What inspired you to pursue ballet? Was it always your passion?
**Emma Laguna**: To be honest, ballet wasn’t something I always dreamt of. it unfolded organically. I started dancing as a hobby, and I fell in love with the discipline, the gracefulness, and the storytelling aspect of it.
**Archyde**: You’ve portrayed various roles in “The Nutcracker” before, from a mischievous mouse to a snowflake and even an Oriental dancer. How has that experience prepared you for this lead role?
**Emma Laguna**: Each role I’ve played has been a valuable stepping stone. They allowed me to explore different aspects of the choreography, understand the nuances of character portrayals, and learn from seasoned dancers. It’s been an amazing learning curve.
**Archyde**: We heard about the unfortunate fire incident that damaged part of the set, including the iconic flying sleigh. How did the team handle this situation, and how are the preparations proceeding now?
**Emma Laguna**: It was a challenging moment for everyone involved. We were all deeply concerned, but the response was incredible.the team worked tirelessly to repair the set, and thanks to their dedication, the magic of “The Nutcracker” will still be showcased.
**Archyde**: As opening night approaches, are there any nerves or anticipations setting in? How are you preparing mentally and physically for this big debut?
**Emma Laguna**: Definitely! The weight of the lead role is starting to sink in. There’s a mix of excitement, responsibility, and a touch of anxiety.I’m focusing on refining my technique, perfecting the choreography, and immersing myself in Maria’s character. The support from my fellow dancers and the creative team is invaluable.
**Archyde**: What are you hoping audiences will take away from your performance as Maria?
**Emma Laguna**: I want them to be transported to a world of magic and wonder. “The Nutcracker” is a timeless story about dreams, love, and the spirit of Christmas. I hope our performance brings joy, evokes emotions, and leaves a lasting impression on their hearts.
**Archyde**: Well, we’re incredibly excited to see your performance! Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Emma.
**Emma Laguna**: thank you for having me.