Fabiana Grimaldi Fabiana Grimaldi is a passionate dancer, choreographer and teacher, specialising in Afro-Brazilian and Brazil’s folkloric dance. Residing in Melbourne, Fabiana explores the personal, social and cultural benefits of dance, sharing her creativity and art-form across Melbourne’s diverse communities.

In 3 words what does ballet mean to you?

Beauty, magic, class.

What would be your favourite ballet to dance?

La Bayadere

Do you believe that ballet is a readily accessible art-form?

Ballet is an expensive art form, in my life experience, having been taught ballet here and overseas. It is not available for all, although many major companies have invested funds more and more towards ballet and other artistic educational projects.

What do you believe is a typical misconception about ballet that you would like to set straight?

Ballet training damages a body in development, causing injuries. Ballet taught correctly and with the right foundation, actually helps growth, muscle strength and physical development.

What are you reading right now?

Anti-coach-The genesis of chaos.

One thing that most people don’t know about you?

I worked as a PA and interpreter for a Hollywood actor (Stephen Baldwyn) in a film set overseas.

Why is the work BWB do so important?

I believe that ballet, art, music and dance education have the power to change a child’s life. Empowering, offering inspiration and hope, for many children maybe is a new found passion. I believe in art as powerful medium for social change and personal development.

Favourite ballet to watch?

My all-time favourite. Giselle.

If you could go back to a point in time in your life, what advice would you give yourself?

Save money from your first pay check!!

You have been given an elephant! You cannot sell it or give it away, what do you do?

I would ornament my living room. I love elephants!! =)