Marissa grew up in Tracy, California, and began dancing at the age of nine at Sondance Christian Dance School. There she trained in the Cecchetti Method of classical ballet along with various other styles of dance. She quickly fell in love with the art form and the freedom of expression it opened up for her. As she grew as a dancer, her heart was opened to how dance could be used to worship God and lead others to know Him. To Marissa, dance is another form of prayer. She loves how movement and music bring lyrics to life to tell a story, and the story she loves most to share is the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Marissa first joined Paradosi Ballet Company as a Trainee during the 2018 to 2020 seasons. In 2020, during the pandemic, she returned to California to be with her family and danced with Anastasis Christian Ballet. While away from Washington, Marissa felt God tugging on her heart to return to the Pacific Northwest, and in 2024 an opportunity opened for her to rejoin Paradosi Ballet Company.

Marissa is excited to be back with Paradosi and looks forward to the opportunities ahead as she seeks to further God’s Kingdom through ministry and dance.