Daily Inspiration: Meet Alissa Nigro

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alissa Nigro.

Hi Alissa, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
It was during my third semester of nursing school that I realized I was on the wrong path. I had been dancing since the age of three, so stepping away from it in college left a void I was really struggling to ignore. I called my mom from my dorm room one night and told her, “I don’t think I want to be a nurse—I miss dance.” She immediately looked up programs near my hometown, Buffalo, NY, and it turned out The University at Buffalo was holding auditions for their dance program that same week. I auditioned, got accepted, and transferred the following semester to pursue a dual degree in Dance and Business Administration.

I was fully immersed in all things dance- training, performing, practicing choreography of my own- I even discovered a passion for teaching. I would spend every summer exploring classes in other cities like Pittsburgh, New York, Toronto, and eventually Los Angeles. LA stood out—it had an energy I hadn’t felt anywhere else. The summer before my senior year, I needed internship credit and saw it as the perfect opportunity to return. I landed a marketing internship with The Movement Talent Agency in North Hollywood, where I got firsthand experience on how to navigate the business side of dance—how agencies work, what they expect from dancers, how castings operate. On my off time, I took every class I could and I was completely sold. A city filled with inspiration, likeminded artists, and endless opportunities. LA felt like home.

After graduation, I officially made the move—and I’ve been here ever since.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
In any field—especially in dance—there’s no single path to success. It can be tough when you see your peers hitting milestones, booking dream jobs, and it feels like you’re still figuring it out. But I’ve learned that mental resilience is everything. You have to be able to ride out both the highs and the lows, not compare your journey to others, and give yourself grace when things don’t go “according to plan.”

What’s helped me most is committing to staying grounded and focused on my own growth. When you show up with intention, stay true to who you are, and trust the process, things have a way of falling into place.

One of my favorite jobs actually came from a day when I wasn’t feeling 100%, but I pushed myself to show up for class anyway. That experience reminded me that sometimes the best opportunities come when you least expect them—and that consistency, even on the hard days, really does matter. It’s so cliche but you have to trust in timing. What’s meant for you won’t pass you by—and it often finds you when you’re simply doing the work and showing up for yourself.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a professional dancer, choreographer, and educator represented by Go 2 Talent Agency. What sets me apart is my versatility—not only in the styles I train and perform in, but also in the range of roles I’ve taken on throughout my career. I wear many hats, and I’m proud of that.

I’m proficient in a wide variety of styles, from jazz and ballet to heels and commercial hip hop, and many others that bridge the gap. I’ve performed in live stage shows, music videos, and commercials. I have had the opportunity to assist choreographers, judge national dance competitions, and teach at studios across the country. Beyond performing, I’ve also worked on the administrative side of the industry—at studios like TMilly and Millennium Dance Complex, and with Hollywood Vibe, one of the leading national dance competitions owned by Christopher and Anne Smith.

That well-rounded experience—both in front of the camera and behind the scenes—has shaped my perspective, strengthened my work ethic, and given me a deep appreciation for all aspects of this industry.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My parents first and foremost. Their support has meant everything—from driving me to countless rehearsals and competitions growing up, to encouraging my decision to shift careers and follow my passion, to traveling across the country so I could train with the best. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without their constant love and support.

My circle in LA deserves the world. I’m incredibly grateful for the friends who keep me grounded, inspire me with their own creative pursuits, and are always down to collaborate and create purely out of passion. We all left behind our loved ones and comfort zones to chase something bigger, and that shared drive has created a truly special community. It’s rare to find people who not only understand the hustle, but also lift you up through it—and I never take that for granted.

The faculty and staff at the studios I’ve trained at in LA—I would not have been able to grow as an artist out here if it weren’t for the welcoming environments they’ve cultivated to keep me consistent. I’ve learned so much through mentorships with renowned artists such as Cat Rendic, Brian and Scott Nicholson, Galen Hooks, Amy Allen, Briony Albert, and Cedric Botelho. Cedric has not only been a mentor and friend, but has trusted me with professional opportunities that have been instrumental to my growth both artistically and professionally. I’m so grateful.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alissa_nigro/

Image Credits
Wes Klain
Claudio Robles
Alissa Roseborough
Mirror LA