Today we’d like to introduce you to Angel Mammoliti.
Angel, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I think my story truly started when I realized dance wasn’t’ just a really rigorous hobby, but more of means to understand myself and the world around me through physical art and communication. I furthered my relationship with dance in a collegiate setting where I dual majored in dance and psychology at the University at Buffalo (my home town). I felt that the knowledge of mental behavior could only elevate my understanding of the art form.
From there, I found myself establishing my career in many parts in and out of the country. I studied in Toronto, Ontario post-graduation accumulating a lot of knowledge on what it meant to establish a strong relationship with floor work and working with a partner under the direction of Eryn Waltman and Contour Dance. My next move after that was to the other side of the country to Scottsdale, Arizona where I expanded my training and understanding of all things ballet working with Master Ballet Academy and the Phoenix Ballet under the direction of Slavomir Wozniak. These experiences really provided the foundation of the many possibilities and opportunities that exist all across the nation and out when it comes to dance as a profession.
My next move is where I ended up finding my home, Los Angeles. I had moved there to work with the incomparable Talia Favia and her company The Difference Between for a couple of months. It then quickly turned into a more permanent stay. My eyes, heart, and spirit were instantly opened wide to the realization of the amount of opportunity that existed in that magical city.
A couple of months later, I joined Entity Contemporary Dance co-directed by Marissa Osato and Will Johnston. It was with them that I found a true home from family, full length shows, international teaching opportunity to conceptualizing company photoshoots. I signed with the Clear Talent Group after an open call audition and was thrilled to start building a commercial career in addition to my more concert based one at the time. I quickly learned that they can become more intertwined than I had thought, which was amazing. As time has progressed, many auditions and jobs later, I find myself fulfilled, limitless, and extremely hungry for more. I am currently on staff with Hollywood Vibe Dance Convention owned by Christopher and Anne Smith. One of the most beautiful platforms in the game to work with and educate young dancers around the country. I cannot speak higher of the staff they have curated. These people love their job and inspire me daily. Being able to maintain a commercial, concert, and teaching career is one of my favorite things about my current state as a dancer/educator. I’m writing this as I sit on a plane to Tokyo to perform for something extremely exciting. I am so lucky.
Has it been a smooth road?
My advice to young women starting their journey is to be honest with yourself. Out of every person on this planet, you know the most about yourself, what you want, and what you’re capable of. Do not let anyone try and convince you differently. I have run into scenarios where I later found myself not trusting my initial instinct or becoming lost to the trends around me. It was through those times that I realized I was the only person that was going to truly do the right thing for myself and I swear by that decision. Look within.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I’d like to say my versatility sets me apart from others. I pride myself on being able to transform the character, no matter the dramatics, have proficiency in many styles from commercial hip hop to contortion to classical ballet and everywhere in between, and most importantly having knowledge in all these settings. I’m proud of the capabilities of my brain and body and constantly forward to their infinite growth.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
I was extremely lucky in finding guidance for my career and person. I’d like to say that the people who provide the most insight and inspiration for me were given/founded as opposed to seeking.
Although, I know it doesn’t always work out that way. I think my networking advice would be to pinpoint what you’re interested in. Where do you want to go and who could take you there? Most importantly, why do you want to do it? Do your best to surround yourself with those answers and be forward with your why. I always like to say “no one is a mind reader. They’re not going to know unless you tell them.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @angelmammoliti
Image Credit:
Alex Cole, Lee Gumbs, Valerie Noel, Vince Horiuchi
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
