As a young dancer, Monique studied at the Boston Ballet School where she quickly gained recognition for her musicality and fluidity. In 1980, she performed her first major role as Clara in Boston Ballet‘s Nutcracker. Soon thereafter, she attended the School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theatre’s summer scholarship programs.
At age 16, Monique joined ABT II, an apprentice company to American Ballet Theatre comprised of young dancers handpicked from around the world. She toured internationally as well as extensively throughout the United States performing a variety of principle, soloist, and corps de ballet roles. While at ABT II, Monique also had the opportunity to participate in American Ballet Theater‘s outreach program which introduced ballet to public school students across the country. After dancing with ABT II, Monique was asked to join Joffrey Ballet II and the Pantomime Theater at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Monique has since danced as a guest artist with Pennsylvania Ballet as well as with several regional companies. Throughout her career, Monique had the unique privilege of working with world renowned choreographers, directors, and teachers including Violette Verdy, Robert Joffrey, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Gelsey Kirkland. Monique retired from dancing professionally in 1998 to focus her attention on raising her family. For over 20 years, Monique has welcomed opportunities to share her love of ballet through teaching.
As a teacher, Monique is known for her nurturing, joyful attitude. She teaches ballet lessons in a healthy, age-appropriate manner that helps dancers develop proper technique, build confidence, and express artistry. Monique is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 5 of the ABT® National Training Curriculum.