‘The Messi of ballet’: Marianela Núñez, the Buenos Aires bombshell shaking up British dance
Marianela Núñez, a principal dancer with the Royal Ballet for nearly three decades, is celebrated as the 'Messi of ballet' in her native Argentina. Having moved to England from Buenos Aires at the age of 15, Núñez has captivated audiences with her exceptional footwork and emotional depth in performances. She has a unique connection to her heritage, even showcasing an Argentina-inspired leotard on social media and naming her cat after football legend Lionel Messi.
Núñez's career has been marked by her ability to tackle the most challenging roles, from the demanding fouettés in 'Swan Lake' to the delicate Rose Adagio in 'Sleeping Beauty.' Her performances are characterized by a romantic spirit and vivacity, particularly evident in her portrayals of iconic characters like Kitri in 'Don Quixote' and Odette in 'Swan Lake.' As she embarks on her own show, Núñez continues to inspire both dancers and enthusiasts with her passion for ballet and her dedication to the art form.
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Summarized by Ballet Trader from The Guardian — Dance.
Read the full article: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2026/jul/28/messi-ballet-marianela-nunez-buenos-aires-bombshell-argentina
Núñez's career has been marked by her ability to tackle the most challenging roles, from the demanding fouettés in 'Swan Lake' to the delicate Rose Adagio in 'Sleeping Beauty.' Her performances are characterized by a romantic spirit and vivacity, particularly evident in her portrayals of iconic characters like Kitri in 'Don Quixote' and Odette in 'Swan Lake.' As she embarks on her own show, Núñez continues to inspire both dancers and enthusiasts with her passion for ballet and her dedication to the art form.
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Summarized by Ballet Trader from The Guardian — Dance.
Read the full article: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2026/jul/28/messi-ballet-marianela-nunez-buenos-aires-bombshell-argentina