I’m Mariana Souza — a dancer, actress, singer, tap dancer, choreographer, and director from Rio de Janeiro, based in Berlin. My artistic journey began early in Brazil, where I fell in love with movement, music, and storytelling — a passion that shaped every step of my career.

My Path in Art

I started training intensively in dance, theater, and singing while still very young. After earning my music degree from the Brazilian Conservatory of Music, I deepened my work in ballet, jazz, tap, and contemporary dance at Ballet Simone Falcão and the Centro de Movimento Deborah Colker — a place that later invited me to return as a teacher.

Early Steps in Brazil

Before moving abroad, I worked as a dancer, teacher, and choreographer in contemporary, jazz, and modern dance companies. I also took part in TV Globo productions, including the soap opera Páginas da Vida, as well as advertising campaigns and large-scale events. These experiences, along with projects with groups like Cia de Dança Dimensões, Talmah Cia de Dança, and Ballet Garden Hall, gave me a strong foundation on stage — and a glimpse of the exciting worlds waiting beyond Brazil.

Dancing Around the World

One of the biggest turning points in my career came when I joined the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in the United States — an incredible opportunity that opened the door to an international career. In 2007, I moved to Germany to join The Lion King (Der König der Löwen) in Hamburg, performing as swing and cover for Sarabi for six years. Later, I continued performing in Austria and took part in productions like Mary Poppins in Vienna and Ragtime in Graz. Playing in West Side Story at the Salzburg Festival was another unforgettable moment — performing on one of Europe’s most renowned stages.

Life on Stage in Europe

Since settling in Germany, I’ve built a deep relationship with the musical and opera scene here. At Komische Oper Berlin, I’ve performed in shows like Chicago, Die lustige Witwe, Candide, Clivia, Kiss Me, Kate, and La Cage aux Folles. I’ve also worked with the Berliner Ensemble, Philharmonie Luxembourg, and Mainfranken Theater Würzburg — where I choreographed Märchen im Grand Hotel, later awarded the BR-Klassik “Operetten-Frosch” prize — and continue to collaborate on productions across Europe.

Tap Dancing — My Rhythm and My Roots

Tap dance has always been part of who I am. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of learning from incredible artists like Steven Harper, Brenda Bufalino, Derick Grant, Chloe Arnold, Michelle Dorrance, Sarah Reich, and many others who continue to inspire my journey. Tap connects everything I love most — rhythm, creativity, and expression.

Brasil Tap Berlin

In 2023, together with my partner Fernando Flesch, I co-founded Brasil Tap Berlin — a festival born from the dream of bringing the heart and rhythm of Brazilian tap to Berlin. In just a few years, it has become a beautiful space of exchange and belonging, where artists and audiences meet to celebrate dance, culture, and community. Each edition feels like a reunion — full of energy, improvisation, and Brazilian soul.