Kanako Imayoshi

Kanako Imayoshi embarked on her ballet journey in Fukuoka, Japan, where she began her training. Her passion and talent led her to join the Reiko Matsuoka Ballet Institute, where she had opportunities to showcase her skills across Russia, China, and Japan. Recognizing her dedication and ability, Kanako was awarded a scholarship to pursue advanced training in Paris. She further developed her technique at the Beijing Ballet School, the Joffrey Ballet School, the City Ballet School in California, and under the guidance of Maria Vegh at the Maria Vegh Ballet Centre in Petaluma, California.

Kanako's dance career spans performances with notable ballet companies such as Peninsula Ballet Theatre, Idaho Ballet, Alaska’s North Star Ballet, Ballet Hawaii, Tau Dance Theatre, and the Reiko Matsuoka Ballet. In 2001, she joined Ballet Arizona, where she had the privilege of originating roles in Ib Andersen’s captivating ballets including Indigo Rhapsody, Elevations, Mosaik, Preludes and Fugues, Play, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (as Hippolyta). She showcased her talent in principal roles such as Myrtha in Giselle, the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy in Andersen’s The Nutcracker, and Mercedes, the Street Dancer, and the Queen of the Dryads in Don Quixote. Additionally, she portrayed Polyhymnia in Apollo.

Throughout her career, Kanako delighted audiences in leading roles such as Coquette in George Balanchine's La Sonnambula, demonstrating her versatility in Balanchine’s masterpieces including Divertimento No. 15, Serenade, Allegro Brillante, and the fiery Rubies from Jewels. She also brought her artistry and grace to Bournonville’s Konservatoriet. Her repertoire expanded further with soloist roles in beloved classics such as Swan Lake, Coppélia, Les Sylphides, Ib Andersen’s Romeo and Juliet, and Balanchine’s Theme and Variations and La Valse.

Following her retirement from Ballet Arizona, Kanako became a certified Gyrotonic instructor. She continues to channel her passion for ballet into teaching and private coaching, offering guidance and inspiration to students, professional dancers, and adult learners alike. Her impact extends beyond borders, as she frequently travels to Japan as a guest artist and dance coach, sharing her knowledge and expertise with a global community of dancers. Her career stands as a testament to her dedication, artistry, and commitment to nurturing the next generation of ballet artists.