Marissa grew up in the Central Valley of California, in the town of Tracy. She started dancing at age nine, at Sondance Christian Dance School. While there, she received training in The Cecchetti Method of classical ballet as well as various other styles of dance. She soon fell in love with the art form of dance and the freedom of expression it opened up for her. As she continued to grow as a dancer her heart was opened to seeing how dance could be used to worship God and lead others to know Him.   To Marissa dance is another form of prayer.  She loves the way that dance and music bring the lyrics to life to tell a story and the greatest story that she loves to share is the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Marissa joined Paradosi Ballet Company as a trainee during the 2018-2020 seasons.  In 2020 during the pandemic Marissa moved back to California to be with her family and joined Anastasis Christian Ballet.  While away from Washington, Marissa felt God tugging at her heart to return to the Pacific Northwest and in 2024 an opportunity opened for her to return to Paradosi Ballet Company. 

Marissa is excited to be rejoining Paradosi and for the new opportunities that lie ahead, where she hopes to further Gods kingdom here on the earth through ministry and dance!