Clara began her dance instruction at age 7, through Wichita State University College of Fine Arts Institute. At 13, she began studying under Jill Landrith, while attending summer programs with American Ballet Theatre, Kansas City Ballet, and Lawrence Dance Intensive. In high school, Clara returned to WSU to expand her training, studying ballet under Denise Celestine, and modern under Regina Klenjoski and Cheyla Clawson Chandler. At this time, she performed several seasons with Ballet Wichita, including performances of The Nutcracker, the Wizard of Oz, and The Little Mermaid, dancing in soloist and demi-soloist roles. In 2018, Clara moved to Kansas City to train as a student with Kansas City Ballet School. She was delighted to perform with the company for three productions, and finished out the year 2020 as a virtual graduate. She then returned to study under Landrith at Metropolitan Ballet Wichita, as a member of the company for the 2021/2022 season.

Some of Clara’s favorite roles include dancing as Glenda in the Wizard of Oz, lead gypsy in Wichita Grand Opera’s La Traviata, as well as Odette’s double in Devon Carney’s Swan

Lake.

 

She is grateful for the exposure each teacher and performance has brought her, and thankful for God’s continual provision and help. Clara is thrilled to be joining Magnum Opus for her third season!