Hi. I’m MAR.
Marissa Rivera is a Latin dance instructor and choreographer based in Orange County. With over 20 years of dance experience, she has trained in various styles, including Contemporary, Jazz, Salsa, Bachata, and Zouk. Marissa obtained her Dance Teaching Certification from Mt. San Antonio College in 2016 and has achieved notable accomplishments in the dance world.
She holds the 1st place Semi-pro division title from the 2017 US Zouk Open and has won multiple 1st place titles and high ranking in official Zouk Jack and Jill competitions in both the United States and Brazil. Marissa was the first Brazilian Zouk Dancer to win the New Face Of GFranco sponsorship.
Marissa and her former dance partner Rinaldo Melo co-founded Zouk Vibes of Orange County. From 2017 to 2020, they led dance classes, organized monthly socials, and hosted weekend events, focused on growing the OC Brazilian Zouk Dance community. Marissa's cross-training in Salsa, Bachata, and Brazilian Zouk allowed her to connect these communities and establish Zouk rooms at popular Salsa and Bachata socials such as Cielo Social and Unified On2 in Orange County. This effort led to significant growth in the Brazilian Zouk dance community in the area.
Additionally, Marissa served as the organizer of the Zouk and Urban Kiz Experience at the Reno Latin Dance Fest from 2018 to 2020. Her involvement helped the festival attract and engage a larger audience, helping the festival reach a total of 3,000 attendees.
Marissa is currently a full-time dance teacher at The School Of Arts and Enterprise in Pomona, California. Alongside her teaching role, she is pursuing a certification in the Arts, Media, and Entertainment field. Marissa is also the director of Marés Dance Company, specializing in Brazilian Zouk fusion choreographies for adult dancers. Beyond her professional commitments, she finds joy in walks with her dog Frida, practicing yoga, meditation, and unwinding at home.
Throughout her career, Marissa has recognized the importance of continuous growth, diversity, and community. As a dance community leader, she takes her role seriously, aiming to create an inclusive and supportive environment for her students. Marissa encourages a mindset of lifelong learning, constantly seeking new teaching modalities, attending dance classes in various styles, and striving to develop herself as a leader and dance instructor. Her ultimate goal is to nurture strong, confident, and authentic dancers who will contribute to the growth and vibrancy of the dance community she deeply cares about.
