We rarely get to shine a spotlight on the dads of the dance industry, who skillfully balance the demands of a rigorous career with their devotion to family life. Dance Informa sat down with Victor Zarallo to explore the unique experience of fatherhood in the world of dance.
Zarallo, a prestigious Royal Ballet School graduate, has graced the stage as a Soloist with the Scottish Ballet and as a member of Sydney Dance Company. Now based in Sydney, Australia, he continues his passion for dance as a certified teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance and a committed choreographer and is highly sought after by Sydney’s best schools. Join us as we discuss all things fatherhood.
Victor, balancing a professional dance career and fatherhood is certainly a juggle and a beautiful celebration of movement and life. Could you describe the first moments of becoming a father? What went through your mind?
“The first moments of becoming a father were truly incredible for me. Seeing Noah for the first time brought profound clarity and happiness that’s almost impossible to put into words. It felt as though everything in my life suddenly aligned, and I was overwhelmed with deep joy.
The initial thought that crossed my mind was how prepared Mia and I were for the arrival of Noah and the realisation of the challenge that lay ahead — but never with fear. This was a new chapter for me and a significant change for Mia, who had just started her maternity leave with the Sydney Dance Company. We both understood that this would be the most important ‘performance’ of our careers, a duet that required all our focus and effort.
We always knew that we worked incredibly well as a team. We confidently embraced the challenge, knowing our strong partnership would help us navigate this beautiful new phase of our lives.”
What does a typical day at home with Noah look like?
“A typical day with Noah can vary depending on the day of the week. We usually have a couple of nighttime cries, which Mia handles (which is very nice of her); giving me a bit more rest before we wake up early — 7am is a sleep-in for us! We start the day by spending quality time with Noah and FaceTiming with my parents in Barcelona to maintain their special connection. I then take Pepe, our other ‘dog child,’ for a walk while Mia makes breakfast for everyone.
Depending on the day, I head to work, which could involve teaching, choreographing, coaching, dancing or adjudicating. I always stay in touch with Mia and Noah throughout the day, and seeing Noah’s smile on FaceTime boosts my energy.
When I come home, I take Pepe for another walk and update him on my day — he’s a great listener! Mia and I then handle Noah’s dinner and her favourite part of the day — bath time. After that, we read her a book, prepare her for bed and catch up on each other’s days. We tend to go to bed early, and if I need to, I prepare choreography and classes after Mia falls asleep. It’s very important for us to find our own time as a couple without work or dance involved.
It’s definitely tiring, but with a positive mindset, I’m always ready to embrace the challenges of fatherhood and make the most of each day.”
The early days of parenthood can be gruelling. Have you got practical tips on avoiding injury and managing high exhaustion due to sleep deprivation? How did the dance world prepare you for this type of stamina?
“As mentioned, Noah wakes up a few times each night, so restful nights have been scarce since her arrival. Each morning starts with a strong coffee to help us get going.
My experience as a professional dancer for 13 years, performing with two companies and handling over 100 shows annually, has prepared me for the demands of parenthood. The resilience and stamina built through years of dancing have equipped me with the discipline to face life’s toughest challenges.
In managing the exhaustion, I’ve found that hard work and discipline are key. I accept that I’ll wake up tired and focus on the positive aspects of life. Recognising and appreciating the many beautiful moments with Noah helps me overcome the fatigue and makes the journey incredibly rewarding.”
What is your secret to keeping balance and inspiration flowing?
“My secret to maintaining balance and staying inspired is rooted in organisation and focusing on what truly matters. I find balance through a well-structured daily routine, and by ensuring that Noah, Mia, my parents and I are healthy and happy. This stability provides a strong foundation and keeps me centred.
I also feel incredibly fortunate to work in a field I’m passionate about. Connecting with my students — helping them not only learn to dance but also encouraging them to discover their personalities and overcome fears with positivity — brings me immense joy. This combination of a balanced personal life and fulfilling work ensures that I stay inspired and motivated daily.”
It’s wonderful to see you both as professional dancers pursuing careers and raising a family. What is the key ingredient to work-life balance?
“Balancing careers and family life as professional dancers is a challenge, but the key ingredient for us is communication. Even when fatigue sets in, we make it a point to stay positive and keep each other smiling. Our ability to laugh and connect helps us navigate the demands of both work and parenting.
I’m deeply passionate about my work, but I’ve learned the importance of disconnecting when I come home. Creating dedicated time for our daughter, Noah, and preserving those special moments together without external interruptions is crucial for us.
With Mia returning to full-time dancing with the Sydney Dance Company, we’re entering a new chapter with its own set of challenges. I’m excited to see her back on stage and bring Noah to the theatre — it will be a very special experience. We’re ready to embrace these new opportunities and continue working hard as a team, just as we have for the past seven years.”
Does Noah have any moves she has adopted from you and Mia?
“Noah seems to have picked up some fun from me and Mia. Every time music plays, she starts shaking her body, which is adorable. We love entertaining her with dancing and some wild lip-syncing. It’s truly beautiful to see how she finds comfort and serenity with the music and my movements while I teach. It’s a special bonding moment when she falls asleep with the rhythm of the music and my body movements.”
In three words, describe fatherhood.
“Adventures. Wholesome. Unpredictable.”
By Renata Ogayar of Dance Informa.
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