1. When and How did you start dancing?
I was dying to take ballet classes as a kid and finally, when I was eight, my mother took me to Mioara Popescu’s Dance School in Athens, Greece. That was where I took my first ballet classes with an amazing teacher that is still my mentor.
2. Can you describe a favorite memory of you dancing? Set the stage for us!
Hard to pick just one, but I would say when I danced with Dardo Galleto’s dance company in Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival. The experience of dancing in such a beautiful place and being part of a prestigious festival, made it a moment that I will always cherish! This big, beautiful outdoor stage in the middle of the trees and the mountains is really breathtaking!
3. What is your favorite ballet and why?
My favorite ballet is Giselle! More than anything I find the musical composition compelling. The adagio in the second act’s pas de deux is probably my favorite piece.
The lyricism of movement combined with a love story makes it the diamond of what is called Romantic Ballet!
4. What is the biggest motivation for you to work out when you have an “off” day?
My most effective motivation is reminding myself that movement is what truly makes me feel good! That feeling of happiness and general well-being after even a quick workout is all I need to remember on a day-off!
5. How do unwind at the end of the day after balancing a full day of training and being a mom?
Sit still for a few minutes! I seek to find quiet time to reconnect with myself and sometimes I take a good stretch to reset and be ready for the next day. It’s amazing how stretching helps release the tension and the stress!
6. What is your favorite pre- or post- workout snack?
That would definitely be Greek yogurt with honey! And maybe some walnuts! It’s light, super tasty and gives me the energy I need before my workout. It’s also a great choice for post-workout , to kick-start the muscle recovery.
7. What is your guilty pleasure meal?
Any form of chocolate!
8. What is your favorite music to play when you work out?
I’m a classical music lover, so that is probably my number one choice most of the times. Now depending on the day and the mood I might play jazz or reggae, always trying to match the beat of my movement.
9. What are your 3 favorite workouts in the Streaming Library?
Full Body Arms, Second Position Plié Burn, Bikini Blast
10. What is your favorite leotard, accessories, or slipper in the Ballet Beautiful store?
I absolutely LOVE the halter leotards, it’s the most comfortable and flattering leotard! I live in it, for classes and outside! I’m also a big fan of the prima pro canvas slippers, they are super soft and I love how their split sole allows a great foot articulation.
11. What is your favorite Livestream class style to host?
I have a special love for arms and posture so I think this is my favorite livestream class style to host. Strengthening our core, arm and back muscles improves our posture, which is not only important for strength and injury prevention , but also gives us a graceful stance in our every-day life!
12. Give me 3 words to describe your training style.
balanced, intense & graceful
13. What is the most rewarding part of training with Ballet Beauties?
A fantastic interview with the beautiful Dioni! If you’re interested in training with her, reach out to privatetraining@balletbeautiful.com to reserve a session. You can catch Dioni in weekly Classic & Prima Exclusive Subscriber Livestreams and of course, in the Ballet Beautiful Libraries.
