The School of Sacramento Ballet is entering an exciting new chapter. We are proud to announce Matteo Giulio Tonolo as Director of the School, bringing a distinguished international career as a performer, coach, and educator to the next generation of Sacramento dancers.
Matteo Giulio Tonolo, originally from Moncalieri, Italy, received his foundational training at the Accademia Regionale del Teatro Nuovo di Torino under the guidance of Daniela Chianini, Niurka Naranjo De Saa, Antonio Della Monica, and other distinguished teachers. At just seventeen, he began his professional career with the Compagnia Teatro Nuovo di Torino, demonstrating an early dedication to classical ballet and artistic excellence.
He continued his career in the United States and Europe before joining the Estonian National Theater Vanemuine, where he served as a soloist from 2012 to 2022. During his decade with the company, he performed an extensive repertoire of classical, neoclassical, and contemporary works.
Throughout his international career, he collaborated with distinguished choreographers, such as Giorgio Madia, Petr Zuska, Jelena Pankova among others. Original roles were created for him and his performance career included tours throughout Europe, the United States, and China.
Following his retirement from the stage, Mr. Giulio Tonolo transitioned into teaching, coaching, and artistic leadership, bringing his extensive professional experience into the studio. Most recently, he served as Men’s Program Coordinator and faculty member at Tulsa Ballet’s Center for Dance Education.
His pedagogical approach is developed from his study of the Vaganova, Cecchetti, and Cuban methodologies, alongside his experience in contemporary and character dance. As Director of the School of Sacramento Ballet, he draws upon this diverse background and his international performance career to foster an inspiring and inclusive learning environment grounded in technical excellence, musicality, and artistic expression. He is committed to nurturing each dancer’s individual potential, strengthening the connection between the school and the professional company, and cultivating a culture of mentorship, collaboration, and artistic curiosity. His vision is to preserve the enduring traditions of classical ballet while embracing thoughtful innovation, preparing the next generation of dancers for professional success and a lifelong appreciation of the art form.
Under Mr. Tonolo’s leadership, the School will continue to honor the classical traditions at the heart of our art form while opening new doors for students at every level. We look forward to the artistry, discipline, and joy he will bring to our studios, and to every dancer who will grow under his guidance. Don’t miss one step of this new chapter.