Maria Tallchief Quotes

Above all, I wanted to be appreciated as a prima ballerina who happened to be a Native American, never as someone who was an American Indian ballerina.

Maria Tallchief

I despaired to be esteemed as a top-tier dancer who happened to be of Indigenous American descent, never as an individual who was a Native American ballerina.

A ballerina takes steps given to her and makes them her own. Each individual brings something different to the same role.

Maria Tallchief

A dancer interprets the steps given to them and personalizes them. Each performer imbues the same part with their own unique style.

I don't mind being listed alphabetically. I do mind being treated alphabetically.

Maria Tallchief

What's important is that I'm working with very talented young people.

Maria Tallchief