Ballerina Marize Fumero to Perform Final Milwaukee Ballet
Marize Fumero will conclude her 12-year tenure during the upcoming production of Mirror Mirror.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Dance
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Longtime principal dancer Marize Fumero is set to perform her final production with the Milwaukee Ballet during the staging of Mirror Mirror. The performance will run from November 6 to November 8, 2026, at the Marcus Performing Arts Center.
Why it matters
Fumero is stepping away from her professional ballet career after 12 years to prioritize time with her five-year-old son. She intends to transition into teaching yoga and supporting her family's real estate business while continuing to dance through guest appearances.
Fumero has served 12 years with the Milwaukee Ballet, including 11 years as a leading artist. The production of Mirror Mirror returns to the stage for the first time since 2016.
The players
Marize Fumero
She is a veteran leading artist who has spent 12 years performing with the Milwaukee Ballet.
Milwaukee Ballet
This is a professional dance company based in Milwaukee that provides local performances and arts education.
Marcus Performing Arts Center
This venue serves as the primary stage for major performing arts events in Milwaukee.
Lizzie Tripp-Molina
She is a dancer who will share the role of Claudia with Marize Fumero during the production.
The details
During the performance, dancers will physically move sets and walls onstage to transform the environment. Fumero will share the role of Claudia with fellow dancer Lizzie Tripp-Molina throughout the production run.
Timeline
Mirror Mirror was last performed in Milwaukee in 2016.
The production begins on November 6, 2026.
The final performance concludes on November 8, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The return of Mirror Mirror to the stage follows its last appearance in 2016. Restaging established repertoire allows companies like the Milwaukee Ballet to highlight the growth of long-tenured artists like Fumero before their retirement.
Tickets for the production are available through the Milwaukee Ballet box office. Shows are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on November 6 and 7, with additional performances at 2:00 p.m. on November 7 and 8.
The takeaway
Retiring from a professional dance career is a significant transition that often involves balancing artistic passion with personal family goals. Aspiring dancers may look to Fumero's example of maintaining daily practice and guest work as a sustainable way to remain active in the field.
Further reading
Find more information about regional arts coverage on the Dance section page.
More information
For tickets and showtimes, visit the Milwaukee Ballet ticket and information page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Shepherd Express.
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