Bio

Nayon Iovino’s journey began at age ten in Brazil under Gisela Vaz, a foundation that propelled him to a full scholarship at The Washington School of Ballet by seventeen. His formative years were defined by a relentless pursuit of technical mastery, leading to a distinguished performance career with Houston Ballet II, The Washington Ballet, and Ballet Arizona. From 2012 until his retirement from the stage in 2025, Iovino garnered international acclaim, performing works by legends like Balanchine and Tharp, and earning praise from The New York Times for his "critically acclaimed" artistry.

This deep, physical knowledge of the stage catalyzed a profound shift toward creation. Since 2013, Iovino has evolved into a visionary Brazilian-American choreographer, blending his classical roots with an architecturally striking contemporary style. Now serving as the Resident Choreographer for Ballet Arizona and Artistic Director of the Sedona Choreography Retreat, he has crafted over 26 original works.

His creative arc reached a new zenith in 2024 with the full-length production Moving Movies, a cross-disciplinary innovation merging Hollywood nostalgia with modern ballet. A fellow of the New York Choreographic Institute and named “Best Choreographer” by Phoenix New Times, Iovino’s work represents a steadfast commitment to pushing the boundaries of the art form through emotionally resonant and musically inventive storytelling.

REVIEWS AND RECOGNITIONS

2025 - Founding Artistic Director of Sedona Choreography Retreat

2019 - Participant of New York Choreographic Institute

2018 - Best Choreographer by Phoenix New Times

2017 - Up and coming under 40 by AZCentral

2016 - Recognized in Ib Andersen’s Round at Botanical Garden’s by New York Times

2015 - Outstanding Performance of Napoli by New York Times

AWARDS

World Ballet Competition, 2011 – 1st place

Youth America Grand Prix Finals, 2009—3rd place

Youth America Grand Prix Semi-Finals 2009—2nd place

Youth America Grand Prix Semi-Finals 2008—2nd place (contemporary) and 3rd place (classical)

FestDanca 2005—1st place (Brazil)