Maria E. Castello

Maria E. Castello graduated from the National School of Dance and the Contemporary Dance School of Teatro Municipal San Martin, both in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She holds a medical degree from the University of Buenos Aires. She is a Laban/Barteneiff Analyst of movement (CMA) and has a Master Degree in Education. with an endorsement in bilingual education. Castello has been a dancer, choreographer, and teacher for more than 30 years. She has worked in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and the United States. From 1996 to 2004 she led the School of Rockford Dance Company as the first full-time school director. In 2001, Castello received a Finalist Award in choreography from the Illinois Arts Council. In 2002 she was honored with the Hispanic Heritage Award, given by La Voz Latina for her contributions to the cultural life of the community. Castello is the Artistic Director of the Without Shoes Modern Dance Company. She is currently working as an interim School Director for the Rockford Dance Company. She teaches at Lathrop Elementary School, 3rd Bilingual Classroom. Castello developed and directed many outreach programs in the Rockford Community.