The Forza Malizia Dance Company is a New York City based organization that was founded in early 2014 by dancer and choreographer Maria Malizia. Maria was a dual major in Integrative Arts and Italian Language at the Pennsylvania State University. During her senior year, she produced an original dance production based on the classic literature, The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri. It was a modern a
daptation featuring key elements such as a strong female lead and the use of hip-hop music, which is in strong contrast to the nature of the original work. The show was titled Lost In The World: Journey of Bea. As Maria moved to New York City from State College, Pennsylvania, she became actively involved in the dance scene by showcasing a series of original works throughout the city. That experience, along with further dance training at schools such as Alvin Ailey, inspired her to reproduce the Lost In the World production. This is a nod to her dance and liberal arts community from Penn State. Additionally, her work will also proudly acknowledge her Italian heritage. Through all adversity, Maria exhibits FORZA which is a founding principle and core belief for her and all her staff members.
