Today we’d like to introduce you to Marta Bataller Leiva.
Hi Marta, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Artistic Journey
My journey began at a very young age. I was an incredibly active child with an innate passion for movement and non-verbal expression; I always felt most at home either dancing or practicing gymnastics. I started ballet training early on, but being so full of energy, I found the traditional structure a bit slow at the time. At my request, my parents enrolled me in rhythmic gymnastics, and within a few years, I became a national champion in Spain.
While competing in gymnastics, a friend inspired me to return to dance. At 16, I began my formal training as a dancer. My progress was rapid, and my teacher encouraged me to audition for the world-renowned Maurice Béjart school in Switzerland. Although external circumstances prevented me from taking that specific audition, my passion for dance never wavered.
Alongside my training, I began practicing meditation, Yoga, and Tai Chi. These disciplines helped me find serenity and understand the root of my artistic drive—a drive that was uniquely mine, as my family didn’t come from an artistic background. These practices allowed me to connect with my essence and authenticity, giving me the strength to move forward.
At 18, fueled by deep existential questions and a powerful need to express myself to the world, I embarked on a solo pilgrimage. I walked from my hometown in Spain all the way to Jerusalem, training every single day along the way. This journey was a way to understand life, navigate some difficult family moments, and gain clarity on my true vocation.
Upon my return, I was certain of my path. I successfully auditioned for the conservatory, where I completed my degree in Classical Dance Pedagogy, alongside a degree in Early Childhood Education. My skills continued to evolve as I transitioned into aerial arts, which eventually led me into the world of circus.
After finishing my studies, I landed my first audition in Paris, followed by a contract in Switzerland. While there, I sent my videos to Cirque du Soleil—Calavia , a company that had captivated me since I saw a show at 16. To my amazement, I was hired without a formal audition. That marked the debut of my international career as a circus artist. Since then, I haven’t stopped; I’ve performed on the world’s most prestigious stages with incredible companies and worked alongside spectacular people who have shaped me as an artist.
My career has unfolded naturally as I walked my path. While it has been a journey of growth and success, it also came with the typical insecurities of not knowing the next step, but life and the people I met always opened the right doors.
Recently, I decided to move to the United States on an O-1 “Extraordinary Ability” artist visa to start fresh. I wanted to explore this market on my own terms, starting in Las Vegas. Over the past year and a half, I’ve worked with several companies in Vegas, performing hair suspension with Yuri Productions, working in television withNeils, and performing in various festivals with Flux (a Cirque du Soleil-affiliated company).
Until recently, I have been performing as a Guest Entertainer alongside a wonderful circus artist for Princess Cruise Line. After this incredible experience at sea, I decided to establish myself in Miami to explore the local entertainment scene and the diverse range of shows this city offers.
Currently, I am expanding my professional horizons by coordinating events. I feel a deep calling not only to be on stage but also to work behind the scenes—managing talent, producing events, and creating original choreography. A new chapter of my career is unfolding here in the United States, and I am thrilled about the possibilities.
At this stage, I am in the process of applying for my Green Card to remain here permanently. My goal is to continue contributing my artistic vision to a world that truly needs art. I believe in the power of beauty and non-verbal communication to reach depths that words simply cannot express, and I am committed to building a career that honors that essence here in my new home.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In many ways, my journey has been one of natural progression, where opportunities seemed to align effortlessly with my vision.
On the other hand, it hasn’t always been easy. I have faced the emotional challenges that come with being far from home and the uncertainty of never knowing where my next contract or step would lead. My heart has often felt divided, longing for the presence of my loved ones. Over time, I’ve realized that many of those fears lived only in my mind, while the reality around me remained beautiful and supportive, sustained by my friends and the life I was building.
This profession demands immense sacrifice. It requires relentless effort, constant physical discipline, and the pressure of staying in peak form. Yet, it is this very passion that has fueled me. My journey is one of profound encounters and deep dedication—a beautiful path where the challenges of travel and distance are balanced by the spectacular people I’ve met and the artistic fulfillment I’ve found
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
“My foundation is built on the rigorous world of a circus performer. Throughout my career, I have taken on lead roles in major productions and high-profile events. My primary specialties include aerial silks and aerial hoop (Lyra), but I have also mastered trapeze, bungees, and duo straps. For seven years, I was part of a hand-to-hand duo, a partnership that required years of intense dedication and mutual trust.
At its core, dance is my soul. In every circus act I perform, I integrate fluid, dancer-like movement, ensuring that the technique is always infused with artistic expression. This professional foundation has always grown alongside my spiritual development; my curiosity about life led me to seek out tools and studies that helped me evolve as both a person and an artist.
I’ve always been drawn to the freedom of the open road, which led me to buy a Harley Davidson. This passion inspired me to create a unique aerial act involving my motorcycle, a fusion of my two worlds. Another of my most powerful and visually stunning specialties is hair suspension, an ancient art that has become a signature part of my repertoire. Whether performing at great heights or on the ground, on stages across the globe, I continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
“”If I had to define what matters most to me, it isn’t a simple answer. Above all, I value my own happiness and the commitment to living authentically. My goal is to use my own life as a light to illuminate those around me. I want to inspire others by example, showing them that life is a blank canvas—a protected space where we have the divine opportunity to develop our true selves.
I believe that despite the difficulties, despite what we are told, and despite the value systems that try to make us feel small, we can rise above our fears. For me, the most important thing is the ability to express myself and expose my true essence to the world without fear.
I want to inspire as many people as possible to ‘step out of the box’ and dare to be themselves. We are here to enjoy this life, to move, to be joyful, and to become exactly who we want to be. This is what makes me feel a sense of oneness—a deep connection not only with myself but with the unity of the entire world.”
Pricing:
- I have as a tool the tarot
- I am into wellness with supplements and healthcare
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.martabaley.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motorartmarbey
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BCmRhei62/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BLMarta
