Mark Tucker began his dance journey with Ballet Hawaii before continuing his training at prestigious institutions in Miami, Houston, and Washington D.C. He later graduated from the North Carolina School of the Arts with a BFA in Classical Ballet and a minor in Modern Dance.
In 2008, Mark joined Eugene Ballet, rising to Principal Dancer in 2015. Known for his exceptional partnering skills, he has played a key role in the creation of some of Toni Pimble’s most modern works, including Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of The Moon and “I Want You” in All You Need is Love. Over the years, Mark has performed an ever-growing repertoire, collaborating with renowned choreographers such as Edwaard Liang (Age of Innocence), Septime Webre (Alice in Wonderland), Mauricio Wainrot (Anne Frank), Val Caniparoli (Tutto Eccetto il Lavandino), and Salvatore Aiello (Journey). His versatility has shone through in roles like Head Wrangler in Agnes De Mille’s Rodeo, the lead in Heather Maloy’s Stranger, and Waltz Boy in George Balanchine’s Serenade as a guest artist with Ballet Hawaii.
Mark’s journey into lead roles with Eugene Ballet began in 2012, when he starred as the head male in Rite of Spring alongside now Associate Artistic Director Jennifer Martin. He has since delivered standout performances, including his role in Gerald Arpino’s Light Rain and, more recently, his portrayal of Fear in Suzanne Haag’s Firebird. Known for his deeply expressive, character-driven performances, Mark has brought to life compelling roles like Lord Capulet in Romeo and Juliet, Von Rothbart in Swan Lake, and the Sultan in Scheherazade.
One of Mark’s most treasured career moments was starring as Don Jose in Pimble’s Carmen, alongside his wife, Principal Dancer Danielle Tolmie. “Dancing Don Jose opposite Danielle was one of the most powerful and unforgettable experiences of my career,” Mark recalls. “Perhaps the only thing that rivals it was dancing Siegfried while Danielle was pregnant with our first son, Luca. He was moving like crazy during the Black Swan scene!”
Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 season, Mark is excited to return as Don Jose alongside Danielle in Carmen, as well as participating in the highly anticipated Toni program. “Toni is absolutely brilliant and working with her has shaped so much of my career and the way I think about dance. It’s my privilege and honor to dance for her.”
