Marisa Hyoudou
Marisa Hyoudou |
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| Kanji | マリサ 兵藤 |
| Rōmaji | Hyōdō Marisa |
| Age: | Unknown |
| Birthday: | December 21 |
| Height: | Unknown |
| Voice Actor | |
| Japanese | Kaida Yuuko |
| English | No English Dub Yet |
Marisa Hyoudou (兵藤 マリサ, Hyōdō Marisa), is a supporting character in the anime and manga series Ballroom e Youkoso (Welcome to the Ballroom). A former professional Standard dance champion of Russian origin, Marisa is the glamorous and highly skilled mother of Kiyoharu Hyoudou and wife of renowned dance instructor Hideo Hyoudou. Known for her sharp tongue, commanding presence, and deep understanding of ballroom dance, she also maintains a celebrity status in Japan, frequently appearing on television.
Though she has retired from competition, Marisa continues to influence the world of professional dance as a coach and public figure, playing a vital role in shaping the careers of rising dancers including her own son and the series’ protagonist, Tatara Fujita.
Background

Appearance in anime
Originally from Russia, Marisa Hyoudou rose to prominence as a world-class ballroom dancer, specializing in Standard-style dances such as the waltz, quickstep, and foxtrot. During her competitive career, she met and married Hideo Hyoudou, a Japanese dancer and instructor. Together, they became a legendary pair in the dance world and later passed on their legacy to their son, Kiyoharu Hyoudou, a prodigy in his own right.
After retiring from active competition, Marisa chose to remain involved in the dance scene this time as a celebrity commentator, judge, and coach. Her sharp instincts and experience have made her a respected, if intimidating, figure in Japanese dance circles.
Appearance
Marisa is an elegant and striking woman, with long blonde hair, sharp facial features, and a tall, slender figure. She carries herself with confidence and flair, often seen in stylish, high-end clothing that reflects her showbiz and ballroom background.
Her glamorous appearance is matched by her commanding aura, and she’s rarely seen without a bold lipstick or a piercing gaze. Even in casual settings, Marisa’s presence is unforgettable, exuding both beauty and authority.
Personality
Marisa is fiery, assertive, and highly competitive. She doesn’t shy away from expressing her opinions and often intimidates younger dancers with her bluntness. However, she is not without compassion her strict attitude stems from her passion for dance and her desire to see the art form thrive through the next generation.
Despite her strong-willed and sometimes overbearing nature, Marisa is deeply perceptive and capable of recognizing raw potential, which is why she chooses to mentor Tatara, even if her methods can be unorthodox or overwhelming.
Her love for dance is boundless, and she harbors high expectations for her students, often pushing them to their emotional and physical limits. Yet, her mentorship is always rooted in a belief that her students can rise above their circumstances and shine on the stage.
Role in the Story
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Mentor and Challenger
Marisa becomes an important figure in Tatara Fujita’s journey, especially after he is left without a partner. Impressed by his drive and flexibility, she takes him under her wing, pairing him with Mako Akagi for the Tenpei Cup. Though she can be domineering and harsh, Marisa’s guidance helps Tatara grow significantly, both in technique and stage presence. -
Conflict and Growth
Her assertive coaching style leads to conflict with Gaju Akagi, who accuses her of using Mako to make a statement. However, her gamble pays off as Tatara and Mako deliver a breakthrough performance that impresses judges and rivals alike. Marisa also plays a complex role as Kiyoharu’s mother, balancing her professional pride with maternal concern. She pushes Kiyoharu to overcome setbacks and encourages him to maintain his identity as a dancer beyond just natural talent.
Relationships
Kiyoharu Hyoudou
Her son and one of Japan’s top young dancers. While she loves him deeply, Marisa has high expectations for Kiyoharu and often pushes him to break past his limits. Their relationship is both supportive and tension-filled, reflecting the unique challenges of a parent also serving as a mentor.
Hideo Hyoudou
Her husband and fellow dance professional. Though rarely seen together on screen, their legacy in dance is well-respected, and Hideo’s strict yet analytical teaching style contrasts with Marisa’s emotionally intense approach.
Tatara Fujita
Initially skeptical of Tatara’s abilities, Marisa is gradually won over by his tenacity and instinctive understanding of movement. She becomes a key figure in his development as a dancer, helping him transition from amateur to serious competitor.
Mako Akagi
Though Marisa briefly pairs Mako with Tatara, she also encourages Mako to find confidence in her femininity and performance, helping her break free from her brother Gaju’s shadow.
