Mariah Nieslanik shines as a standout performer in “FANTASY,” bringing confidence, high-energy moves, and an undeniable stage presence to one of Las Vegas’ most iconic productions.

A dedicated dancer with a passion for performance, Mariah blends athleticism and artistry to captivate audiences night after night. In this spotlight, she shares her journey to the Las Vegas stage, what it means to be part of “FANTASY,” and how discipline, creativity, and self-expression fuel her life both on and off the stage.

Mariah Nieslanik Began Dancing As A Toddler

Mariah has been dancing pretty much her entire life, and from the very early days, she said “it felt like home.”

“Dance was always the place where I could be expressive, powerful, and completely myself,” she told The 702. “I fell in love with the feeling of performing long before I even understood it could be my career.”

Mariah said that everyone told her at the age of 3 after her first ballet recital that she had “IT” and since hearing the audience respond while performing for her first time on stage, something “clicked.”

“I knew I wanted to chase that feeling of connection, artistry, and electricity for the rest of my life,” she continued. “I remember being young and watching the older dancers rehearse, completely mesmerized by their confidence and  precision. I told myself, ‘One day, that will be me.’ That moment has stayed with me and pushed me forward.”

As far as what dance has taught her throughout her journey, she said, “strength and vulnerability can exist in the same breath. It has taught me dedication, self-expression, teamwork, and the importance of showing up, even on the hard days.”

Mariah Has Called Las Vegas Home For Many Years

Mariah has been living in Las Vegas since she was 18 years old. She said this is where she “grew up as a performer and built her career.”

Before “FANTASY,” she performed in a few other shows in Las Vegas, which helped her to build her experience and versatility, but she said “FANTASY” “has been the most defining and special chapter of my career.”

When asked what the best part of being in “FANTASY” is for her she said, “The sisterhood, the professionalism and the chance to bring strong, feminine, empowering energy to the stage every night.”  She added, “‘FANTASY’ is a family, and getting to be part of something so iconic feels like a dream.”

Stepping On Stage For Her First Show In ‘FANTASY’

Mariah explained that ahead of her first show with “FANTASY,” she was ready to make “everyone proud.”

“Before my first show, I was equal parts nervous and excited. I wanted to make everyone proud,” she told The 702. “The moment I stepped off stage afterward, I knew I’d found my home. It felt like all the years of training and sacrifice had led to that moment.”

When discussing a fun fact that many people may not be aware of about being a dancer in Las Vegas, Mariah said that people often tell her they are surprised at “how much discipline, preparation, and athleticism go into our performances.”

“It’s glamorous on stage, but behind the scenes, we’re basically elite athletes in lashes and lipstick,” she shared.

And when asked what the hardest part about being a professional showgirl, she said it’s got to be “balancing the high physical demands with life outside the theater.”

“It takes strength, focus, and a whole lot of heart,” she added. “Being a showgirl is not just about beauty. It’s about discipline, storytelling, and resilience. Showgirls are some of the hardest working performers in the industry.”

When Mariah Is Not On Stage

When she’s not dancing, Mariah loves exploring little hidden gems around Las Vegas, enjoying good food, spending time with family and soaking up any quiet time that’s left.

“My favorite things in Vegas are the experiences, from amazing shows to the beauty of Red Rock to simple nights out with loved ones,” she said.

Mariah is also a mom, and shared that “becoming a mother while continuing my career has been one of the greatest honors of my life.”

“It’s shown me strength I didn’t know I had and given new meaning to why I perform,” she added. “Everything I do is for my daughter, and I’m grateful every day that she gets to grow up seeing her mom do what she loves.”

As far as what the future holds for Mariah, she hopes to continue performing and contributing to “FANTASY” in new ways, while continuing to build a life for her daughter.

“I’m passionate about producing, empowering other performers, and continuing to evolve as an artist and businesswoman,” she shared.