Indy Ballerina Juggles Dance and Restaurant Ownership

Yoshiko Kamikusa pursues her father's dream of opening a restaurant while maintaining her career as a prima ballerina.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:00am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph depicting a chef's hands preparing food in a kitchen, with a ballerina's legs in the foreground, creating a dreamlike, atmospheric scene that captures the duality of Yoshiko Kamikusa's life as both a restaurant owner and prima ballerina.A rising star in Indianapolis' culinary and ballet scenes, Yoshiko Kamikusa seamlessly balances her passions for food and dance.Indianapolis Today

Yoshiko Kamikusa, a rising star in the Indianapolis ballet scene, has taken on the challenge of opening her own restaurant while continuing to perform as a prima ballerina. Kamikusa's father had long dreamed of opening a restaurant, and his passing inspired her to turn that dream into a reality.

Why it matters

Kamikusa's story highlights the incredible dedication and work ethic required to succeed in both the culinary and performing arts industries. Her ability to balance these two demanding careers is a testament to her passion and drive, and serves as an inspiration to others pursuing unconventional paths.

The details

By day, Kamikusa can be found overseeing the operations of her new restaurant, which features a fusion of Japanese and American cuisine. By night, she transforms into a world-class ballerina, performing lead roles with the Indianapolis Ballet. Kamikusa's father had battled cancer for years, and his determination to open a restaurant before his passing motivated her to carry on his dream.

  • Kamikusa's father passed away in 2024 after a long battle with cancer.
  • Kamikusa opened her new restaurant in downtown Indianapolis in March 2026.
  • Kamikusa continues to perform as a prima ballerina with the Indianapolis Ballet.

The players

Yoshiko Kamikusa

A rising star in the Indianapolis ballet scene who has taken on the challenge of opening her own restaurant while continuing her career as a prima ballerina.

Kamikusa's Father

Kamikusa's father had long dreamed of opening a restaurant, and his passing inspired her to turn that dream into a reality.

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What they’re saying

“He went through chemo, he went through radiation, he went through the rigor with that. He fought until the very end.”

— Yoshiko Kamikusa

What’s next

Kamikusa plans to continue performing with the Indianapolis Ballet while also growing her new restaurant business. She hopes to one day open additional locations to honor her father's legacy.

The takeaway

Kamikusa's story demonstrates the power of pursuing one's passions, even in the face of adversity. Her ability to balance the demands of the culinary and performing arts industries is a testament to her dedication and resilience, and serves as an inspiration to others seeking to forge their own unique paths.