Viola grew up in Genova, Italy, where she began her training as a rhythmic gymnast as part of the Italian Juniors National Squad. At the age of 14, she moved to ballet and contemporary dance training, gaining professional experience with Kaleido Danse Company. In 2008, Viola moved to London to train at London Contemporary Dance School (LCDS). During her time there, she worked with Martin Lawrence, RADC and Darren Johnston, as well as taking part in a number of international workshops and choreographing her own work. In addition, Viola danced in a number of commercial productions and toured to Italy and London venues as part of LC3 (LCDS’s Professional Touring Experience Programme), performing works by Siobhan Davies and Richard Alston. Viola graduated in July 2011 and joined Tavaziva Dance as part of LCDS’s Postgraduate Apprenticeship Scheme in September 2011.