Podcast Summary: Moving Moments – Episode Featuring Eduardo Valero
Podcast Information:
- Title: Moving Moments
- Host/Author: Artful Narratives Media
- Description: Your ticket to candid conversations featuring the dance world's most accomplished and groundbreaking artists. Join Dean and Director of Dance at The Juilliard School, Alicia Graf Mack, as she sits down with her closest colleagues and friends to discuss the creative process and living a purposeful life in dance.
- Episode: Eduardo Valero
- Release Date: December 4, 2024
Introduction
In this inspiring episode of Moving Moments, Alicia Graf Mack welcomes Eduardo Valero, the Cuban American dancer, choreographer, educator, and the Artistic Director and CEO of Ballet Hispanico. Eduardo shares his journey from his early beginnings in dance to his leadership role at Ballet Hispanico and the founding of his own organization, Luna Negra Dance Theater. The conversation delves into his creative philosophy, the importance of cultural intersectionality in dance, and his vision for the future of the dance world.
Early Beginnings and Cultural Connection
Eduardo Valero reminisces about his initial connection to dance, emphasizing the role of family and cultural celebrations in fostering his passion.
Eduardo Valero [02:47]: "The first movement has to be that moment when my mom or an auntie or an uncle grabs me and it's a coming together, it's a party, whatever it was and asked you to dance and made you dance... that beginning connects me to culture."
He highlights how these early experiences were pivotal in building his identity and fostering a deep connection to his Latino heritage through movement and music.
Formalizing Dance as a Professional Path
Alicia probes into Eduardo's transition from informal dance experiences to a professional commitment. Eduardo credits a transformative high school teacher for igniting his understanding of being an artist.
Eduardo Valero [05:21]: "I was given the agency to move however I want... that connection to audience, that connection for the artist in communication with the audience was that moment where I felt like I belonged."
This pivotal experience in eighth grade solidified his dedication to pursuing dance professionally, blending personal expression with audience engagement.
Studying Dance in New York City
Eduardo reflects on his time studying dance in New York City, describing the environment as both grueling and immensely inspiring. He speaks of the "grittiness" and the fast-paced nature of the dance world, juxtaposed with the presence of legendary figures who were at the forefront of contemporary and modern dance.
Eduardo Valero [08:23]: "We were surrounded by gods and goddesses... they were leveling the contemporary, the modern world... it was so experimental and without rules."
He recalls the influence of icons like Carmen de Lavallade, Joffrey Holder, Alvin Ailey, and Twyla Tharp, whose groundbreaking work provided a fertile ground for his artistic growth.
Joining Ballet Hispanico and Mentorship Under Tina Ramirez
Transitioning to his professional career, Eduardo narrates his decision to audition for Ballet Hispanico and the pivotal mentorship under Tina Ramirez.
Eduardo Valero [11:23]: "Tina came up afterwards and said, 'We're going on tour and I need a male dancer. The position is yours if you want it.'"
Tina Ramirez's immediate recognition of his potential and her unwavering support were instrumental in shaping his career. Eduardo credits her for instilling in him the importance of leadership and community engagement.
Eduardo Valero [12:39]: "Tina made me the artist that I am first and then led me to this idea of, you can be a leader."
Under her mentorship, he developed programs for underserved youth, blending artistic expression with social impact.
Leadership and Vision at Ballet Hispanico
As Artistic Director and CEO, Eduardo emphasizes his approach to leadership, focusing on embodying the company's mission and fostering a collaborative environment.
Eduardo Valero [14:54]: "I don't ask [dancers about the mission]. I give. From the word go, I'm hiring you. You do understand what this mission is."
He actively participates in educational outreach and performance engagements, ensuring that the company's cultural mission remains at the forefront.
Eduardo Valero [16:05]: "We're creating leaders. We're not just creating art, we're creating leaders."
Founding Luna Negra Dance Theater
Driven by a desire to expand his leadership and impact, Eduardo founded Luna Negra Dance Theater after a decade with Ballet Hispanico. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue a master's degree, which equipped him with the skills to establish his own organization dedicated to Latino dance and community engagement.
Eduardo Valero [16:47]: "I went back to school because school always centered me. When I finished, I decided to start an organization. This city is in need of a Latino dance company. I was crazy, but it worked."
Luna Negra Dance Theater embodies his vision of cultural intersectionality, breaking down silos within the dance community to foster a more inclusive and dynamic art form.
Returning to Ballet Hispanico and Future Vision
Eduardo discusses his return to Ballet Hispanico, driven by a passion to further the company's mission and ensure its enduring legacy in contemporary dance.
Eduardo Valero [23:32]: "I was going to do what I started doing at Luna Negra, which was how to break that idea that we're a monolith, how to show every aspect."
His focus remains on nurturing young talent, integrating community programs, and positioning Ballet Hispanico as a cornerstone of contemporary dance.
Eduardo Valero [24:23]: "We're creating leaders. We're just not creating leaders. That's my focus. We're going to create leaders."
Challenges and Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Eduardo addresses the ongoing challenges within the dance world, particularly regarding DEI. He advocates for maintaining and deepening these efforts, rather than viewing them as trends.
Eduardo Valero [26:57]: "We're doing DEI, and we're doing it on a daily basis. Let's stop trying to do more because we feel that the voice is not being heard."
He underscores the importance of collaboration and mutual learning between dance companies to drive meaningful change.
Eduardo Valero [28:18]: "We're learning from each other... what can I learn from you? What can you learn from me?"
Closing Thoughts and Legacy
Throughout the conversation, Eduardo exemplifies the role of an artist as a citizen—using his platform to inspire, uplift, and connect communities through dance. His legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to cultural representation, leadership in the dance community, and the creation of opportunities for the next generation of Latino artists.
Eduardo Valero [24:34]: "I want to make sure this company always has a seat on the leadership table."
Alicia commends Eduardo for his authentic and sustained commitment to DEI, highlighting Ballet Hispanico as a beacon of intentional and impactful leadership in dance.
Conclusion
Eduardo Valero's journey is a testament to the power of dance as a medium for cultural expression and social change. From his early beginnings inspired by family and cultural celebrations to his influential leadership at Ballet Hispanico and Luna Negra Dance Theater, Eduardo has consistently leveraged his artistry to foster inclusivity and empower communities. His vision for the future underscores the importance of sustaining these efforts, ensuring that dance remains a vibrant and inclusive tapestry of diverse voices and stories.
Notable Quotes:
- Eduardo Valero [02:47]: "That beginning connects me to culture."
- Eduardo Valero [05:21]: "That connection to audience, that connection for the artist in communication with the audience was that moment where I felt like I belonged."
- Eduardo Valero [08:23]: "We were surrounded by gods and goddesses... it was so experimental and without rules."
- Eduardo Valero [11:23]: "The position is yours if you want it."
- Eduardo Valero [12:39]: "Tina made me the artist that I am first and then led me to this idea of, you can be a leader."
- Eduardo Valero [16:05]: "We're creating leaders. We're not just creating art, we're creating leaders."
- Eduardo Valero [26:57]: "We're doing DEI, and we're doing it on a daily basis. Let's stop trying to do more because we feel that the voice is not being heard."
- Eduardo Valero [28:18]: "What can I learn from you? What can you learn from me?"
Final Thoughts:
This episode of Moving Moments provides a comprehensive look into Eduardo Valero's profound impact on the dance community. His insights into cultural intersectionality, leadership, and the ongoing pursuit of diversity and inclusion offer valuable lessons for artists and community leaders alike. Eduardo's dedication to nurturing future generations ensures that his legacy will continue to shape the dance world for years to come.