If you’ve been keeping up with the dance world lately, you’ve probably heard the buzz around Cervilio Amador and his latest project with the Cincinnati Ballet. As a principal dancer and now choreographer, Amador is diving deep into something we don’t see enough of in classical ballet: authentic American stories.
Let’s be real—ballet has often been dominated by European narratives. *Swan Lake*, *Giselle*, *The Nutcracker*… iconic, yes, but sometimes you crave something that hits closer to home. That’s exactly what Amador is bringing to the stage. He’s not just retelling stories; he’s redefining what ballet can represent in modern America.
What’s so refreshing about Amador’s approach is his willingness to blend classical technique with themes that resonate today. We’re talking about narratives rooted in American history, culture, and even contemporary social issues. This isn’t ballet stuck in the past—it’s ballet evolving, staying relevant, and inviting new audiences in.
And can we talk about representation? Having a artist like Amador—a Cuban-born dancer who’s become a standout in the American dance scene—choreographing these stories adds layers of authenticity and perspective. It’s a reminder that American stories are diverse, complex, and deserve to be centered in all forms of art, including ballet.
For the Cincinnati Ballet, this direction isn’t just artistic—it’s smart. It positions them as innovators in a competitive landscape, attracting audiences who might not typically buy a ticket to see *Coppélia* but would show up for a powerful, relatable narrative told through movement.
Amador’s work is a testament to where ballet is headed: more inclusive, more daring, and unafraid to tackle the stories that define us now. If this is the future of dance, count me in.
