Introduction and Background on Isaac Hernández
Isaac Hernández, a renowned international ballet dancer and the first Mexican to win the prestigious Benois de la Danse award in 2018, is set to present the eleventh edition of Despertares. This gala, scheduled for August 30th at Mexico City’s Auditorio Nacional, aims to showcase the best of world dance for Mexican audiences.
Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, in 1990, Hernández has achieved remarkable success. He joined the American Ballet Theatre in New York, a company regarded as a national treasure in the United States. His career has been marked by collaborations with top-tier companies and choreographers, allowing him to witness the creation and performance of exclusive ballet pieces in New York.
Despertares and its Impact
Despertares, an initiative spearheaded by Hernández, brings together around 30 elite performers from prestigious companies such as the Paris Opera, La Scala in Milan, English National Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre. This gala not only offers a world-class dance experience but also aims to foster and educate the public through alternative programs.
In a recent interview, Hernández expressed his deep connection to the Auditorio Nacional stage, emphasizing its unique significance for both him and his audience. He also highlighted the importance of Despertares Impulsa, a former project that provided valuable resources and training opportunities for aspiring artists. Although not part of this year’s edition, Hernández assured that elements from Despertares Impulsa will continue to enrich the gala.
Hernández’s Vision for Dance Policy and Public Support
When asked about his views on public policy to promote dance among younger generations, Hernández advocated for a collaborative approach between the government and artists. He emphasized the need for incentives, such as tax benefits and the implementation of models similar to those in France and England, which have proven effective in professionalizing creative industries.
Despertares 2025: Key Details
- Date: August 30th
- Venue: Auditorio Nacional, Mexico City
- Time: 8:30 PM
Principal Dancers in Despertares 2025
- Isaac Hernández – American Ballet Theatre (USA)
- Katherine Barkman – San Francisco Ballet (USA)
- Esteban Hernández – San Francisco Ballet (USA)
- Marion Barbeau – Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris (France)
- Simón Le Borgne – Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris (France)
- Catherine Hurlin – American Ballet Theatre (USA)
- Sae Eun Park – Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris (France)
- Takumi Miyake – Royal Danish Ballet (Denmark)
- Germain Louvet – Opéra de Paris (France)
- Tiler Peck – New York City Ballet (USA)
- Roman Mejía – New York City Ballet (USA)
- Gabrielle Frola – National Ballet of Canada
- Aran Bell – American Ballet Theatre (USA)
- Ivana Bueno – Royal Ballet (UK)
- Ghetto Funk Collective – (Netherlands)
- Roberto Bolle – Former Étoile of La Scala, Milan
- Chey Jurado – International Artist (Spain)
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is Despertares? A: An annual gala organized by Isaac Hernández to showcase the best of world dance for Mexican audiences.
- Q: Who are the principal dancers in Despertares 2025? A: The list includes renowned artists from companies such as the American Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet, Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris, Royal Danish Ballet, and National Ballet of Canada.
- Q: What is Hernández’s vision for dance policy? A: He advocates for government collaboration and incentives, such as tax benefits, to professionalize creative industries.
- Q: What was Despertares Impulsa? A: A former project by Hernández that provided resources and training opportunities for aspiring artists.
