We had the good fortune of connecting with Alicia Delgadillo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alicia, how do you think about risk?
I don’t believe you get very far without taking risks throughout your career. I’ve changed paths several times, asked tough questions, and made certain choices that some may consider too risky. But I always keep enough trust and faith in myself that I will land on my feet. Taking these risks has led me to discover even more about myself as a person and artist. I dive deeper into my values with every risk I take.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started dancing at the age of 4 and by the time I was 11, I knew that I would make it my career. I spent 12 years as a professional dancer before moving into a leadership role recently. There hasn’t been a single day where I was not challenged. The physicality that is required is one great aspect but more than that is the mental and emotional strength and vulnerability that is required of dancers. Most people assume it’s a fun job. And most of the time it is. However, what they don’t see are all the hours we dedicate to our craft outside of regular business hours. It’s a full lifestyle. It’s a full commitment. And it is tough. I’d love for more people to know that we work as hard if not harder than most athletes and there is very little support or appreciation for it within the United States. It’s not just entertainment. It is our livelihood. Next time you see a live theater performance, consider what the artists go through to put on a production. Give them the applause and respect they deserve.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am currently based in Charlotte, NC. It is growing every day. Some favorite spots so far include: Coquette for brunch in Uptown, The Goodyear House for dinner in NoDa. Workman’s Friend for a beer in Plaza Midwood, Eighty Eights for live jazz and cocktails, The Knight Theater and Charlotte Ballet for art and culture, a day at the Ritz-Carlton Spa, a hike up Crowder’s Mountain, day trip to Asheville, NC, and a stroll through Davidson up towards Lake Norman.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Thank you to my family for always supporting my dreams.

Website: https://www.aliciadelgadillo.com

Instagram: aliisabel

Image Credits
Todd Rosenberg, Nir Arieli, Amanda Delgadillo

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