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

Hi Valentin, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
Passion, kindness, and a sense of humor are valued principles to me because the people I work with can inspire and make the experience phenomenal! As they do!

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 am incredibly proud of my journey from Argentina to the USA to pursue my passion for ballet. I moved away from home to Houston at 14 years old to join Ben Stevenson’s Houston Ballet Academy. My dedication and hard work paid off as I had the opportunity to train with an incredible school and go on to dance with Orlando Ballet, Texas Ballet Theater, and Pointeworks.

What truly sets me apart is my commitment to artistry and storytelling in my performances. I pour my heart and soul into every movement, bringing life to each role I embody on stage. I am excited to continue pushing the boundaries of classical ballet and sharing my unique perspective with audiences around the world.

I am most proud of the strong partnership I have with my dance partner Rayleigh Vendt in Pointeworks’ Floreciente. Our exceptional communication and shared dedication to our work sets us apart from others. It brings me immense joy to dance alongside someone who puts their heart into creating beautiful performances with me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
A day out in La Jolla! I always love walking around the coves, and having brunch by the shores. And of course topped off with an evening at the ballet, watching Pointeworks perform at the Conrad Theater!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to Pointeworks company, my fellow dancers, and Ben Stevenson. Thank you for all the efforts, support, mentorship, love, and encouragement that have helped me grow and become a better dancer. Your impact on my life and career is truly invaluable.

Ben Stevenson has always encouraged me to watch more ballet. He has brought me on trips to Cuba, to see the Carlos Acosta at the Royal Ballet. Those performances and experiences left me so inspired and helped influence my dancing.

Website: https://www.pointeworks.org

Instagram: @pointe_works

Other: https://www.pointeworks.org/watch/v/the-tides-pas-de-deux

Image Credits
Nathan Carlson

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.