San Diego Ballet | Professional Ballet Company & School — San Diego, CA

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Castro, Alfonso

Alfonso Castro was born and raised in San Diego, California, where he began his ballet training at the age of fifteen. A year later, he joined San Diego Ballet School, studying under the guidance of Igor Yurlov and Karen Foster.

Alfonso began his journey with San Diego Ballet Company in 2022, joining the company for its annual Nutcracker tour and performing various soloist roles in Javier Velasco’s repertoire. At the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, Alfonso was offered a company position. At the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, alfonso was offered a company position. He is excited to step into this new role where he can continue developing his artistry and grow as a professional dancer while sharing his passion for ballet on stage. 

Questions and answers :
 

  • What ignited your passion for dance?

My passion for dance was ignited during childhood. Whether through family parties, music videos, or school recitals, I was always drawn to music and movement. Long before I knew that a career in professional dance was possible, I knew that dance was not only something that came naturally to me, but also something I felt deeply connected to. Today, I strive to honor the dreams, passion, and joy that my younger self carried, continuing to nurture the love for dance that has been a part of me since the very beginning.

  • What inspired you to pursue a professional career in dance?

I was inspired to pursue a professional dance career to represent my hometown of San Ysidro and honor my Latin culture and family, showing that someone from a border town with humble beginnings can achieve great things.

  • What is your favorite thing about being a dancer?

My favorite thing about being a dancer is the feeling of being on stage, the adrenaline, the joy, and being fully immersed in character, where all pressures melt away and it’s just fun.

  • What is your biggest dream for your dance career?

My biggest dream for my dance career is to perform worldwide, visiting different countries and sharing my passion, charisma, and artistry with audiences around the globe.

  • When you’re not pirouetting and perfecting your pliés, what brings you joy?

I’ve always enjoyed fashion. I love putting together outfits and expressing myself, feeling a bit like a model when I do.

  • What is the most transformative experience you’ve had as a dancer?

The most transformative experience as a dancer came during my student years when I received my first distinction on a Royal Academy of Dance exam under my first teacher, Carla Perez. It transformed how I saw myself, from a simple student to a promising young artist with real potential.

  • What is your favorite ballet?

My favorite ballet is Giselle and Javier Velasco’s Mambomania.

  • What is your favorite role you have performed at San Diego Ballet and what is a role you would like to perform in the future?

The Role of The Russian Dance in The Nutcracker was my favorite to perform at The San Diego Ballet. It is an incredibly challenging but fun piece. I would love to dance the Cat Pas De Deux in The Sleeping Beauty.

  • What is your favorite local spot in San Diego?

My favorite local spot in San Diego is An’s Dry Cleaning in North Park, a dry cleaning–themed ice cream parlor. It became a regular place to end the night with friends. The ice cream is delicious, and I love North Park.