Andrew’s passion for dance began in his hometown of Phoenix, Arizona. There, his early training started at Arizona School of Classical Ballet under Nadia Zubkov, and later at Master Ballet Academy. Upon graduating from Brophy College Preparatory, he set off to Tucson to continue his studies at the University of Arizona School of Dance. During his time at the School of Dance, Andrew performed works by James Clouser, Tamara Dyke-Compton, Michael Williams, Sam Watson, Desiree Dunbar, and was featured in a Ben Stevenson’s “Four Last Songs”. Andrew is a graduate of the University of Arizona School of Fine Arts with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. In 2016, Andrew danced with Convergence Ballet in Phoenix, Arizona where he performed choreography by Kevin Jenkins. The following year, Andrew joined Artifact Dance Project where he danced lead roles with live musical artist, such as rock band Ryanhood. This is Andrew’s first season with San Diego Ballet and he is excited for the new season!
Who influenced you most to become the dancer you are today?
Although I feel influenced by every teacher I have taken from, one that affected me the most is Tamara Dyke-Compton, one of my professors at the University of Arizona School of Dance. Her immense love for teaching moved me as a dancer and teacher.
What was the funniest episode(s) you’ve experienced in your career?
While performing The Nutcracker with Ballet Arizona and the Phoenix Symphony, the head to my Nutcracker costume fell off after an unchoreographed shove from the giant Mouse King in the battle scene. Although we stayed calm, there wasn’t enough music for Drosselmeyer and I to get my head back on in time. To save the scene, the mouse king decided to impale himself on my sword before being dragged off by the rest of the mice. I was mortified in the moment, but I can laugh about it almost ten years later.
Who would you most like to share the stage with (living or dead)?
One person I would most like to share the stage with is Janie Parker.
What goes through your mind just before you perform?
Before I perform, I’m mostly thinking about notes from the night before or trying to get in the zone. I usually get serious and extremely focused backstage, sort of in a meditative state of mind.
What do you like/admire most about San Diego Ballet?
What I admire most about San Diego Ballet is the overflowing passion and commitment I have seen from the dancers and artistic staff.