James LaRose Powell is a San Diego based contemporary dance artist recognized for his musicality, grounded presence, and versatility across contemporary, modern, and ballet repertoire. James began his dance training with his father, Spencer Powell, developing an early foundation in tap and musical theatre before expanding his training into modern, contemporary, and ballet. A longtime artist with Mounarath Powell Dance since 2016, he has collaborated with choreographers including Jeanne Travers, Khamla Somphanh, Kevin Jenkins, Emily Navarra, Jean Isaacs, Betzi Roe, Javier Velasco, and Emily Adams.
His performance career has taken him to stages nationally and internationally, including Holding Common Ground: Pathways to Cultural Exchange in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the LA Dance Festival, and the Mix Match Festival. James is currently a company artist with San Diego Ballet and has also performed with Ballet Counterpointe, The Rosin Box Project, and Opera NEO, where he portrayed Puck in The Fairy Queen.
His training includes ballet, Horton, Limón, Dunham, and contemporary techniques, with additional study at the Alvin Ailey Extension and professional division classes and intensives at the Paul Taylor Dance Company. His diverse training has shaped an approach to movement that bridges the athleticism and grounded qualities of modern dance with the precision and technique of ballet.
Drawn to both physically demanding and emotionally nuanced work, James values collaboration, musicality, and honest storytelling through movement. He is especially passionate about partnering and approaches each creative process with curiosity, discipline, and a commitment to continual growth.
“I believe in the quiet power of hard work, the discipline of patience, and the grit of persistence, but above all, I believe in loving the process. That’s where the artistry is built.” James LaRose Powell
1. What ignited your passion for dance?
My love for music was probably what first ignited my passion for dance. Growing up, I loved watching people dance in music videos and trying to copy the choreography and movement I saw. Dance was also close to home for me. My father was a dancer and is a choreographer, so having that influence in my life helped turn my natural connection to music and movement into something I wanted to pursue further.
2. What inspired you to pursue a professional career in dance?
My family played a huge role in inspiring me to pursue dance professionally. Having people around me who supported me, believed in my ability, and encouraged me to keep going gave me the confidence to take dance seriously as a career. My grandmother, in particular, was my biggest supporter and fan. Having that kind of belief behind me helped me believe that I could make a life doing something I love.
3. What is your favorite thing about being a dancer?
One of my favorite things about being a dancer is how humbling it can be. Dance keeps you honest. There is always something to improve, and the career constantly challenges you physically and mentally. Maintaining the fitness, discipline, memory, and lifestyle necessary to meet those demands pushes me to keep growing. I also love that dance has given me opportunities to travel, experience new places, and meet people I may never have crossed paths with otherwise.
4. What is your biggest dream for your dance career?
My biggest dream is actually something I feel like I’m moving toward now: being able to support myself through my art and passion. I’ve put a lot of work into getting to a place where I can dance year round, and being able to build a sustainable life around doing what I love is something that means a lot to me.
5. When you are not pirouetting and perfecting your pliés, what brings you joy?
Spending time with my dog, family, and friends brings me the most joy outside of dance. I value being present for the people I love and simply getting to enjoy their company.
6. What is the most transformative experience you’ve had as a dancer?
Stepping outside of my comfort zone and becoming more serious about ballet has been one of the most transformative parts of my journey as a dancer. Ballet was something I used to shy away from, but choosing to embrace it has opened so many opportunities for me. It has challenged me technically, helped me grow as a performer, and expanded what I thought I was capable of as a dancer.
7. What is your favorite ballet?
My favorite ballet is Othello. I love that it replaces the traditional fairy tale quality associated with many ballets with something darker and more visceral. The story feels like a psychological thriller, and I’m drawn to how the emotional arc transforms from romantic devotion into jealousy, madness, and ultimately tragedy.
8. 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?
My favorite role I’ve performed with San Diego Ballet has to be the Faun in Afternoon of a Faun. Looking ahead, I’d love the opportunity to perform Spanish in The Nutcracker. I’ve always really enjoyed the music for that section, and I think it would be a fun role to take on.
9. What is your favorite local spot in San Diego?
Cowles Mountain! I love the hike and the beautiful views across San Diego from the top. And if we’re talking food, my favorite local spot is hands down Island Spice. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed!