Maria Torres, Nominated for the Dance Magazine Award 2023

In the spotlight this week is an exceptional talent - Maria Torres, who continues to inspire the dance community. Read on to discover why this dance icon has earned the Dance Magazine Award.

The Energy of Torres' Choreography

Maria Torres radiates the same energy whether she is in front of the class, in the director's chair, or focusing on future projects. It is an energy infused with technical precision and determination, characteristic of her work as deeply rooted, clear, and vital. And the exciting news is that she is determined to continue sharing these gifts with the world. "I have always been the secret weapon of others," she shares with a smile. "From now on, I am my own sneaky superpower."

A Career Full of Joy

Torres' impressive career spans a wide range of media, with all her projects infused with an undercurrent of joy. From her performances in the film "Dance with Me" (1998) and the Broadway musical "Swing!" (1999) to her choreographies for the off-Broadway production "Four Guys Named Jose..." (2000) and contributions to films like "Enchanted" (2007) and "Idlewild" (2006), as well as Broadway's "On Your Feet!" (2015). Torres gained wider recognition through her work on "So You Think You Can Dance" and collaborations with Latin music icons Don Omar and Enrique Iglesias.

Pioneer of Dance Styles

Maria Torres has not only enriched the dance world with her artistic contributions but has also played a crucial role in shaping globally practiced dance techniques. Drawing from her Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Cuban roots, she pioneered Latin jazz - a fusion of Latin rhythmic movement with jazz fundamentals, now taught worldwide. Additionally, she has been a significant voice in spreading Latin hustle and remains a fervent advocate for the genre. Recently, she documented her experiences with the hustle during a residency with the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, reflecting on the heyday of club dance and its subsequent transformations.

Influence on New Generations

In addition to her impressive list of achievements, Maria Torres has had a profound influence on a new generation. Her classes and workshops have inspired countless students. Not limited to the choreographer's chair, she has ventured into directing and co-designing projects that place Latin voices at the forefront. With her Maria Torres Emerging Artists Foundation, she has contributed to the training and creation of space for emerging artists, with special attention to those who are often marginalized.

Dedication to Giving Back

"As an educator, producer, choreographer, director, an advocate for our people and the performing arts in general, it has been a lifelong journey for me to always give back and never forget where I come from," Torres shares. "Now that I have the opportunity to spread joy and knowledge, I am only going to do more."

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*Curious about the story of Maria Torres and other dance legends? Discover more in the original article [DANCE MAGAZINE AWARDS: A Tribute to Dance Legends].*