Prima Ballerinas 371

Elisa Carrillo Cabrera: A Star Born in Mexico Elisa Carrillo Cabrera, born in 1981 in Mexico City, is a ballet dancer who has captivated audiences worldwide with her extraordinary talent, grace, and resilience. From humble beginnings to conquering the stages of some of the world's most prestigious ballet companies, her journey is one that inspires and illuminates the transformative power of art and unwavering determination. A Spark Ignites in Mexico City Elisa's love affair with dance began at a young age, fostered by her mother, who recognised her daughter's natural ability and passion. She enrolled in the National Ballet School of Mexico, a beacon of dance education in the country. This marked the beginning of a rigorous yet rewarding journey that saw her immerse herself in the intricacies of classical ballet, honing her technique under the guidance of renowned instructors. The fire within her blossomed, fueled by the magic of ballet. It wasn’t long before her talent shone brightly, and she quickly rose through the ranks. A Move to Berlin: A New Chapter Elisa's meteoric rise didn’t go unnoticed. In 2007, she received a coveted invitation from the prestigious Staatsballett Berlin, a company with a rich history of fostering talent and showcasing world-class performances. It was a momentous decision - a move that would catapult her onto a global stage, but one that came with a profound personal shift. Moving to a new country and adapting to a new environment can be daunting for anyone, and for Elisa, it meant embracing a different language, culture, and way of life. But she was not deterred. Her resilience, fueled by her passion for dance, carried her through. It was in Berlin that she met her future husband, the German ballet dancer Robert Jones. They share a deep love of dance and understanding that strengthens and supports their bond. From Prima Ballerina to Guest Star In Berlin, Elisa found her artistic home. She quickly ascended to the prestigious role of Prima Ballerina, becoming the first Mexican dancer to achieve this title in the esteemed company. As the Prima Ballerina, Elisa was at the heart of the Staatsballett Berlin, taking centre stage in iconic roles from Giselle, to the Snow Queen in The Nutcracker, to the alluring Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. Elisa’s achievements went beyond the walls of the Staatsballett. She became a sought-after guest star, appearing on stages across the globe. From the imposing Teatro alla Scala in Milan to the glittering Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, she captivated audiences with her captivating artistry and captivating beauty. The Magic of Giselle Of all the roles she has danced, one stands out: Giselle. It has become an intrinsic part of her identity as an artist. Giselle, the young peasant girl who succumbs to heartbreak and dances to her death in a forest, has become a powerful metaphor for the vulnerability and strength that resides in us all. In Giselle, Elisa poured her heart and soul onto the stage, eliciting deep emotion from audiences around the world. This remarkable role ignited a connection between artist and audience. Returning to her Roots: The Elisa Carrillo Cabrera Foundation While her professional journey took her across the world, her Mexican heritage continued to guide her steps. She established the Elisa Carrillo Cabrera Foundation, a testament to her commitment to fostering talent in her home country. The foundation provides young dancers in Mexico with opportunities for training, scholarships, and international exposure, nurturing the next generation of talented dancers. The foundation is a vital link that connects the international stage with her roots. Finding Strength in Adversity Throughout her career, Elisa has faced many challenges. Her rise to prominence wasn’t without sacrifices and moments of self-doubt. But each hurdle she overcame only made her stronger, deepening her resolve and determination. There was also the ever-present pressure to maintain her stellar performances - a constant push for perfection, yet she faced these with unwavering courage and a tenacious spirit. Her Legacy - More Than just a Ballerina Elisa Carrillo Cabrera has transcended the role of just a dancer. She embodies an artist whose life has touched millions, a powerful figure whose artistry extends far beyond the dance floor. Her story speaks to the triumph of dedication, resilience, and the power of a dream that fuels a passion. She is an inspiration to generations to come. Awards and Recognition • Golden Dance Award 2010, The Great International Dance Award - Elisa became the first Mexican dancer to receive this prestigious award. • Award “Culture, Mexican Spirit” 2016 - an award recognising her outstanding work in the world of ballet and her dedication to her country. • Award “Ambassador of Dance for the People” 2020 – for her extraordinary artistic achievements and for serving as a bridge between different cultures through the language of dance. Her words on dance In her own words, Elisa expresses the depth of her connection to dance: “Ballet is a passion that defines my being. It's a powerful language, where every movement speaks volumes. I cherish every pirouette, every leap, every arabesque – for they are the stories we weave on stage, captivating hearts and minds.” Elisa's commitment to sharing her passion with the world transcends her role as a dancer. It resonates within the core of her work. Her dedication to inspiring the next generation and her artistry continues to shine on a global stage.