Florencia Paez Espinosa

Dancer

Born in Monterrey (Mexiko). Studied at Escuela Superior de Musica y Danza de Monterrey and at John Cranko School in Stuttgart. Has worked with Stuttgarter Ballett. Member of the NRW Junior Ballet since 2020.

Where are you from? Tell us about your home town or your family…
I am from Monterrey, a big industrial city in Mexico. I cherish this city because it is where I was born and grew up. My mom is very loving and a great supporter of my career, and my dad is hardworking, funny and caring. My sister, who is an artist in her own way, is an amazing designer, and my brother is wise and is always there when I need him.

When did you start to train ballet? What was your motivation to start ballet? Is there any story behind?
I started dancing ballet when I was 5 years old. Whenever I would see a ballerina on TV or my mom would take me to see a performance, I would get really excited about it and tell my mom that I wanted to dance in pointe shoes as well. I was also a very hyperactive little girl, so my mom decided to sign me in dance lessons where I could use all of my extra energy.

What has been your most special moment in your dance career? Is there any moment you don’t want to miss?
It is hard to think of only one special moment, as there are so many. From getting accepted into the professional ballet school in Mexico, to receiving my first standing ovation, there are countless memories I hold dear within my past. However, I must say that my graduating performance with the John Cranko Schule is my most special moment, because I shared the stage with all of my friends doing what I love to end the chapter in my life as a ballet student.

How would you describe yourself? Where do you see yourself? In private and as an artist…
I am extroverted, perseverant, and goal oriented while trying to have maximum enjoyment in the process. As an artist, I am highly committed to giving the best of me in every performance through hard work and dedication.

What has been your first experience in Dortmund? Why did you choose to come to Germany?
The audition for the company was my first experience in Dortmund. I enjoyed it every step of the way; it was challenging but the adrenaline helped me with the nerves and excitement I was feeling at the time. In the end it was all worth it, and I am very happy to have been accepted into the Junior Company.

What is your dream? Any role or piece you would love to dance ones in your life?
Coming from a big city in Mexico, I was fortunate enough to have a great studio to train with. However, I know there are many others in my country who do not have the same opportunity. I aspire to bring an appreciation for arts and culture to the broader communities in Mexico, and make ballet and other dance training more accessible.
A role that I would love to dance once in my life is Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux choreographed by George Balanchine. It is energetic, elegant, and technically and artistically very demanding.

Beside Dance – what are you interested in? Which profession would be interesting for you, if you hadn’t become a professional dancer? Or what’s your favourite way to spend your free time?
In my free time I like to spend time with my friends, listen to music and travel to see different cities. If I had to choose a different path for my life, I would have liked to pursue a higher education and specialize in foreign service and diplomacy.


NRW Juniorballett