DECEMBER 28, 2023 – Seattle, WA — Jonathan Batista Awarded Entertainer of the Year 2023: A Trailblazing Ballet Journey

Jonathan Batista, the pioneering Black Principal Dancer at the Pacific Northwest Ballet, adds another accolade to his illustrious career.

Awarded the prestigious Entertainer of the Year 2023 title by POCAAN, Batista’s triumph arrives a year after his historic elevation as the first Black Principal in the ballet company’s history.

In a year filled with remarkable achievements, Batista graced the stage in pivotal roles. His portrayal of Oberon in George Balanchine’s "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and his debut as Count Albert in the ballet classic "Giselle" highlighted the significance of Black representation in narrative ballets.

However, Batista's influence extends far beyond his performances. In a philanthropic endeavor, he successfully fundraised for a dance school in Rio de Janeiro's City of God and offered support to a non-profit dance institution in Tacoma, WA, echoing his commitment to community empowerment.

Jonathan Batista - Photo by Angela Sterlin

The award, presented by Ernest Walker of POCAAN, praised Batista's dedication and transformative impact on the ballet landscape: - "His unwavering commitment to his craft, his hard work, and his passion, the sheer brilliance to his bringing to the stage as the First. Jonathan has not only made a name for himself, but he has also become an inspiration for aspiring dancers everywhere. His journey is a testament of power, to making sure that if you believe it and you do it, and you work hard, you can achieve it!"

In his gracious acceptance speech, Batista underscored the significance of representation in the arts: - “This award holds immense meaning for me. Throughout my journey, community has been an invaluable gift. It's made me feel embraced, empowered, and encouraged to pursue my dreams. At times in my ballet journey, I've

felt like a trailblazer, navigating spaces where I didn't see representation and lacking the support I needed. However, this experience taught me to draw strength from within, to find my voice and stand for the change I wanted to see.”

Batista's relentless pursuit of advancement and inclusivity within the ballet sphere illuminates a path for future generations, echoing his commitment to championing diversity and representation in the performing arts.

Jonathan Batista's next ventures in the ballet world encompass his reprisal of Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake and his eagerly anticipated debut as Franz in Coppelia.

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