As a universal language, dance transcends borders and cultures, promoting a vibrant exchange of creative energy. This principle is at the heart of an upcoming workshop hosted by Victor Zarallo and Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, two respected figures in the international dance world. Selected pre-professional dancers will enjoy an unforgettable feast that will lay the foundation for their international careers.
Victor Zarallo was born in Barcelona in 1988 and has a rich pedigree from the Theater Academy (Barcelona), the John Cranko Ballet School (Stuttgart) and the Royal Ballet School (London). His journey saw him rise through the ranks with Scottish Ballet and Sydney Dance Company. Now a sought-after teacher and choreographer at Sydney’s top schools, he not only imparts his expertise as a certified teacher at the Royal Academy of Dance, but also mentors students at Sydney Dance Company, Bangarra Dance Theater and Tanya, among others. , Brent Street, AMPA, Newcastle National Dance Academy, Newtown High School and Northern Dance Academy, and has been a guest teacher at Rose Marii Dance Studio in Sendai, Japan.
Annabelle Lopez Ochoa is a versatile Belgian-Colombian choreographer who has created more than 100 works for 79 renowned dance companies around the world. Her narrative ballets, including recent works such as holy karas Municipal Ballet of Santiago de Chile and Coco Chanel She has performed with the Hong Kong Ballet, Atlanta Ballet and Queensland Ballet, underscoring her profound impact on the dance world.
An outstanding educator, she has collaborated with institutions such as the European Ballet School (Netherlands), the Joffrey Ballet Trainee, the Conservatoire National de Dance in Paris and the Paluka School in Dresden (Germany). Lopez Ochoa is one of the busiest choreographers in the world (quoted by Wendy Perron, Dance Magazine 2016).
Zalallo and Lopez Ochoa embody the ultimate in artistic collaboration and direction. Their workshops are dedicated to inspiring creativity and refining technique so that the next generation of dancers can thrive in the ever-evolving global dance landscape.
Please join Dance Informa for our exclusive interview to learn more about this special event.
Victor, can you tell us about your work with Annabelle and what this experience means for young dancers?
“My relationship with Annabelle began in 2010 when she attended a choreography workshop with Scottish Ballet. In 2012 she created ‘ A Streetcar Named Desirethe work remains a huge success and widely performed. Our connection remains and I deeply admire her both personally and professionally.
I am extremely honored to have Annabelle work with a selection of students from dance schools across Sydney. This collaboration provides a unique opportunity for young Australian dancers to interact with world-renowned choreographers without having to travel overseas, which often comes with considerable financial pressure. Bringing Annabelle to Sydney provides an excellent opportunity for these students to gain valuable experience and exposure in their home country.
The workshop will be held on August 17 at Duti Studios in Newtown. This platform promotes their artistic development and bridges the gap between dance opportunities in Australia and those in Europe and the United States.
Annabelle, these selected students will be exposed to world-class choreographers and learn about professional life. What words of wisdom do you have for them?
“Embrace hard work and its ups and downs as part of a rewarding journey. Don’t expect instant results or perfection. Instead, aim for daily growth, strengthening, evolution, and transformation. Celebrate every step forward and know that Every challenge is an opportunity to become better, stronger, and more inspired.
Victor, what makes these workshops and collaborations critical for a pre-professional career?
“This workshop run by Annabelle is vital for young dancers transitioning into their careers. It allows them to develop essential skills such as clear communication and the ability to interpret and convey a choreographic vision – skills that are highly valued by major companies .
Additionally, this experience will increase their emotional intelligence and introduce them to a new movement language, preparing them to meet the high demands of the professional dance world.
Annabelle, as a prolific, award-winning and highly sought-after choreographer, how would you describe your approach to creating your work?
“I always strive to strike a balance between being fully prepared and completely spontaneous and present with the dancers in front of me. I spend a lot of time conceptualizing my work. I delve deeply into the theme and overall vision of the piece, ensuring I have a solid foundation and clear direction. This approach allows me to create ballets that are rich in structure but imbued with the immediacy and freshness of creativity. It’s a delicate dance between control and freedom.
Victor, can you share the structure of the workshop and what you hope students will take away from their experience?
“The workshop will begin with a 45-minute warm-up led by myself, followed by a 3-hour session focusing on Annabelle’s repertoire, particularly flower of light. The dancers, who have already learned parts of the repertoire through classes at various dance schools, will have the opportunity to study the piece in more depth. The workshop will conclude with a Q&A session, allowing participants to interact directly with Annabelle and benefit from her wealth of experience and insights.
I want students to have a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impression on their careers. Working with someone as talented as Annabelle provides us with valuable insights into the world of professional dance. My goal is to give them a feel for what it’s like to operate at a professional level, even if it’s just for a day, to give them a clearer idea of what to expect when they eventually join the company.
Annabelle, with an outstanding international image, your arrival will add luster to Australia. Can you tell us about the projects and workshops you will be conducting here?
“I’m delighted to be performing my narrative ballet with Queensland Ballet. Coco Chanel, the life of a fashion icon. Co-produced by Queensland Ballet and created by Hong Kong Ballet, the work was performed at Atlanta Ballet last February. I’m excited to see how the company’s dancers interpret the characters and how audiences respond to the work in a new cultural context.
Victor, please describe Annabelle’s talents and what makes her stand out on the world stage.
“Annabelle’s talent lies in her extraordinary ability to convey powerful narratives through contemporary movement. Her unique way of communicating with her dancers allows them to incorporate their own emotional journeys into the choreography. Each of her pieces is crafted with care , makes clear, intentional decisions that resonate deeply with performers and audiences alike. Her work is renowned for its deep emotional connection and ability to engage audiences with the action on stage. She left a lasting impression, making her an unforgettable and influential dance figure.
Annabelle has successfully created over 100 works and 14 narrative ballets for 79 dance companies around the world, what’s next for you?
“I’m delighted to be invited to create a new work carmen Miami City Ballet. also, Frida This season will premiere in the United States. I am reimagining the production with a smaller cast of 30 dancers so that more companies around the world can perform. my narrative ballet Vendetta (take godfather) will be revived at the Grand Ballet of Canada in February, and later this season I will create a new short work for Atlanta Ballet.
Victor, regarding future collaborations, can you tell us what’s coming next or where to find information?
“Of course! This workshop with Annabelle is just the beginning, and I plan to continue offering similar, unique opportunities to bridge the gap between pre-professional and professional dance. For updates on future events, check out my website, email victorzarallo.mu@gmail.com or follow me on Instagram @victorzarallo.
Created by Renata Ogayar of Dance Informa.
