Life & Work with Raydel Caceres of Santa Monica

Today we’d like to introduce you to Raydel Caceres.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born in Cuba, where I began my ballet training at the age of 8 at the Escuela de Artes Raúl Sánchez. From the very beginning, the training was rigorous and disciplined, and it shaped not only my technique but also my mindset. Ballet quickly became more than something I loved—it became my path.

Over the years, my journey has taken me far beyond where I started. I’ve had the opportunity to perform internationally and build a career as a professional ballet dancer, and today I continue performing at a high level with a touring company. Living and working between cities like New York and Los Angeles, my life has been defined by constant movement, growth, and dedication to my craft.

Behind the stage, the journey has not always been easy. Like many artists, I’ve faced financial challenges, instability, and the responsibility of supporting my family while maintaining the physical and mental demands of this career. Continuing to perform into my 40s has required resilience, discipline, and a deep belief in myself.

What keeps me going is the passion I feel every time I step on stage—and the belief that no matter where you come from, with discipline and heart, you can create a life that once felt impossible

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many artists, my journey has come with a lot of challenges—both professionally and personally.

Financial instability has been a constant reality in this career, especially while trying to maintain a high level of performance and support my family. There have been moments of uncertainty between contracts, the physical demands of the body, and the pressure to keep evolving as an artist.

More recently, life brought unexpected challenges outside of dance as well. The Palisades fire affected my living situation, creating stress and instability at a time when I was already balancing a demanding touring schedule. Situations like that remind you how quickly things can change, and how important it is to stay grounded and adaptable.

There have also been the quieter struggles—the mental discipline it takes to keep going, to stay motivated, and to believe in yourself even when things feel uncertain.

But all of these challenges have shaped me. They’ve made me stronger, more focused, and more grateful for every opportunity I have to step on stage and do what I love.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a professional ballet dancer specializing in classical technique, character work, and performance. I perform internationally with a touring company, which has allowed me to bring ballet to diverse audiences around the world. My work is rooted in discipline, precision, and storytelling—I don’t just focus on technique, but on connecting with the audience and bringing each role to life.

What I’m most proud of is my longevity in this career. Continuing to perform at a high level into my 40s is something I don’t take for granted. It requires constant dedication, physical care, and mental strength. I’ve learned how to evolve with my body and stay relevant as an artist over time.

I’m also proud of the journey behind the scenes—building a career from humble beginnings in Cuba and creating opportunities internationally through hard work and persistence.

What sets me apart is my resilience and my perspective. I bring not only technical skill, but life experience to my performances. I understand struggle, discipline, and sacrifice, and that depth translates into the way I move and perform. I also have a strong connection with audiences, whether on stage or through teaching, because I approach my work with authenticity and heart

What were you like growing up?
Growing up in Cuba, I was very focused and disciplined from a young age. Once I entered ballet school at 8, my life quickly became structured around training, and I took it very seriously. I wasn’t the kind of kid who had a lot of free time or typical childhood activities—most of my energy went into becoming a dancer.

At the same time, I was very curious and observant. I paid attention to everything around me, and I think that helped shape me not only as a dancer but as a person. I’ve always had a strong sense of responsibility, especially toward my family, which influenced many of my choices early on.

I was also a dreamer. Even at a young age, I felt that there was something bigger out there for me, beyond where I was. Ballet became the way I could express myself and also a path to create a different future.

Looking back, I think I was a mix of discipline and imagination—very serious about my goals, but always holding on to a sense of hope and possibility.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @raydel_caceres_ballet
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raydel.caceres.5?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: @Raydelballet

Image Credits

Solomon Malobay