Conversations with Jesus Luviano

Today, We’d Like to Introduce: A Holiday Journey with Dancer & Producer Jesus Luviano – The Nutcracker Unwrapped.

Thank you. My journey began in a small rural community in the state of Michoacán, Mexico. It was a place full of love, but also limitations—especially when it came to education and creative opportunities. Most people didn’t study beyond elementary school, and dreaming beyond that felt like a luxury.

My family worked in agriculture, and I grew up witnessing the sacrifices they made every day. That grounded me. It taught me about discipline and resilience. But everything changed when I met a teacher who introduced me to the world of folkloric dance. That single moment sparked something powerful. It gave me a sense of direction and hope—and it planted the seed that would eventually grow into a lifelong pursuit of the arts.

When did you realize you wanted to turn that passion for dance into something more?

That realization came after moving to the United States. The transition was tough—culturally, linguistically, and emotionally. But dance helped me adapt. I got involved in school performances and eventually became the choreographer for a large student-led production. That role helped me find my voice and feel connected in a new environment.

I poured my energy into both the arts and education. I became involved in projects that raised scholarship funds and elevated student involvement. That experience helped build my leadership skills, and it reminded me that creativity could be a bridge—not just to opportunities, but to community and impact.

Would you say your path has been a smooth one?

Not at all. My path has been filled with challenges—cultural barriers, financial limitations, and personal setbacks. There were moments when it felt like I was right on the edge of something amazing, but still blocked by circumstances I couldn’t control.

One of the hardest parts was navigating the world of education and career opportunities with so many restrictions around me. I had the grades, the ambition, and the passion—but sometimes it felt like doors were closed before I even had the chance to knock.

Still, I stayed committed. I worked multiple jobs while pursuing dance training in classical ballet, contemporary, and modern styles. My schedule was packed—early mornings, rehearsals, classes, and late-night shifts. But I never gave up. Dance gave me purpose, and I leaned into that, no matter how exhausted I was.

How did your ballet journey begin to take shape professionally?

Everything shifted when I started training more seriously and auditioned for ballet companies in California. That’s when I earned the opportunity to perform in The Nutcracker. Taking the stage in that production was a dream come true. The choreography, the storytelling, the atmosphere—it was like stepping into a living fairytale.

I played various roles and experienced every aspect of the performance, from principal sequences to ensemble work. Each pirouette, each breath on stage, was a way of expressing everything I had gone through to get there.

For readers who may not be familiar with it, what makes The Nutcracker so special—both for audiences and for dancers like yourself?

The Nutcracker is pure magic. It’s a story that transcends generations. At its heart is Clara, a young girl who receives a wooden nutcracker on Christmas Eve. That night, she dreams of a fantastical world where the Nutcracker comes to life, fights off a Mouse King, and whisks her away through snowy forests to the Land of Sweets. It’s in that world that dancers get to portray characters like the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Cavalier, and so many other enchanting roles.

As a dancer, it’s an incredibly fulfilling production. The choreography is demanding, but every moment is full of emotion and precision. The Pas de Deux between the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier, for example, is one of the most beautiful expressions of grace and strength you can experience on stage.

For me personally, The Nutcracker was more than a show—it was a celebration of how far I’d come and a tribute to my family, my roots, and the sacrifices that helped me reach that stage.

You’ve also worked behind the scenes. How did that come about?

I’ve always been fascinated by the full scope of a production. While performing was my main focus, I also took on backstage responsibilities—like stage management and production logistics. That experience gave me a more complete understanding of the industry and how many moving parts go into a successful performance.

Those skills eventually led to opportunities beyond ballet—into fashion, TV, and live entertainment production. It was a natural evolution. I realized I could blend my eye for movement and storytelling with production management, which opened a whole new path for my career.

What’s your focus now, and how would you describe what you do?

I’m currently a Fashion Show Producer with a background rooted in performance. My focus is on bringing artistic vision to life through thoughtful production, whether that’s on a runway, stage, or red carpet. I specialize in integrating dance elements into fashion shows and managing both the creative and logistical sides of live events.

My work has included large-scale productions at fashion weeks, collaborations with major designers, and even contributions to television and film projects. Each project is different, but the common thread is always about creating a memorable experience for the audience.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

What I’m most proud of is the journey itself—being able to turn a passion into a profession while staying true to my values. Coming from a humble background, I never imagined I’d be producing high-profile events, working with major brands, or being featured in publications like Fashionista and Milan Weekly.

I’ve had the honor of working on major fashion shows, managing concerts at iconic venues, and collaborating with incredible artists and performers. But beyond the accolades, what makes me proud is that everything I do still reflects the values I grew up with—hard work, humility, and community.

What do you think sets you apart in your field?

I think it’s my belief in collaboration and the importance of lifting others up. I don’t approach my work with an ego. I see myself as someone who builds spaces for people to shine—whether that’s a dancer, a model, or a designer.

I’ve learned that success isn’t just about your own achievements; it’s about the people you help along the way. I work hard to create an environment where everyone feels seen and supported. This industry isn’t just about talent—it’s about teamwork, trust, and passion.

You’ve had some incredible collaborations. Can you share a bit about those experiences?

Absolutely. I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible artists across different industries—from actors like Morgan Freeman and Johnny Depp to music icons like Billie Eilish, Sia, Dolly Parton, and Christina Aguilera. I’ve also contributed to large-scale productions like The Ellen DeGeneres Show and worked on red carpet events and fashion weeks nationwide.

Each collaboration has taught me something different, and I’m always grateful for the creativity, diversity, and energy those moments bring.

You’re also passionate about giving back. What does that look like for you today?

Giving back is a huge part of my life. I mentor young dancers, models, and aspiring creatives—especially those who come from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds. I want them to know that their past doesn’t define their future. There’s room for everyone in this industry, no matter where they come from.

It’s incredibly fulfilling to help someone find their voice or take their first step toward a dream. I try to pass along the same encouragement and support I received when I needed it most.

What does happiness mean to you these days?

Happiness, for me, is rooted in connection. It’s the time I spend with family and friends—the laughter, the shared meals, the quiet moments. Those are the memories that matter most.

A huge influence in my life was my grandmother, whose wisdom continues to guide me. She taught me that love is shown in actions, not just words. Her strength and selflessness still shape how I move through the world. I carry those lessons with me in everything I do.

Traveling with loved ones, sharing new experiences, and creating beautiful memories—those moments remind me why I do what I do.

Looking back, what message do you hope people take from your story?

I hope people see that with dedication and belief, dreams really can take flight. This summer, I returned to my hometown in Michoacán and was surrounded by family and friends. It was a full-circle moment that reminded me how far I’ve come—and how deeply rooted I still am.

Dance taught me how to tell stories without words, and now I use my work to inspire others to dream bigger, push past their limits, and believe in the power of their own journey. No matter where you start, there’s always a way forward. The stage of life is vast, and there’s room for all of us to shine.

 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: IG: @JLuvi
• Facebook: FB: Jesus Luviano

Image Credits
Central Califonia Ballet Dance Company (All Performance Photos)
Shirley Winters Ballet Studio (Training Photos)
Jose Luis Manriquez Barragan RETURNING TO MEXICO From Left-Right: Jesus L, Beto L, Maryuli A, Lizarely D, Alma Ireri D, Norma Yuridia A.