Dear Ballet Hispánico Community,
I am writing to share some sad news with you. Tina Ramirez, the beloved founder of Ballet Hispánico, died on September 6, peacefully and surrounded by loved ones. Throughout most of her 92 years, Tina’s artistic vision and tireless devotion to dance education and nurturing Latinx voices electrified all who were fortunate to know her, to work with her, and to ultimately share her love of the art form. I was one of those people and cherished her deeply as a mentor and friend.
Tina founded Ballet Hispánico in 1970 and served as its Artistic Director until 2009. During those years, she was instrumental in commissioning more than 45 choreographers to create works for the company; she masterminded our School of Dance; our Company performed for millions of people in three continents; and she exhibited the kindness that should always accompany hard work.
In 2005, Tina’s contributions to dance garnered her the National Medal of Arts, the nation’s highest cultural honor. This well-deserved award recognizing her commitment to access and cultural pride inspires all of us at Ballet Hispánico to continue our mission of bringing communities together to celebrate and explore Latino cultures through innovative dance productions, transformative dance training, and community engagement.
Tina’s invaluable legacy lives on in each of us through the millions of artists, students, and audiences she has inspired.
I will miss Tina immensely and extend my condolences to all who mourn her passing.
Mil gracias,
Eduardo Vilaro
Artistic Director & CEO