Ballet AZ Blog

Company Connection: Tiffany Chatfield & Luis Javier Corrales

Tiffany Chatfield. Photo by Ron Brewer Images.

TIFFANY CHATFIELD

Hometown: Alexandria, Virginia
Joined Ballet Arizona: 2019

What inspired you to become a dancer?

As a young student, I thought my dance classes were a great way to express myself and spend time with friends. It wasn’t until I left my home studio to train at The HARID Conservatory that I realized my passion for ballet in particular. I remember coming home from the summer intensive, and begging my mom to let me study there year-round. The constant attention to detail and the beauty of putting your heart into each movement is really why I wanted to continue onto a professional level.

What is your favorite ballet?

One of my favorite ballets is Christopher Wheeldon’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland because it has a great balance of classical ballet and humorous themes for the audience to enjoy. The costumes and sets for this ballet mimic the bizarre style that Disney used in the animated film. Christopher Wheeldon’s ballets After the Rain and This Bitter Earth are two other honorable mentions.

How are you keeping busy and staying in shape while at home?

I’ve been keeping my lifestyle focused on my career in ballet. Doing strengthening exercises and online ballet classes, as well as eating a well-balanced diet, are important in maintaining a toned physique. Within my workout routine, I’ve been taking time to make goals for Ballet Arizona’s 2020-2021 season. I still have downtime throughout the day, which I fill by painting, keeping up with chores around my apartment, or watching videos that inspire me as an artist.

Any current TV show/movie/book obsessions?

I haven’t started any new shows, because Netflix hasn’t had a lot that interests me recently, but I enjoy watching Disney/Pixar movies when I have nothing else going on. Coco is a movie that I’ll never get sick of.

If you could be any animal in the world, what would you be?

If I could be any animal, I would probably be a red fox. They’re so cute and agile. I also just think it’s cool that they look like they’re wearing socks all the time.

Who is your go to musical artist?

I listen to Tame Impala when I’m painting or just wanting some music to aid in a chill, but upbeat vibe. It puts me in a good mood.

Luis Javier Corrales. Photo by Ron Brewer Images.

LUIS JAVIER CORRALES

Hometown: Havana, Cuba
Joined Ballet Arizona: 2019

What inspired you to become a dancer?

My mom says I was born a dancer. Every time music played my feet would’ve start moving automatically. I remember that I used to get on top of my grandma’s dining table and give a dance show for everyone in the room. My parents prepared me and took me to the Cuban National Ballet School audition and that’s how everything started. It was difficult for me to understand the rigorous ballet technique at the beginning, but once I did it became my everything.

What is your dream role to perform?

William Forsythe’s In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated. I’ve always been a big fan of Forsythe’s choreography. But this piece especially, it’s the sharp and electric score that he used and the extravagant way in which each movement unfolds. It electrifies me every time I see it.

How are you keeping busy and staying in shape while at home?

I’m trying to keep myself busy with school, I’m studying to become an Interior Designer. Im also taking ballet barre every day and working out every other day to keep my body in shape.

What is your favorite place you have traveled to?

Cuba is my favorite place to visit since I stopped living there 7 years ago.  In addition to the fact that I love visiting my family, Cuba is a country that has it all.  Amazing beaches, special cities, and best of all, its people.

Do you have any hidden talents?

Besides being a pop star in my shower, I’m trying to learn photography.

Any current TV show/movie/book obsessions?

So many TV shows!!! But right now Good Girls, Elite, and Money Heist on Netflix are the ones that got me hooked. I also can’t wait for the new season of Euphoria on HBO.
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