Artist Stories | Guillem Cabrera Espinach
Guillem Cabrera Espinach, a former Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet Studio Company dancer, was promoted to the Company in 2024.
Although his Chicago career debut was with Cathy Martson's Atonement, his first professional performance was in 2016 at the Royal Ballet and Opera's premiere of Liam Scarlett's Frankenstein. Guillem danced the role of William, Victor Frankenstein's younger brother.
"Dancing in the original production of Frankenstein by Liam Scarlett was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Experiencing the process of a masterpiece coming to life and working with talented professionals was an inspiration," said Guillem.
We sat down with Guillem to reflect on what brought him to Chicago, his experience thus far as a professional dancer, and what he hopes for the future.
Tell us about yourself.
I grew up in Manresa, a small town near Barcelona, Spain, and began dancing at the age of three. Very quickly, I discovered my passion. It didn't take long for me to realize that I wanted to pursue dance as a career. I auditioned for The Royal Ballet School in London in 2015, where I attended for 8 years. Before graduating in 2023, I also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Classical Ballet and Dance Performance with First Class Honors from Roehampton University.
What brought you to the Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet?
In my final year at The Royal Ballet School, I began auditioning for ballet companies and second companies around the world. Growing up, I always imagined staying in Europe, where my family is. It's where I've spent my whole life. However, when the time came to take the next step in my professional journey, I broadened my horizons. I considered the possibility of moving across the world to follow my dreams.
I admired The Joffrey Ballet and its repertoire for many years, and I saw it as a place where I could reach my full potential. When I discovered that the Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet was holding auditions in London, I knew I had to go. They offered me a position with the Studio Company program, and to this day, I couldn't be happier with my decision. It was exactly where I was meant to be.
The Studio Company was the ideal next step for me. After eight years in a vocational school, I wasn't ready to jump into a professional company. So, following my audition with the Joffrey, I was thrilled to be offered a spot in the Grainger Academy's Studio Company. I knew I wanted to be part of the Company one day, but I also recognized that I needed to grow as an artist before taking on that title.
Dancing with the Studio Company allowed me to continue my training while gaining valuable experience working occasionally with the Joffrey Company. The faculty is amazing; they provided support and guidance while allowing me to learn how to care for myself as a professional dancer. It was a year of growth, both technically and personally.
You've been in the Company for almost a year. What have you learned?
I learned so much about myself and discovered how to use my technique as a tool to deepen my artistry and performance. I also realized just how important community is. A supportive environment where everyone lifts each other up has improved my confidence. Surrounding myself with people who celebrate each other's accomplishments is the most encouraging.
Tell us your favorite aspect of Company life.
The variety of repertoire we get to perform! Joffrey's diversity of styles expands my horizons and challenges me in the best possible way. There are techniques I haven't had the chance to explore before. Pushing the limitations I didn't even know I had is incredibly rewarding. As dancers, it's easy to place ourselves in a box or stick to what we know, but real growth comes from stepping outside our comfort zone.
How do you hope to grow at the Joffrey? Is there anything you're most excited about?
To grow into the best version of myself, both on and off the stage. I may not know what that version looks like yet, but I can get there with the guidance and support of the incredible community here at the Joffrey. I'm also most excited about all the memories I'll create with my colleagues: friendships, performances, and shared moments. I'm especially looking forward to our upcoming three-week tour in South Carolina and all the bonding that will come with it.
What's been your favorite part about living in Chicago?
Chicago is full of life, with an abundance of opportunities. There's always something happening. New places to explore, unique markets to visit, and neighborhoods with distinct character. I've loved discovering the city's personality through each season. It's incredible how it transforms throughout the year, always offering new beauty and energy. Chicago is a place that never stops inspiring.
See more of Guillem here!