Jorge Arceo’s dance career began in the city of Havana, Cuba. At the age of nine, he was already honing his skills under the guidance of the esteemed Cuban dancer Narciso Medina. His early promise saw him through rigorous training at Escuela Provincial de Ballet, culminating in advanced studies at The National Ballet School.

 

By 18, Arceo earned a coveted spot with the National Contemporary Dance Company of Cuba, and he quickly rose to the position of first soloist, allowing him to perform for audiences in Cuba and around the world. His performances were not just limited to stages; he had the rare privilege of performing in a private studio setting for the legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov. He also had the privilege of working with renowned choreographers such as Mats Ek, Samir Akika, Rafael Bonachela, Cathy Marston, George Céspedes, and Jan Linkens. In addition, he shared the stage with some world-acclaimed dancers such as Carlos Acosta, Ana Laguna, Herman Cornejo, Rasta Thomas, and Miguel Altunaga among others.

 

Arceo’s move to the USA in 2009 marked a new chapter in his career. He performed with the Cuban Classical Ballet of Miami and Rio Hotel’s Las Vegas show, ND’S FUEGO. His journey took him next to Los Angeles, where he became a principal dancer for several renowned companies, including Pasadena Dance Theater, City of Angels Ballet, California Riverside Ballet, and the notable production Silent Roar choreographed by Zina Bethune. 

 

In 2014, Arceo joined the Tallahassee Ballet, where his role as a principal dancer has allowed him to collaborate with distinguished choreographers like Kathryn Karri Cashin, Christopher Huggins, Sarah Harkness, Trent D. Williams, and Anjali Austin. He performed both contemporary works and classical ballets such as Paquita, Swan Lake, La Bayadère, The Firebird, and The Nutcracker, where he danced lead and solo roles. Arceo’s time with the Tallahassee Ballet has been one of the most rewarding and joyful experiences of his professional career and he is excited for the future of the company.