José Barraza

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José Barraza is a native of El Paso, Texas. He was introduced to the world of dance at the age of seventeen. He formed part of a local dance studio under the direction of Monica Hernandez, where he competed in several dance competitions around the nation. He later attended the University of Texas at El Paso where he was able to train under Andree Harper, Lisa Smith, Myron Naydel, Emily Morgan, Andrea Vazquez-Aguirre, Ouisa Davis and Rafael Chávez. José performed in faculty concerts being cast in lead roles in "Pachuco Zoot: A Tale of Identity" and "The Trials of Pobrero El Campesino". While at UT El Paso, he also danced in several student choreographies including "Goodnight Kiss" and "Let Freedom Ring" choreographed by Artistic Director, Rafael Chávez. José went on to receive a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance from University of Texas at El Paso in 2014. During his time dancing, he has attended workshops like American College Dance Association and Danzas Sin Fronteras; having the chance to take classes with Elizabeth Gillaspy, Deborah Knapp and Andy Noble.