Miami Hispanic Ballet

The Miami Hispanic Ballet (MHB) is a non-profit dance organization founded in 1993 with a mission to champion professional dance artists of Hispanic descent in Miami-Dade County. Recognizing the need to showcase and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of their community, the MHB dedicated itself to identifying and nurturing talent while providing opportunities for growth and exposure.

Beyond its focus on nurturing local talent, the MHB has played a pivotal role as a producer and presenter of world-class ballet performances. The dedication to artistic excellence led to the creation of the Annual International Ballet Festival of Miami, a groundbreaking event that quickly garnered recognition as one of the most successful ballet festivals in the United States. As the only festival of its kind in Florida, the MHB's creation has provided residents and visitors alike with a unique opportunity to experience a diverse range of local, national, and international ballet artistry.

The International Ballet Festival of Miami (IBFM)

Each year, the IBFM transforms Miami into a vibrant hub of classical ballet, drawing renowned dancers, companies, and audiences from around the globe. Held in the heart of Miami from late July through mid-August, the festival features a diverse program of awe-inspiring performances by over 100 principal dancers representing more than 20 distinguished ballet companies.

The IBFM is much more than just a showcase of impressive footwork and athleticism. It's a celebration of the universal language of dance, encompassing a wide range of styles and interpretations. Audiences can expect to be captivated by the artistry of companies from Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the USA, many making their highly anticipated U.S. debut.

The festival's impact extends beyond the stage, fostering cultural exchange and enriching the Miami community. It provides invaluable exposure for local dance and ballet companies, allowing them to share the stage alongside some of the world's most celebrated dancers, creating a platform for growth and inspiration.

The IBFM is deeply rooted in the tradition of recognizing and honoring exceptional contributions to the world of dance. Each year, the festival presents two prestigious awards: "A Life for Dance" Lifetime Achievement Award and "Criticism and Culture of Ballet." "A Life for Dance" is one of the most esteemed honors awarded to dance professionals worldwide, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding and lasting contributions to the art form.

The "Criticism and Culture of Ballet" Award celebrates the vital role of dance criticism in shaping public perception and understanding of ballet. The IBFM's commitment to these awards further solidifies its position as a leading international platform for acknowledging and celebrating the artistry and scholarship within the ballet world.

The Miami Hispanic Cultural Arts Center

The MHB's commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of Miami reached a significant milestone with the establishment of the Miami Hispanic Cultural Arts Center (MHCAC). In 2011, the MHB received a substantial grant from Miami-Dade County Cultural Affairs Council, allowing for the purchase of the MHCAC's home, a magnificent 1911 Miami Landmark building known as the J.W. Warner Place, House and Garden.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this beautifully preserved colonial-style building, also featured in the book "Remaking America, " is a testament to Miami's rich architectural heritage.

Located in the heart of Miami, between the Miami River, Downtown, and Brickell, the MHCAC offers a unique setting for dance performances, exhibitions, workshops, and masterclasses. As a vibrant cultural hub, the MHCAC serves as a testament to the MHB's dedication to preserving and promoting the art of dance while fostering cultural understanding and community engagement.

The MHCAC's future holds exciting plans for expansion, with architect Omar A. Morales designing state-of-the-art ballet studios and a black box theatre to complement the existing historic building. This ambitious project will create a dynamic center for dance education, performance, and artistic exploration, further solidifying the Miami Hispanic Ballet's legacy as a driving force in the vibrant cultural landscape of Miami.