Claire Torres

Claire Torres began her early dance training at the American Ballet School under the directorship of former New York City Ballet dancer Linda Yourth. In Junior High she attended The School of Creative and Performing Arts where she was exposed to many diferent dance styles. In her senior year of high school Claire was invited to train with the prestigious San Francisco Ballet. Upon graduation Claire danced a season with Ballet Iowa before joining the Richmond Ballet of Virginia directed by Stoner Winslett. During her six years at Richmond Ballet Claire danced many principal roles in ballets such as The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, Giselle, Swan Lake, and Coppelia. She also had the opportunity to perform many famous ballets by George Balanchine including Apollo, Valse Fantasie, Who Cares, and Concerto Barocco. Claire was fortunate to be able to work with many contemporary choreographers as well. Some of her favorite pieces include Mauricio Wainrot’s From Far Away, Val Caniparoli’s Bow Out, and William Soleau’s Tandem Spaces. Claire also had the opportunity to perform works by Eliot Feld, Jose’ Limon, Anthony Tudor, and Kurt Joos to name a few.

In 1999 Claire returned to San Diego with her husband to raise her family. She began teaching for San Diego Ballet where she taught the professional company and students of all ages. She also taught company classes for California Ballet and was a guest artist for The City Ballet of San Diego. In 2010 Claire began choreographing for the MADCAPS organization where she works with 7-12th grade girls on a yearly philanthropic performance.

Claire has taught and choreographed in the San Diego community for over 25 years and has coached many dancers to compete in several competitions and performances. Claire is a passionate and dedicated teacher that brings her love of musicality and keen attention to detail to every class.